Scharnhorst and Gneisenau

In February 1942, six Swordfish armed with torpedoes encountered heavy anti-aircraft fire in the English Channel and were shot down, but not before two torpedoes were launched at a German battleship sailing at high speed. This attack was part of a wider British effort to stop the battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau from making their way back to Germany. The Scharnhorst and Gneisenau were Germany's most successful battleships and played a more proactive role in the Second World War, but have been overshadowed by the Bismarck and Tirpitz. This book provides an authoritative and informative look at the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau, from their conception through the first successful years of the Second World War to their respective losses.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2023
Publisher: Fonthill Media Ltd

In February 1942, a remarkable encounter unfolded in the English Channel as six Swordfish aircraft, equipped with torpedoes, faced intense anti-aircraft fire. Despite being shot down, they managed to launch two torpedoes at a German battleship sailing at high speed. This daring attack was part of a broader British initiative aimed at preventing the battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau from returning to Germany.

The Scharnhorst, one of the most iconic capital ships to have served with the Kriegsmarine, has often been overshadowed by her sister ship, Gneisenau, despite their significant contributions to the Second World War. While the Bismarck and Tirpitz garnered more attention, the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau played a more proactive role and were Germany's most successful battleships. This book offers an authoritative and comprehensive exploration of the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau, delving into their inception, initial triumphs during the Second World War, and their eventual losses.

This account provides a detailed account of naval warfare against the Royal Navy off the coast of Norway and the German perspective on the war against Allied commerce. It sheds light on the strategies, tactics, and technological advancements employed by both sides, highlighting the bravery and resilience of the sailors who fought in these battles. The Scharnhorst and Gneisenau, as the first capital ships of the Kriegsmarine, played a pivotal role in shaping the course of the war, and this book offers valuable insights into their history and legacy.

Weight: 898g
Dimension: 257 x 181 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781558874