Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:11:31-1:15:23

HMS Frobisher moved from training to ocean escort and Normandy

A compact operational history follows the Hawkins-class cruiser from training ship to Indian Ocean escort and Normandy gunfire support.

Hawkins Class Heavy CruisersHMS FrobisherNaval Gunfire SupportOperation NeptuneRoyal Navy
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Question

What did HMS Frobisher do during the Second World War?

Short answer

After training duties, Frobisher served with the Eastern Fleet, supported Sword Beach during Operation Neptune, survived a German torpedo attack, and returned to training service after repair.

Notes

Frobisher retained her 7.5-inch guns while receiving radar, anti-aircraft weapons, and antisubmarine equipment. She escorted with the Eastern Fleet in the Indian Ocean and towed HMS Triumphant after typhoon damage in 1943. During Operation Neptune she joined the bombardment force supporting Sword Beach. German human torpedoes damaged her off Normandy in August 1944, after which repair was combined with conversion back to a training role.