Japanese Strategy in Pearl Harbor
The attack on Pearl Harbor is one of the most famous military strategies in the world. It was a surprise attack by the Japanese on the US naval base, on December 7th, 1941. Japan’s objective was to destroy important American forces in the Pacific, in order to gain an advantage during the war.
In planning the attack, Japan was fully aware of the potential consequences, including the possible entry of the United States into the war. Despite this, the Japanese took the risk, believing that the great benefit of a successful attack would be worth it.
Planning and Preparation
In order to maximize the chance of success, the Japanese went to great lengths in their planning and preparation for the attack.
Preparations Began in 1940:
The Japanese began their preparations for the attack on Pearl Harbor as far back as December 1940. This allowed them to thoroughly plan their strategy and prepare the materials they would need.
Military Planning:
The planners had to consider a range of factors including location, timing, and the composition of the attacking force. They also needed to anticipate how the Americans would respond to the attack, and how to counter this.
The attacking force consisted of six aircraft carriers, two battleships, three cruisers, nine destroyers and eight other ships. For their aircraft, they used a total of 353 planes, including fighters and bombers.
Materials Needed:
The materials the Japanese had to prepare for the attack included supplies of fuel and ammunition, as well as bombs and torpedoes for the planes. They also made sure that the Japanese ships had enough food, water, and medical supplies.
Organization and Training:
Having finalized their plans, the Japanese now had to organize and train their forces for the attack. They conducted several training exercises, which included practicing flying in the dark and launching torpedoes.
Secrecy:
To ensure that the attack was a surprise, the Japanese took measures to maintain total secrecy. They did not allow any communication from the carriers, and imposed strict radio silence. They even hid the location of the ships from their own sailors.
The Attack
On the morning of December 7th, 1941, the Japanese began their attack on Pearl Harbor.
Beginning of the Attack:
At 6.00am, the first wave of aircraft commenced the attack, leading with a surprise dive bomb attack on the airfields. This was followed by an attack on the battleships, at West Loch and East Loch.
End of the Attack:
The attack ended around 10.00am, with the last wave of aircraft leaving the area.
Damage Caused:
The attack caused significant damage. The US suffered the loss of 8 battleships, 3 cruisers, 3 destroyers and many other ships. They also lost 188 aircraft and over 2,400 personnel were killed.
Results of the Attack:
The results of the Japanese attack were far-reaching and had a major impact on the course of the war.
American Response:
The attack had the desired effect of forcing the United States to enter the war. On the 8th of December, President Roosevelt declared war on Japan, and the United States was thus drawn into the conflict.
Importance in the War:
Whilst the attack on Pearl Harbor did not win the war for Japan, it gave them a much needed boost. In the short term, it allowed them to occupy many islands in the Pacific and expand their empire. It also allowed them to buy valuable time to prepare for a war that was ultimately lost.
The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was a daring and risky strategy. Thanks to their careful planning, preparation and commitment to secrecy, it was a success and had a massive impact on the world. Whilst Japan ultimately lost the war, the attack on Pearl Harbor did give them an advantage and allowed them to occupy many strategic islands in the Pacific.