Both forces were conducting familiar missions, but only the American bombardment group knew an enemy contact was likely and had prepared to fight. The two Japanese destroyers were returning from resupply when a much larger cruiser-destroyer force caught them unaware. The mismatch supports a cautious rule for commanders: assume the opponent has useful information and will act effectively on it.
Chapter · 0:28-3:34
Blackett Strait rewards preparation and information
The opening frames Blackett Strait as a night action decided before the shooting by warning, preparation, maneuver, and overwhelming American firepower.