Leyte Gulf 1944 (1): The Battles of the Sibuyan Sea and Samar

In October 1944, the US prepared to invade the Philippines to cut Japan off from its resource areas in Southeast Asia. The Japanese prepared a complex operation to defend its possessions, resulting in a decisive defeat for the Japanese. This book examines why the Imperial Japanese Navy commander chose to ignore orders and break off the attack into Leyte Gulf, and covers the Japanese planning and command arrangements.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In October 1944, the United States prepared to invade the Philippines to sever Japan's access to vital resource areas in Southeast Asia. The Japanese anticipated this move and devised a intricate plan to utilize the remaining strength of its navy to safeguard its territories. This marks the beginning of a two-part examination of the pivotal October 23-26 Battle of Leyte Gulf, which ultimately resulted in a resounding defeat for the Japanese.

During the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the Imperial Japanese Navy's First Diversion Strike Force played a significant role in two major actions: the intense air attacks by US Navy carriers on October 24 (the Battle of the Sibuyan Sea, which included the formidable battleship Musashi) and the compelling action off Samar the following day. This book delves into the compelling reasons behind the Imperial Japanese Navy commander of the First Diversion Strike Force (Takeo Kurita) defying orders and breaking off the attack into Leyte Gulf, one of the most contentious decisions of the entire battle. It also provides a comprehensive analysis of the Japanese planning for Leyte Gulf, alongside the US Navy's strategic planning and command arrangements.

The Japanese anticipated the US invasion and prepared a complex operation to defend their possessions. They used their remaining strength to protect their navy and their territories. The Battle of Leyte Gulf was a significant turning point in the Pacific War, as it marked the first time that the US Navy had successfully engaged and defeated the Japanese navy in a major battle. The Japanese navy was considered one of the most powerful in the world, and their defeat at Leyte Gulf was a significant blow to their military capabilities.

The Battle of Leyte Gulf was a complex operation that involved a large number of ships and aircraft from both sides. The US Navy had a superior fleet, with more ships and aircraft than the Japanese navy. However, the Japanese navy was well-trained and experienced, and they used their strengths to their advantage.

One of the key factors that led to the Japanese defeat at Leyte Gulf was the lack of coordination between the Japanese navy and the Japanese army. The Japanese navy was focused on defending their territories, while the Japanese army was focused on advancing into the Philippines. This led to a situation where the Japanese navy was unable to provide support to the Japanese army, which ultimately led to their defeat.

Another factor that contributed to the Japanese defeat was the lack of air cover for their ships. The US Navy had a superior air force, with more planes and pilots than the Japanese navy. This allowed the US Navy to launch air attacks on the Japanese navy, which were able to inflict significant damage on their ships.

Despite these factors, the Japanese navy put up a strong fight at Leyte Gulf. They used their ships and aircraft to their best advantage, and they were able to inflict significant damage on the US Navy. However, in the end, their lack of coordination and air cover were their downfall.

The Battle of Leyte Gulf was a significant victory for the United States, and it marked a turning point in the Pacific War. It demonstrated the strength and capabilities of the US Navy and showed that the Japanese navy was not invincible. The battle also had a lasting impact on the course of the war, as it set the stage for the eventual invasion of Japan and the end of World War II.

In conclusion, the Battle of Leyte Gulf was a pivotal moment in the Pacific War, and it marked a significant victory for the United States. The Japanese navy was well-trained and experienced, but their lack of coordination and air cover were their downfall. The battle demonstrated the strength and capabilities of the US Navy and set the stage for the eventual invasion of Japan and the end of World War II.

Weight: 312g
Dimension: 185 x 246 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472842817