Force F passed through the Sicilian Channel at night during Operation Crack. An Italian submarine fired at the force, but its torpedo detonated prematurely. A successful torpedo attack depended on impact angle, speed and depth, working mechanisms, and the effects of tides and currents. The force's battleship then made a short stop at Malta before leaving with Ajax, Sydney, destroyers and freighters in the early afternoon.
Chapter · 0:45-2:25
Force F passes through the Sicilian Channel
A failed Italian submarine attack and a rapid Malta turnaround allowed Force F to continue through the central Mediterranean.