This study investigates how tactical actions influenced the outcome of the Battle of Midway in 1942, where the United States defeated a numerically superior Japanese fleet. Previous research has focused mainly on the strategic aspects of the battle, often neglecting the tactical level. By applying Hughes theory of the six cornerstones concerning aspects of naval tactics, this study conducts a theory-consuming case analysis where the two sides tactical actions are compared, to analyze and understand how it affected the outcome of the battle. The findings show that the American tactical success was enabled by adaptive leadership, flexible doctrine, technological integration and effective timing in accordance with the cornerstones. In contrast, the Japanese hierarchal structure and failure to adapt to changing conditions during the battle contributed to their defeat. The study concludes that tactical competence, conceptualized through Hughes theory, was a decisive factor in the battle and is highly relevant for naval operations, particularly for small states facing asymmetric threats.