I-58 is diverted from an imminent Iwo Jima attack

I-58 was about ninety minutes from its kaiten launch position against the Iwo Jima invasion fleet when it was recalled for Tan No. 2. Hashimoto asked to complete the attack first, but the recall stood because no other submarine was available for the required role. Two kaiten were discarded so I-58 could proceed at full speed. The return involved extensive surface running and concern about reefs. Completing the original attack was estimated to delay its arrival by only three to three and a half hours, making the cancellation a substantial opportunity cost of the new assignment.