A total of 131 dive bombers were part of the Japanese attacking force at Pearl Harbor.
The meticulously planned attack on Pearl Harbor, which occurred on December 7, 1941, unfolded in two distinct waves. Each wave consisted of various types of aircraft, including torpedo planes, level bombers, dive bombers, and fighters, designed to strike different targets and achieve maximum destruction.
Composition of the Attack Waves
The initial assault wave was larger in number, followed by a second wave that reinforced the attack, focusing on different targets and aircraft types. Here's a breakdown of the aircraft that participated, highlighting the dive bomber contingent:
| Wave | Aircraft Type | Number |
|---|---|---|
| First Wave | Torpedo Planes | 40 |
| Level Bombers | 49 | |
| Dive Bombers | 51 | |
| Fighters | 43 | |
| Total First Wave | 183 | |
| Second Wave | Level Bombers | 54 |
| Dive Bombers | 80 | |
| Fighters | 36 | |
| Total Second Wave | 170 |
By combining the numbers from both waves, we find that the first wave contributed 51 dive bombers, and the second wave added 80 more, resulting in a grand total of 131 dive bombers.
Strategic Role of Dive Bombers
Dive bombers were crucial components of the attack force, known for their precision bombing capabilities. They targeted specific structures, airfields, and ships, aiming to inflict damage on stationary or slow-moving targets with high accuracy by diving steeply towards them before releasing their bombs. Their deployment in significant numbers across both waves underscored their importance in the overall strategy to neutralize the U.S. Pacific Fleet and its airpower.
For more detailed information on the Pearl Harbor attack and its aftermath, you can explore resources from the Naval History and Heritage Command.
