Recently in a 4v4 game, one of my allies eventually built a second fleet that comprised of nothing but tons of scouts and light carriers. After reading bits on the forums, I would guess that the scouts would function primarily as meat shields for the carriers, and I cannot surmise any other advantage for the combination. It would seem that a player paying any attention at all would simply focus-fire the carriers, ignoring the scouts.

Is there something I'm missing here?

Thanks to any and all who help me understand this combination. Cheers!