DARWIN, NT. — On February 19, 1942, the city was attacked in a bombing raid by the Japanese, who launched two waves of planes comprising 242 bombers and fighters. At least 243 civilians and military personnel were killed, not counting the indigenous Australians whose deaths were not counted.
Although it was a less significant target, a greater number of bombs were dropped than in the attack on Pearl Harbour. These attacks were the first of an estimated 64 air raids against Darwin during 1942-43.
Following the February raid, other parts of Australia, including Darwin, northwest Western Australia and even regions of far north Queensland, were subject to over one hundred more raids.
Airport base areas attacked included Townsville, Katherine, Wyndham, Derby and Port Hedland, while Milingimbi, Exmouth Gulf and Horn Island were also targeted. 63 more Japanese raids occurred against Darwin and its immediate surroundings.
The final attack occurred on November 12, 1943. There was only minor damage around the town of Darwin, and no casualties.
