Britain pressed Norway to stop Altmark while Germany pressed the neutral government to let her pass. Each inspection made Altmark's captain more irate and prompted further radio complaints from territorial waters, despite instructions not to transmit there. The diplomatic exchange may have bought Britain time, and the radio traffic may have exposed the ship's position. Hudson aircraft then located her, allowing the nearest cruiser and destroyers to investigate.
Chapter · 44:46-46:28
Diplomacy and radio traffic close the net
British and German pressure on Norway, repeated radio messages, and aerial sightings bring Altmark within reach of the intercepting force.