"The Battle of the Philippine Sea, the greatest carrier battle in history, was important for several reasons. It was the last attempt by the Japanese Navy to fight a wholly conventional battle. The destruction of the Japanese air groups in this battle was the principal cause for the resort to kamikaze attacks and the use of carriers as decoys at Leyte Gulf. The battle also marked the high point of American technique. In no previous battle had US carriers escaped damage from attacks by the Japanese Naval Air Force, nor, because of kamikaze, would they again escape harm. The Philippines too, was a battle marked by a 'Jutland controversy'. Admiral Spruance, victor at Midway, was criticised, sometimes severely, for not allowing the carrier force to move west and seek out the Japanese carriers rather than waiting for them as he did. The principal contenders of this controversy are quoted at length in the text, which also includes a number of vivid action photographs not previously published."--Jacket flap.

Preliminary moves -- The Battle of the Philippine Sea -- The Japanese fleet withdraws -- Conclusion.