Ep 7. The Battle of Leyte Gulf

In Combat Ships season 2 episode 7, titled "The Battle of Leyte Gulf," viewers are taken back in time to October 1944, during World War II. The episode covers one of the largest naval battles in history, known as the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which took place in the Philippines. The battle involved the United States Navy, Australian Navy, and the Imperial Japanese Navy.

The episode begins by providing historical context for the battle, outlining the strategic importance of the Philippines to both the U.S. and Japan. It is explained that after Japan's defeat at the Battle of Midway in 1942, the U.S. was able to push Japanese forces out of the Solomon Islands. This allowed the U.S. to plan an invasion of the Philippines, which was a key stronghold for Japan.

The episode then dives into the specifics of the battle itself, beginning with the Japanese plan to lure the U.S. Navy into a trap. The Japanese deployed their "Center Force" under the command of Admiral Takeo Kurita, which consisted of four battleships, six heavy cruisers, two light cruisers, and 11 destroyers. The plan was to lure the U.S. Navy north, away from the planned invasion of the Philippines, and then attack them with the Center Force.

The U.S. Navy, however, was aware of the Japanese plan and had prepared a trap of their own. They had deployed the Third Fleet, under the command of Admiral William Halsey, to the south of Leyte Gulf, where they would be ready to intercept any enemy forces. The U.S. fleet included five fleet carriers, six light carriers, 16 battleships, 25 cruisers, and over 150 destroyers and other smaller vessels.

The episode then delves into the actual battle, portraying it from both the U.S. and Japanese perspectives. The U.S. fleet managed to locate and attack the Center Force, sinking several of its ships. However, the Japanese were still able to inflict significant damage on the U.S. Navy with kamikaze attacks, which were a terrifying new weapon employed by the Japanese.

The episode also highlights the bravery of individual sailors, on both sides of the battle, who risked their lives to carry out critical tasks such as repairing damaged ships and fighting fires. The role of technology in the battle is also explored, such as the use of radar by both the U.S. and Japanese navies.

Overall, the episode provides a gripping and informative account of one of the most significant naval battles in history. It allows viewers to gain an understanding of the tactics, technology, and human bravery involved in a massive and complex battle, all while providing insight into the greater context of World War II.