The Battle of Guningtou unfolded as part of the larger Chinese Civil War, primarily involving the forces of the Kuomintang (KMT) and the People's Liberation Army (PLA). In October 1949, as the communist forces were consolidating their control over mainland China and pushing toward Taiwan, the KMT, which had retreated to Taiwan, prepared to defend its last significant stronghold. The KMT troops, stationed at Guningtou, faced an onslaught from the PLA, who aimed to expand their territorial claims into Taiwan. The conflict lasted from October 25 to October 27 and included naval and aerial engagements over the strategic waters of the Taiwan Strait.

During the battle, the KMT troops, composed of both veteran soldiers and newer recruits, utilized their training and localized knowledge to resist the PLA's advances. Commanded by General Chen Cheng, the KMT forces orchestrated their defense with a mix of traditional and modern military tactics. The PLA, under the command of General Luo Ruiqing, aimed for a swift victory to demonstrate their strength. Guningtou's geographic position made it an ideal target due to its proximity to the main shipping routes and its potential as a staging ground for further assaults on Taiwan.

The fighting was fierce, despite the KMT's often less sophisticated equipment. The determination of the defenders coupled with initial challenges faced by the PLA, including logistical difficulties, prolonged the battle. Ultimately, with reinforcements and the advantage of numbers, the KMT was able to repel the PLA forces, marking a tactical victory that would have implications for the ongoing conflict in the region.