HMS Black Swan began the war providing anti-aircraft cover for landings, where a bomb passed through her small hull before exploding beyond it. She returned to escort duty in June 1940, only to suffer mine damage in November and remain under repair until May 1941. Further bombing in August caused lighter damage, after which she joined the 37th Escort Group at Londonderry. A sloop that could absorb damage, be repaired, and re-enter the escort force had considerable operational value. Her career shows why survivability includes repairability and availability as well as avoiding hits.
Chapter · 8:55-10:37
HMS Black Swan survives repeated wartime damage
Bomb, mine, and further air-attack damage repeatedly sent HMS Black Swan for repair, yet the sloop kept returning to escort service.