Midway Submerged: American and Japanese Submarine Operations at the Battle of Midway, May–June 1942

"Naval history enthusiasts and military historians who enjoy taking deeper dives into the backgrounds of well-known battles, particularly concerning tactics and leadership, will appreciate this read. The book is enriched with well-captioned photos, diagrams, and very detailed appendices, which makes it an excellent reference work." ―HistoryNet

Most books gloss over submarines at Midway and, if they are mentioned at all, conclude they failed miserably and had little impact on the outcome of the battle. It is undeniable that carrier aviation and intelligence saved the day, but the role of the submarine was an important one in defense of an anticipated amphibious assault.

Midway Submerged is a comprehensive examination of a little-known aspect of this pivotal naval battle, explaining how Nimitz used his submarines at Midway, and the Japanese misused theirs based on a flawed tactical plan. Based on in-depth archival research not only into the battle itself, but also submarine design and construction, and tactical and operational doctrine for both the United States and Japan, it brings a whole new dimension to the discussion of the battle of Midway. It examines the intended role of the submarine in the plans and doctrine of both navies, and what the submarines were expected to accomplish for both fleets during the battle, before assessing the actual accomplishments, successes, and failures of the submarine forces on both sides. Of particular importance, the book offers an analysis of how well these vessels fulfilled the expectations placed on them by their respective naval planners, concluding that submarines played a more important role in the outcome than has been previously understood.

Table of Contents

1. Midway Submerged: Introduction
2. Japanese Naval Doctrine
3. Japanese Submarine Strategy and Tactics
4. United States Naval Doctrine
5. United States Submarine Strategy and Tactics
6. Japanese Submarine Actions at Midway
7. United States Submarine Actions at Midway
8. Analysis: Undersea Warfare at Midway
9. Midway Submerged: Conclusions

Appendices
Bibliography
Notes
Index