The battle began as a Japanese amphibious attempt supported by cruisers and destroyers, even though the decisive fighting took place ashore. Australian forces defeated the Special Naval Landing Force and turned the operation into an Allied victory. Contemporary Australian casualty estimates were more restrained than the inflated figures often associated with MacArthur's publicity. Fleet transport and fire support delivered the assault, yet the operation failed when the landing force met organised defenders.
Notable Point · 3:59:15-4:01:21
Milne Bay and a failed Japanese amphibious assault
Milne Bay paired Japanese naval landing forces and cruiser support against a well-defended Australian position.