Q&A · 1:47:59-1:48:34

What wreck imagery can reveal about torpedo damage

Royal Oak imagery shows how underwater surveys can expose torpedo holes, while Bismarck's resting position and buried waterline obstruct the same kind of assessment.

Question

Can wreck imagery show the torpedo damage to Royal Oak and Bismarck?

Short answer

Royal Oak's holes are visible, but Bismarck's buried waterline prevents a comparable inspection of much of the relevant hull.

Notes

The newly discussed Royal Oak images make the torpedo openings clearly visible while much of the wreck remains recognizable. A comparable survey might test claims about torpedo hits on Bismarck. Bismarck's slide down an underwater slope and present orientation complicate that comparison. Her waterline and lower hull are embedded in sediment, hiding the precise areas a damage survey would need to inspect.