The Story of Douglas SBD Dauntless, the American Aircraft That Played a Critical Role in WWII

With their newfound knowledge of the Japanese plan, the Americans deliberately transmitted a seemingly innocent message regarding water supplies on the Midway Atoll, aware that the Japanese would intercept and decode it. In response, the Japanese unknowingly played into the Americans’ hands by transmitting a message concerning “A.F.’s” water situation through their channels, confirming the suspicion that “A.F.” indeed referred to Midway.

This critical breakthrough provided the Americans with invaluable intelligence, allowing them to prepare for the impending Japanese assault clandestinely. Armed with this advanced knowledge, U.S. forces were well-prepared when the Battle of Midway erupted, ultimately securing a decisive victory that shifted the course of the Pacific War in their favor.