The torpedo attack during the Battle off Samar, launched by the escort carriers and destroyers of Taffy 3 (Task Unit 77.4.3), significantly affected the Japanese battleship Yamato, preventing it from effectively rejoining the battle. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how this occurred:
1. The Torpedo Attack
As part of their desperate defense against Vice Admiral Kurita’s Center Force, the destroyers and destroyer escorts of Taffy 3 launched an aggressive torpedo attack. Despite being heavily outgunned by the Japanese fleet, which included battleships, cruisers, and destroyers, the American ships executed their torpedo runs with courage and precision.
Focus on Yamato: As the largest and most powerful battleship in the Japanese fleet, Yamato was a prime target for the American destroyers. The USS Johnston (DD-557) and USS Hoel (DD-533) led daring attacks, launching torpedoes at close range under heavy fire.
Impact of Torpedoes: Although Yamato was not directly struck by torpedoes in this initial attack, the presence of torpedoes forced it to maneuver defensively. Yamato had to turn hard to avoid incoming torpedoes, temporarily taking it out of formation and reducing its ability to engage the American escort carriers and their screens effectively.
2. Loss of Coordination
The defensive maneuvers forced by the torpedo attack disrupted the Japanese fleet’s formation. Yamato, with its slower response times due to its massive size and heavy displacement, became separated from the rest of Kurita’s Center Force.
Reduced Speed: In addition to the disruption caused by torpedo avoidance, Yamato's speed was reduced to prevent exposing itself to further attacks. This slowed its ability to re-engage the battle effectively.
Command Delay: As the flagship of the fleet, Yamato’s temporary disengagement delayed Kurita’s ability to command and coordinate his ships during the critical moments of the battle.
3. Psychological Impact
The audacity and effectiveness of the American attack, despite the overwhelming odds, sowed confusion and hesitation among the Japanese commanders. The presence of aircraft from the escort carriers, combined with relentless attacks by destroyers and destroyer escorts, gave the impression that Taffy 3 was a much larger force.
Overestimation of the Threat: Kurita and his commanders may have overestimated the size and capability of the American fleet. This led to caution and hesitation, including the eventual withdrawal order.
4. Withdrawal from the Battle
As the battle progressed, Kurita ordered a general retreat due to mounting losses, confusion, and the belief that his fleet was under attack by a much larger and more powerful American force. Yamato, separated and unable to rejoin the main engagement in time, played no further role in the battle.