Gunichi Mikawa
The 8th Fleet was established on 14 July 1942 and was given an operational title of Outer South Seas Force, which reflected its mission of guarding conquests in the South Pacific. In this respect it essentially replaced the 4th Fleet, which was then given an operation title of Outer South Seas Force, and was primarily tasked with defending the Mandates. Vice Admiral Gunichi Mikawa was appointed as the first commander of the 8th Fleet.