Doolittle Raid
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The operational concept
No carrier-based aircraft of the time had the range to attack Japan from what was considered a safe striking distance. A concept was developed, probably originated by CAPT Francis Low of the Navy Staff, to launch U.S. Army medium bombers from a carrier. These bombers could not land on the carrier, but, with special procedures, could take off from one. The plan was that they would land in China after the raid, continuing west after they bombed Japan.
Two aircraft, the B-25 Mitchell and the B-26 Marauder, were available; the B-25 was selected because it needed less distance for takeoff.
LTC James Doolittle was selected to lead the raid.