Early radar did not make a night duel with Bismarck the safer choice

Why did Hood and Prince of Wales not wait for darkness and use radar against Bismarck?

Their radar was still new and less reliable than visual fire control, while weather, pursuit conditions, and ship roles favoured a daylight engagement.

Carrying radar did not yet justify making it the sole foundation of a night gunnery duel. Hood's Type 284 and Type 279 installations were recent, while Prince of Wales also suffered unreliable equipment during her early service. Bad weather, the chase, and the proven reliability of visual systems all favoured a daylight engagement. Hood's fast battlecruiser role also differed from the Nelson class's deliberate suitability for close night fighting. The same sensor fit could not erase differences in ship design and tactical purpose.