Iwo Jima, Japan – 1945 U.S. Assault Plan Battle Map

Iwo Jima, Japan – 1945 U.S. Assault Plan Battle Map

Examine the strategic planning behind one of World War II’s most intense and consequential battles with this detailed U.S. assault plan of Iwo Jima. Published in November 1944 in preparation for the coming invasion, this historic military map outlines the landing beaches, assault sectors, terrain challenges, and defensive positions that would shape the February 1945 battle.

Historical Context

By late 1944, Iwo Jima had become a critical objective for Allied forces advancing toward the Japanese home islands. Located between the Mariana Islands and mainland Japan, the island provided early-warning radar and interceptor bases that threatened U.S. bombing operations. Securing Iwo Jima was essential for establishing emergency landing fields and tightening Allied control of the Pacific.

When the invasion began on February 19, 1945, U.S. Marines encountered heavily fortified volcanic terrain, extensive tunnel networks, and determined defenders. This assault plan map—published in November 1944—reflects the operational planning undertaken months in advance of the landing and offers a rare view into how the battle was intended to unfold.

The Map’s Features

This operational battle map presents the planned U.S. assault with clarity and precision, showing:

• Designated landing beaches and color-coded assault sectors

• Amphibious approach routes and naval gunfire support zones

• Initial landing assignments for Marine units

• Airfields, roads, ridgelines, and volcanic terrain including Mount Suribachi

• Known Japanese defensive positions and fortifications

• Geographic features that influenced the course of the battle

Military symbology and structured layout reflect the professional cartographic standards used by U.S. Army engineers during the final year of the Pacific War.

Historical Significance

The Battle of Iwo Jima remains one of the most significant and costly engagements in U.S. Marine Corps history. This map preserves the strategic framework behind the assault, allowing viewers to understand the scale, complexity, and challenges of the operation. For historians and collectors, it serves as both a technical military document and a solemn tribute to the sacrifices made during the Pacific campaign.

Museum-Quality Reproduction

This is a high-quality reproduction of the original military map, professionally printed using museum-grade methods and materials to preserve every detail of this historic operational document. Each piece is produced on archival Hahnemühle paper using the Giclée printing process, ensuring exceptional clarity, durability, and a refined finish suitable for display in any setting.

Perfect For

• World War II and Pacific Theater historians

• Military professionals and veterans

• Battle map and cartography collectors

• Offices, libraries, and study spaces

• Gifts for Marines and military families

• Commemorative displays honoring WWII service

Specifications

• Original Publication: November 1944

• Publisher: 64th Engineer Topographic Battalion, U.S. Army Forces Central Pacific

• Style: Mid-20th-century operational battle map

• Features: Landing beaches, assault sectors, naval support zones, unit assignments, volcanic terrain, defensive positions

• Product Type: High-Quality Reproduction Print

• Scale: Not specified

• Dimensions (Width x Height): 24 x 34.9

Each map is printed using the finest materials and methods. Your map will be handled with white gloves from start to finish. We use the Giclée printing method on Hahnemühle paper, which produces a clear, extremely detailed, durable map perfect for proud display in your home or office.

Digital watermark does not appear on your purchased map.