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Sinking of the Tirpitz
The sinking of the German battleship Tirpitz by the Royal Air Force in a surprise attack during World War II.
German
Germany
Germany MilitaryMilitary TechnologyHistoryWorld War IiBombingBattleship
Royal Air Force617 SquadronBomber CommandGerman Navy
James TaitRobert WeberHeinrich Ehrler
- What was the casualty count of the Tirpitz sinking?
- At least 940 sailors died in the sinking of the Tirpitz. Approximately 596 sailors were rescued, some after being trapped inside the capsized ship.
- Who were the key figures involved in the attack and defense?
- Captain James Tait led the Royal Air Force's attack. Robert Weber, the Tirpitz's commander, ordered an evacuation, but the ship capsized before many could escape.
- How effective was the Tirpitz's defense against the air attack?
- The Tirpitz's anti-aircraft fire was ineffective against the high-flying bombers and their powerful bombs. Two direct hits caused significant damage, leading to the ship's capsizing.
- What happened to the German battleship Tirpitz on November 12, 1944?
- The Tirpitz, Germany's last major battleship, was sunk on November 12, 1944, in a fjord near Tromsø, Norway, by a surprise attack from the Royal Air Force.
- How did the Royal Air Force attack the Tirpitz, and what type of bombs were used?
- The attack involved 30 Lancaster bombers of the Royal Air Force's 617 Squadron, utilizing 5.4-ton "Tallboy" bombs. The bombers approached from the direction of the sun, making them difficult to spot.