Sinking of HMS Ark Royal: November 13, 1941

On November 13, 1941, the British aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal sank after being torpedoed by the German submarine U-81. This event marked a significant moment in naval warfare during World War II, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most formidable naval vessels to submarine attacks.

Background

HMS Ark Royal was a key asset in the Royal Navy, having been involved in numerous operations since her commissioning in 1938. She played a crucial role in the early years of World War II, participating in the hunt for the German battleship Bismarck and providing air cover during the evacuation of Crete.

The Attack

• Date: November 13, 1941
• Location: Mediterranean Sea, near Gibraltar

On November 10, 1941, Ark Royal was returning to Gibraltar after delivering aircraft to Malta as part of Operation Perpetual. On November 13, while navigating the Mediterranean Sea, she was targeted by the German submarine U-81, commanded by Friedrich Guggenberger.

U-81 launched a single torpedo that struck Ark Royal on the starboard side. The impact caused significant flooding, and despite efforts to save the ship, she began to list heavily.

Aftermath

• Casualties: Remarkably, only one crew member was lost due to the effective evacuation procedures.
• Sinking: The Ark Royal sank the following day, on November 14, 1941, after attempts to tow her to Gibraltar failed.

The loss of Ark Royal was a blow to the Royal Navy, as she was one of their most advanced carriers. Her sinking underscored the strategic importance of anti-submarine warfare and the need for improved naval defenses against submarine threats.

Historical Significance

The sinking of HMS Ark Royal had several implications:

1. Naval Strategy: It highlighted the effectiveness of submarines in naval warfare, prompting the Allies to enhance their anti-submarine tactics and technology.
2. Morale and Propaganda: While the loss was a setback, the successful evacuation of nearly all crew members was used to boost morale and demonstrate the resilience of the Royal Navy.
3. Technological Advancements: The incident accelerated the development of better damage control measures and improvements in aircraft carrier design.

In summary, the sinking of HMS Ark Royal was a pivotal event in World War II, illustrating the evolving nature of naval warfare and the ongoing battle for control of the seas.