147 - The Japanese tank attack in the Battle of Henderson Field - Guadalcanal

This episode looks at the Sumiyoshi's tank attack across the Matanikau - an attempt to draw defenders away from the perimeter of Henderson Field. We also discuss why Muryama coundn;t synchronise his forces and the dysfunction within the Japanese Headquarters.

We look at -

What are the consequences of relieving a subordinate commander on the eve of battle? (And what role did Tsuji play in Kawaguchi's dismissal?) What happens when multiple attacking elements operate independently without coordination? How should armour, infantry, and artillery be coordinated in an assault? What is the value of pre-registered artillery fires in defense? How can the Japanese achieve tactical surprise despite proximity? What is the purpose and risk of outposts forward of the main defensive line?

Dave Holland is an ex-Marine and was posted to Guadalcanal with the Australian Federal Police. He regularly leads battlefield study tours through the area. He is a world-leading expert on the battles of Guadalcanal and author of Guadalcanal's Longest Fight - The Pivotal Battles of the Matanikau Front.

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Check out the show notes for the Guadalcanal series.

https://www.patreon.com/cw/principlesofwar - if you've learnt something from this episode and you can afford it, please support the podcast at Patreon. Looking for YouTube PME videos? Check out the Principles of War YouTube Channel. Great Professional Military Education for your Unit. This episode covers co-operation, the employment of armour and command dysfunction.