THE BATTLESHIP BISMARCK

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The German battleship Bismarck is one of the most famous warships in history. The lead ship of her class, she was named after German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck. At the time of her build, she was the largest warship ever commissioned.

Despite her fame, Bismarck took part in only one operation during her brief career. She and the heavy cruiser Prinz Eugen left Gotenhafen on the morning of 19 May 1941 for Operation Rheinubung, during which she was to intercept and destroy convoys between the United States and Great Britain. When Bismarck and Prinz Eugen attempted to break out into the Atlantic, they were discovered by the Royal Navy and were attacked in Denmark Strait. During the short engagement, the British flagship battle cruiser, HMS Hood, was sunk after several minutes of firing. In response, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill issued the order to 'Sink the Bismarck,' spurring a relentless pursuit by the Royal Navy.

Two days later, Swordfish biplanes launched from the carrier HMS Ark Royal torpedoed the Bismarck. In the ensuing battle on the morning of 27 May 1941, Bismarck was heavily attacked for almost two hours before finally sinking and taking many German soldiers to their watery grave.

About the Series This brand-new series focuses on the construction of famous ships - battleships, carriers, cruisers, and submarines. With groundbreaking 3D imagery, each corner, angle, and dimension of the ship is viewable. With various close-up views, and each 3D image based on actual technical scale drawings and photographs, this makes an exceptional reference tool. Information on the design, development and combat history of each vessel is also included, as well as numerous photographs and 1/350th scale drawings.