HMS Ladybird had to be stripped and towed from Singapore toward the Mediterranean because the old shallow-draft hull was poorly suited to an ocean crossing. Damage during the journey limited her to seven knots, yet she bombarded Bardia during Operation Compass and landed Royal Marines on Kastellorizo during Operation Abstention. She later supported Tobruk by shelling Gazala airfield and ferrying supplies until dive bombers set her on fire in shallow water. The wreck remained above the surface, so her three-inch gun continued serving as an anti-aircraft weapon.
Chapter · 40:29-42:03
HMS Ladybird supports Bardia, Kastellorizo, and Tobruk
Ladybird's Mediterranean service demonstrates the class's value in bombardment and amphibious support despite age, low speed, and air vulnerability.