Operation Ke was a crucial military operation involving the Imperial Japanese Navy, aimed at evacuating Japanese troops from Guadalcanal. This operation followed a protracted struggle during the Guadalcanal Campaign, which saw intense fighting between Japanese forces and Allied troops, primarily the United States Marine Corps. The campaign began in August 1942 and was characterized by brutal combat, significant logistical challenges, and severe losses on both sides. The Japanese forces, once confident in securing the island, faced a turning point that ultimately led to their failure. As the situation deteriorated, Japanese command recognized the importance of consolidating their remaining forces. From late January to early February 1943, the Japanese Navy executed Operation Ke, under Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto’s directive, to facilitate the safe withdrawal of remaining troops stationed on Guadalcanal. This mission saw the last of the beleaguered Japanese forces leave the island, signalling the end of their active campaign to retake Guadalcanal. The naval operations involved careful planning, strategic timing, and efforts to avoid detection by Allied forces in order to minimize casualties and preserve the Japanese military’s remaining strength.