The Kamikaze unit, formally known as the Tokkō Tai, was a specialized branch of the Imperial Japanese Air Force during World War II. The term "Kamikaze" translates to "Divine Wind," referencing the legendary typhoons that saved Japan from Mongol invasions in the 13th century. From 1944 to 1945, volunteer pilots, mostly aged 17-25, were recruited for suicidal missions against Allied naval forces. Armed with modified Zero fighters or bombers, Kamikaze pilots intentionally crashed into enemy ships, aiming for destructive impact. Their targets included U.S. aircraft carriers, battleships, and destroyers. The Kamikaze unit's objective was to inflict maximum damage and disrupt Allied advances, as Japan faced imminent defeat. Approximately 3,900 Kamikaze pilots died in these missions, sinking or damaging over 300 Allied vessels. The Kamikaze tactic, though controversial and tragic, became an enduring symbol of Japan's desperation and national sacrifice during the final stages of World War II.


Some notable statistics:


- 3,913 Kamikaze pilots died
- 306 Allied ships sunk or damaged
- 36% of U.S. naval casualties in the Pacific were attributed to Kamikaze attacks
- Most notable Kamikaze attack: USS Indianapolis (CA-35) sunk on July 30, 1945


Key figures:


- Admiral Takijiro Onishi: Founder of the Kamikaze unit
- Captain Motoharu Okamura: Leading proponent of Kamikaze tactics


Important events:


- October 25, 1944: First Kamikaze attack
- April 1, 1945: Mass Kamikaze attack during Operation Ten-Go


Legacy:


- Controversy surrounding the tactic's morality and effectiveness
- Enduring symbol of Japanese nationalism and sacrifice
- Inspiration for post-war Japanese culture and literature