The Battle of Leyte Gulf was a decisive naval confrontation between the United States and Japan during World War II, occurring in the waters near the Philippines. The engagement took place from October 23 to October 26, 1944, and is characterized as one of the largest and most significant naval battles in history. Following the successful invasion of Leyte Island by American forces earlier in October, the United States sought to secure their gains and expand their foothold in the Philippines, leading to a showdown with the Imperial Japanese Navy.

The battle involved various naval units, including aircraft carriers, battleships, cruisers, and destroyers, from both sides. The U.S. forces, commanded by Admiral William Halsey, aimed to eradicate Japanese naval power and facilitate the liberation of occupied territories. The Japanese fleet, under the command of Admiral Soemu Toyoda, initiated a desperate plan to counter the American advance by concentrating their forces into a major naval operation. This bold maneuver included a series of surprise attacks and intricate strategies aimed at inflicting maximum damage on American forces.

Over the course of several days, fierce naval engagements unfolded, marked by intense aerial and surface combat, with significant battles occurring in the Sibuyan Sea, the Surigao Strait, and off Cape Engaño. The U.S. Navy ultimately gained supremacy by employing superior tactics and technology, leading to the sinking of several Japanese warships, including their largest battleships and aircraft carriers. The outcome of the Battle of Leyte Gulf not only crippled the Japanese navy but also paved the way for the subsequent American invasion of Luzon and the eventual recapture of the Philippines.