The later phase deliberately closes the engagement from about 40 to 30 kilometres, even though Tirpitz's thinner simulated armour makes a long-range kill possible. Tirpitz turns away and survives long enough for its 15-inch guns to return fire. One hit damages the British ship's steering, showing that the German battery remains dangerous once the range advantage is surrendered. The British 5.25-inch battery joins the action as the distance falls, while repeated 14-inch fire destroys Tirpitz's main guns. Tirpitz still has flotation when its fighting power collapses, then sinks while the British ship is left needing damage control. Long reach protects the British design only while its captain uses it.
Notable Point · 49:29-54:42
Tirpitz returns fire after the range closes
Closing from about 40 to 30 kilometres lets Tirpitz score a steering hit, but repeated British fire destroys its main guns and sinks it.