Surcouf escapes Brest but its British seizure causes deaths

Surcouf was the world's largest submarine at the time and became a prestige asset for the Free French, including in operations to bring French territories under their control. It escaped Brest during a refit despite being unable to dive, having only one working engine and a jammed rudder. Its seizure at Plymouth during Operation Catapult caused deaths on both sides. Most other French crews had received indications that British troops would board, through conversations, ship movements and increased security around them. Surcouf's violent boarding exposed the danger of hurried decisions while a powerful allied fleet sat in British ports under uncertain political orders.