Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:58:58-1:59:28

If Hood's opening salvo hit Prinz Eugen

An early hit on Prinz Eugen could force Bismarck to choose between protecting her consort and abandoning her to British cruisers.

Alternate HistoryCounty Class CruisersDenmark StraitGerman Battleship BismarckHMS HoodPrinz Eugen
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Question

How might Denmark Strait change if Hood's first salvo hit Prinz Eugen?

Short answer

Prinz Eugen would be in serious trouble, forcing Bismarck either to slow down or leave her exposed to the pursuing County-class cruisers.

Notes

If Hood's opening salvo struck Prinz Eugen, the German cruiser would immediately be in serious trouble. Bismarck would then have to choose between slowing to protect her consort and leaving her behind. Abandonment would expose Prinz Eugen to the pursuing County-class cruisers. The changed opening could therefore divide the German force and hand the British cruisers a vulnerable target.