Operation Shō and Leyte Gulf Battles

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following statements accurately defines the primary objective of Operation Shō-Shō?

To launch a coordinated, multi-pronged attack on the US fleet in the Pacific, aimed at securing the Leyte Gulf for Japan.
To decisively cripple the Allied fleet in the central Philippines' Leyte Gulf, disrupting their impending landings. (correct)
To regain control of the Philippines, strategically positioning Japan for a counteroffensive in the Pacific Theater.
To secure the Leyte Gulf area for Japan, ensuring the safe passage of Japanese military resources and reinforcements.

Which of the following accurately represents the composition of the First Mobile Fleet's Main Body, known as the 'Northern Force'?

The Kure-based carrier force, accompanied by a contingent of battleships and cruisers for protection. (correct)
A formidable force of battleships, cruisers, and aircraft carriers, with a substantial contingent of destroyers and submarines.
The majority of Japan's remaining battleships, cruisers, and carriers, with significant support from land-based aviation.
A combined force of battleships, cruisers, and carrier groups drawn from various Japanese naval bases.

What tactical maneuver did the Japanese Northern Force successfully execute in the Battle of Leyte Gulf?

A coordinated attack on the allied fleet, involving aerial, naval, and submarine operations.
A strategic withdrawal, effectively drawing away the US Third Fleet from the Leyte Gulf area. (correct)
A desperate last stand, engaging the US Third Fleet in a fierce but ultimately unsuccessful battle.
A surprise flanking maneuver on the Allied fleet, exploiting a weakness in their defense.

What was the ultimate fate of the First Mobile Fleet's Northern Group?

It was largely destroyed by Halsey's carrier air wings in the Battle of Cape Engaño, marking a significant defeat for Japan. (B) Signup and view all the answers

The First Mobile Fleet's Third Section, approaching the Philippines from the southwest, was combined with which other force to form the 'Southern Force'?

The Kure-based Second Diversion Attack Force, approaching from northeast to northwest. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of following statements describes the outcome of the Battle of Surigao Strait for the Southern Force?

The Southern Force was soundly defeated by the US Seventh Fleet, with heavy losses in battleships and other vessels. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What tactical advantage did the US Seventh Fleet possess in the Battle of Surigao Strait that contributed to their victory?

The ability to successfully cross the “T” of the Japanese force, maximizing their firepower and inflicting significant damage. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What actions did the Brunei-based First Diversion Attack Force face on October 23rd and 24th, respectively?

An ambush by US submarines in the Palawan Strait on October 23rd, followed by relentless attacks by US naval aircraft in the Sibuyan Sea on October 24th. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant factor contributing to the limited effectiveness of the Japanese carrier air groups in Operation Shō-Shō?

A severe depletion of their aircraft and pilots due to previous battles and losses, significantly reducing their strike capabilities. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately reflects the significance of the Battle of Leyte Gulf for the Japanese Imperial Navy?

It marked a crushing defeat for the Japanese Imperial Navy, significantly weakening their capabilities and hindering their resistance in the Pacific Theater. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary objective of the Japanese force that broke out of the San Bernardino Strait?

To attack and cripple U.S. amphibious shipping near Leyte Gulf (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Northern Force's successful decoy of the U.S. Third Fleet?

It created an opportunity for the Japanese Center Force to attack the vulnerable U.S. escort carrier task units. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the Battle off Samar considered the most dramatic naval engagement of the Leyte campaign?

It featured a significant mismatch in the size and firepower of opposing forces. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the ultimate outcome of Operation Shō?

The Japanese operation was repelled, and the U.S. offensive in the Philippines continued. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Leyte campaign affect the strategic threat posed by the Imperial Japanese Navy?

It marked the beginning of the Japanese Navy's decline and eventual defeat. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST characterizes the U.S. Seventh Fleet escort carrier task units that engaged the Japanese Center Force?

They were small but well-equipped task forces capable of providing effective air support. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Based on the context, identify the most probable meaning of the phrase "amphibious shipping" as used?

Shipping vessels designed to transport troops and equipment across bodies of water. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the use of the term "repulsed" suggest regarding the outcome of Operation Shō?

The Japanese operation was halted and their objectives were not achieved. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these aspects was most significant in the context of the Leyte Gulf battle according to the text?

The significant mismatch in the size and power of the opposing forces. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the term "unabated" suggest about the American offensive in the Philippines?

The Americans were making steady progress and their offensive was not hindered. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

San Bernardino Strait

A strait in the Philippines crucial for naval passage during WWII.

Battle off Samar

A significant naval engagement where U.S. forces faced a larger Japanese fleet on October 25, 1944.