4 June 1942
Japan launched an attack on Midway Atoll, unaware that American codebreakers had uncovered the operation in advance.
Carrier Strike
U.S. Navy dive bombers launched surprise attacks that fatally damaged three Japanese aircraft carriers within minutes.
Four Carriers Lost
By the end of the battle, Japan had lost four fleet aircraft carriers along with many experienced pilots and aircraft.
7 June 1942
After four days of fighting, the Battle of Midway ended in a decisive American victory and a major setback for Japan’s navy.
Turning Point
Midway shifted the balance of naval power in the Pacific, allowing the United States to take the strategic initiative for the remainder of the war.
Decode the battle
Midway cipher
One of the four Japanese aircraft carriers sunk during the Battle of Midway was ______.
Akagi, Kaga, Sōryū, and Hiryū were Japan’s four fleet carriers lost during the battle, a blow from which the Imperial Japanese Navy never fully recovered.
Decoded
Mission accomplished. Continue exploring the decisive naval battles of World War II.
