The Battle of Leyte Gulf was a major naval battle fought from October 23 to October 26, 1944, during World War II. It took place in the waters near the Philippines and was a crucial part of the Allied campaign to retake the islands from Japanese control. This battle involved large fleets from both the United States and Japan, marking one of the largest naval engagements in history. The battle consisted of several smaller engagements, including the Battle of Surigao Strait and the Battle off Samar. The outcome was a decisive victory for the Allies, leading to the destruction of much of the Japanese fleet and paving the way for the liberation of the Philippines.