Q&A · 2:02:15-2:03:34

If Hood survived the Denmark Strait hit

A badly damaged but still firing Hood would fall out of line while Prince of Wales, cruisers, and approaching destroyers discouraged a German finishing attack.

Question

How would Britain recover if Hood were crippled but not destroyed at Denmark Strait?

Short answer

Hood would drop out and be towed home while Prince of Wales and nearby forces kept the Germans from closing for the kill.

Notes

A damaged Hood would slow and fall out of the line while Prince of Wales continued firing. British cruisers and approaching destroyers would add to the risk of a German turn back toward the crippled ship. Bismarck and Prinz Eugen would therefore be more likely to continue their mission than circle for a finishing attack. Once the action passed, Hood could receive assistance and be towed to harbor. The counterfactual depends on Hood remaining able to fire and on the rest of the British force still presenting a threat.