A flanking strategy forced Japanese withdrawal from Mount Tambu, advancing Allied progress in the Salamaua–Lae campaign in New Guinea.
Key Facts
- Start Date
- 16 July 1943
- End Date
- 18 August 1943
- Duration
- 33 days days
- Theater
- Territory of New Guinea, WWII Pacific
- Key Location
- Komiatum Track supply route
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Following the repulse of a Japanese attack on Wau in late January and early February 1943, a combined Australian and US force advanced from Wau toward Salamaua. This advance brought Allied troops into contact with a strongly held Japanese position at Mount Tambu, prompting the engagement as part of the broader Salamaua–Lae campaign.
Between 16 July and 18 August 1943, Allied forces launched several frontal assaults against Japanese defenders at Mount Tambu, all of which were repulsed. Commanders then shifted to flanking maneuvers aimed at cutting the Japanese supply line along the Komiatum Track, bringing indirect pressure to bear on the entrenched position.
The flanking moves successfully threatened Japanese encirclement, compelling their forces to abandon the Mount Tambu position and withdraw. This outcome advanced the Allied progress toward Salamaua and contributed to the final stages of the Salamaua–Lae campaign in New Guinea.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Side B
1 belligerent