Q&A · 2:14:23-2:14:58

How an engine-room bomb hit could doom Admiral Graf Spee

A 1,000-pound semi-armour-piercing bomb might not destroy every engine, but it could remove the speed needed to escape.

Admiral Graf Spee Marine Diesel Naval Aviation Warship Damage

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Question

Could a 1,000-pound bomb in Admiral Graf Spee's forward diesel room knock out her propulsion?

Short answer

It might not stop the entire plant, but the lost speed and manoeuvrability could leave her a sitting target.

Notes

Penetrating the forward diesel room would reduce propulsion and manoeuvrability even if other machinery survived. Once slowed, the ship becomes easier for British cruisers to catch and for carrier aircraft to attack again.