WWIINaval Archives
4–8 May 1942 • Pacific Ocean

Battle of the Coral Sea

Tactical Japanese Victory, Strategic Allied Victory

Background

A major naval battle between the IJN and naval/air forces from the US and Australia to prevent the Japanese invasion of Port Moresby.

Naval Forces

Allies: 2 fleet carriers, 9 cruisers. Japan: 2 fleet carriers, 1 light carrier, 9 cruisers.

Historical Significance

The first naval battle in history in which the participating ships never sighted or fired directly upon each other.