The Battle of Leyte Gulf is considered one of the largest naval battles in history, fought between 23 and 26 October 1944. As the Allies launched an invasion of Leyte, Japan's response involved a complex plan to intercept and destroy the invading forces. Admiral Takeo Kurita commanded the Japanese Center Force, which consisted of battleships, cruisers, and destroyers. The battle saw various tactical movements, including Kurita’s fleet attempting to reach the landing forces at Leyte Gulf through the San Bernardino Strait. On 24 October, U.S. naval forces, which included the 3rd Fleet under Admiral William Halsey, engaged Kurita's forces in furious encounters, facing fierce resistance. As airplanes swooped down from carriers and gunfire erupted from battleships, the Japanese fleet experienced significant damage and personnel losses.While initially successful in inflicting damage, Kurita's force struggled with coordination, facing both aircraft and naval artillery. An unexpected turn of events saw Kurita retreating, frustrated by heavy damage and an engaging threat of the American naval power. This repulsion not only delayed Japanese naval plans but also signified a shift in naval supremacy in favor of the Allies. Following this battle, the Allies would continue their campaign to liberate the Philippines, heavily diminishing Japanese influence in the Pacific theater and marking a crucial step towards Allied victory in World War II.