The Battle of Coral Sea was a significant naval battle fought from May 4 to May 8, 1942, during World War II. It was the first major battle in which aircraft carriers engaged each other, marking a shift in naval warfare. The battle took place between the United States Navy and the Imperial Japanese Navy near the coast of New Guinea. The battle resulted in a strategic victory for the Allies, as it halted the Japanese advance towards Port Moresby. Although both sides suffered losses, including the sinking of the USS Lexington and the Japanese aircraft carrier Shoho, the Allies successfully prevented Japan from establishing a stronghold in the region.