WWIINaval Archives
27 February 1942 • Java Sea

Battle of the Java Sea

Decisive Japanese Victory

Background

Allied navies formed the ABDACOM force to stop the Japanese advance into the Dutch East Indies.

Naval Forces

Allies: 2 heavy cruisers, 3 light cruisers, 9 destroyers. Japan: 2 heavy cruisers, 2 light cruisers, 14 destroyers.

Historical Significance

Led to the collapse of the ABDA command and the fall of the Dutch East Indies.