At Denmark Strait, Lütjens delayed fire and refused a pursuit

The appearance of Hood contradicted German intelligence and reinforced Lütjens's fear that further British forces might be near. He initially turned away to gain time and held Bismarck's main guns while the range fell, mindful of the heavy ammunition expenditure during Operation Berlin. He allowed Prinz Eugen to remain in the battle line against normal doctrine so both German ships could maximize firepower. After Hood exploded, he rejected Lindemann's call to pursue Prince of Wales. A chase would keep the damaged German force close to broadcasting cruisers and the battleship while King George V, Victorious, and other units converged. Avoiding a prolonged pursuit preserved the remaining possibility of continuing the mission or bringing the damaged force home.