The Battle of the Philippine Sea was a pivotal naval engagement during World War II that took place over several days, culminating in a decisive confrontation on June 20, 1944. The U.S. Navy launched a large-scale offensive aimed at the captured Marianas Islands, essential for establishing air bases capable of supporting bombers targeting the Japanese mainland. Japanese forces, led by Admiral Jisaburo Ozawa, sought to protect their territories and keep American forces at bay. The battle is particularly noted for the overwhelming success of American carrier-based aircraft known as the 'Great Marianas Turkey Shoot'. In this aerial conflict, U.S. fighters shot down a staggering number of enemy planes, outclassing the less-prepared Japanese pilots and equipment.

The operation involved multiple aircraft carriers and their fighter squadrons. U.S. naval intelligence had significantly improved, permitting more effective strategies against the Japanese. As the battle unfolded, American pilots reported that they encountered poorly organized Japanese formations that made targeting easier, leading to an astonishing kill ratio. By the end of the battle, it was estimated that the U.S. shot down nearly 400 Japanese aircraft while losing only about 30 of their own, showcasing an unprecedented display of air combat effectiveness. Not only did this victory solidify U.S. naval superiority in the Pacific, but it also significantly weakened the air power of the Japanese Navy.

The aftermath of the battle set the stage for subsequent U.S. assaults in the region, including the liberation of Guam and the eventual invasion of the Philippines. The loss of air superiority for Japan had far-reaching consequences, marking a shift in the balance of power in the Pacific. The operation demonstrated the importance of naval aviation and the evolving tactics of aerial warfare, shaping future military strategies in the conflict.