The Siblings of HMS Hood: Did It Sink Any Ships During World War II and Beyond?

HMS Hood: A British Battlecruiser's Notable Siblings

During its service in both World War I and World War II, HMS Hood, a British battlecruiser, distinguished itself in numerous battles. This article explores its naval battles, focusing on its engagements with other major warships, including its notable feats during the Battle of the Denmark Strait and the Battle of Mers-El-Kebir during World War II.

HMS Hood: Early Achievements and Battles of World War I

During the Great War, HMS Hood played a significant role, primarily in the Battle of Jutland in 1916. During this crucial battle, Hood sank the German light cruiser SMS Phaeton and caused considerable damage to other naval vessels. This engaged, yet inconclusive victory established Hood as a powerful and formidable force in the Royal Navy.

World War II: The Hunt for the German Battleship Bismarck

During the Second World War, HMS Hood became famous for its pursuit and eventual confrontation with the German battleship Bismarck. The battle took place in the Battle of the Denmark Strait on May 24, 1941. Although Hood was engaged by Bismarck and took significant damage, its fuel and ammunition still allowed it to continue the fight. Despite the heavy fire from Bismarck, including a fatal 14.9-inch (38 cm) shell, Hood eventually fell victim to the German warship, resulting in its unfortunate sinking.

Although HMS Hood did not sink any enemy ships before its own sinking, it played a crucial role in the hunt and incapacitation of the heavily armed Bismarck. This included inflicting significant damage and forcing the German battleship to retreat, which ultimately led to Bismarck's own fate a few days later.

Ancient Battles at Mers-El-Kebir: HMS Hood's Forgotten Triumph

Less known but significant, HMS Hood was also involved in the Action of 3 July 1940, better known as the Battle of Mers-El-Kebir. This engagement saw the HMS Hood and its fleet face off against the French naval forces, who were under threat of capture. Despite the dramatic and quick conflict, Hood managed to sink two French ships, the battleship Bretagne and the Dunkerque, paving the way for safer operations for Britain.

The Bretagne exploded after a HMS Hood shell penetrated its 9.8-inch (25 cm) main belt, leading to the ship's permanent demise. Meanwhile, with a single salvo, HMS Hood put the Dunkerque on the bottom in shallow waters, ensuring the safety of the British fleet. Although the Dunkerque was later raised, it suffered a second sinking by the Aircraft Carrier Ark Royal.

The 6th main guns of the HMS Hood striking Bretagne and the sinking of both the Bretagne and Dunkerque in the and .

Conclusion: Remembering the Legacy of HMS Hood

While the Battle of the Denmark Strait is often remembered as HMS Hood's most famous engagement, the battle at Mers-El-Kebir and the sinking of Bretagne and Dunkerque highlight Hood's significant contributions to the Royal Navy during World War II. This article aims to correct historical misconceptions about Hood and strengthen its memory as a highly formidable and strategically significant British warship.