Battle of the Coral Sea (珊瑚海海戰(zhàn))

Location: Coral Sea, Australia Date: 4 --8 May, 1942

Countries: Japan vs. Allies (United States and Australia)

Aircraft carriers: Japan: 2 fleet carriers (Shokaku and Zuikaku) and 1 light fleet carrier (Shoho) vs U.S.: 2 fleet carriers (USS Lexington and Yorktown)

Result: Although a tactical victory for the Japanese in terms of ships sunk, the battle would prove to be a strategic victory for the Allies. More importantly, the Japanese fleet carriers Shokaku and Zuikaku – one damaged and the other with a depleted aircraft complement – were unable to participate in the Battle of Midway, contributing significantly to the U.S. victory in that battle.