Intro
Discover the history of HMS Queen Elizabeth WW2, a British Royal Navy battleship that played a pivotal role in World War II. Learn about its specifications, achievements, and significance in naval warfare, including its involvement in the Battle of Jutland and Mediterranean operations. Get the facts about this iconic warships legacy.
HMS Queen Elizabeth, a renowned British battleship, played a pivotal role in World War II. Despite being launched in 1913, the ship's remarkable service and upgrades enabled it to remain a formidable force throughout the war. Here are five key facts about HMS Queen Elizabeth during World War II:
Early War Years and the Mediterranean
HMS Queen Elizabeth was one of the five Queen Elizabeth-class battleships built by the Royal Navy in the early 20th century. At the outbreak of World War II, the ship was already 26 years old but had undergone significant modernization, including the installation of new anti-aircraft guns and improved armor. Initially, HMS Queen Elizabeth served in the Mediterranean, where she played a key role in the Battle of Cape Matapan in March 1941, helping to sink three Italian heavy cruisers and two destroyers.
The Siege of Tobruk and Supporting Allied Forces
In June 1942, HMS Queen Elizabeth arrived in Egypt to support the besieged city of Tobruk, which was under attack by German and Italian forces. As part of the Allied effort to relieve the city, the battleship provided crucial naval gunfire support, helping to repel enemy attacks and ultimately contributing to the city's liberation. Throughout the North African Campaign, HMS Queen Elizabeth played a vital role in supporting Allied ground forces, using her heavy guns to bombard enemy positions and providing anti-aircraft defense.
Bomb Damage and Repairs
In December 1941, while anchored in Alexandria harbor, HMS Queen Elizabeth was severely damaged by Italian frogmen, who planted explosives on the ship's hull. The resulting blast caused significant damage, flooding the ship's engine and boiler rooms. Despite this, the ship's crew managed to save her from sinking, and she was eventually towed to the United States for repairs. The extensive repairs, which took several months to complete, ensured the battleship's continued service throughout the war.
**Later War Years and Service in the Far East
After her repairs, HMS Queen Elizabeth returned to service in July 1943, joining the Eastern Fleet in the Indian Ocean. As part of the Allied effort to push back against Japanese forces in Southeast Asia, the battleship participated in several operations, including the Battle of Sabang in July 1944 and the bombardment of Japanese positions in Burma (now Myanmar) in January 1945. Her service in the Far East continued until the end of the war, when she sailed to Japan as part of the Allied occupation forces.
Post-War Fate
After the war, HMS Queen Elizabeth returned to the United Kingdom, where she was eventually scrapped in 1955. Her service during World War II, spanning over five years and numerous campaigns, had taken its toll on the ship. Despite this, her legacy as a stalwart battleship and symbol of British naval power during the war remains remembered.
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HMS Queen Elizabeth WW2 Image Gallery
