147 - The Japanese tank attack in the Battle of Henderson Field - Guadalcanal

About this episode

This episode discusses the Japanese tank attack during the Battle of Henderson Field and the challenges faced by their command structure.

This episode looks at the Sumiyoshi's tank attack across the Matanikau - an attempt to draw defenders away from the perimeter of Henderson Field. We also discuss why Muryama coundn;t synchronise his forces and the dysfunction within the Japanese Headquarters. We look at - What are the consequences of relieving a subordinate commander on the eve of battle? (And what role did Tsuji play in Kawaguchi's dismissal?) What happens when multiple attacking elements operate independently without coordination? How should armour, infantry, and artillery be coordinated in an assault? What is the value of pre-registered artillery fires in defense? How can the Japanese achieve tactical surprise despite proximity? What is the purpose and risk of outposts forward of the main defensive line? Dave Holland is an ex-Marine and was posted to Guadalcanal with the Australian Federal Police. He regularly leads battlefield study tours through the area. He is a world-leading expert on the battles of Guadalcanal and author of Guadalcanal's Longest Fight - The Pivotal Battles of the Matanikau Front. Check out the show notes for the Guadalcanal series . https://www.patreon.com/cw/principlesofwar - if you've…

People in this episode

Host: James Eling

Guest: Dave Holland

Topics covered

• Japanese military strategy
• Battle of Guadalcanal
• tank warfare
• command and control
• tactical surprise
• artillery coordination

Keywords

• Guadalcanal
• Henderson Field
• Japanese tank attack
• Matanikau
• military strategy
• artillery
• tactical surprise
• command dysfunction

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Guadalcanal's Longest Fight - The Pivotal Battles of the Matanikau Front

Places: Guadalcanal

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