How a decoy Arctic convoy lured a lethal German battleship to its final end
In short: In December 1943, the German battleship Scharnhorst attempted to attack Allied Arctic convoys. Instead, it fell into a trap set by British naval forces. This account explores the tactical engagement that resulted in the destruction of one of Germany's most formidable naval assets during the Second World War.
On Boxing Day 1943, Vice Admiral Robert Burnett was stationed in Soviet Russia aboard HMS Belfast after completing an escort mission. Intelligence from the Admiralty in London revealed that the Scharnhorst, accompanied by five destroyers, had departed from a base in Norway to intercept Allied ships. The convoys served as bait, drawing the German vessel out for a decisive confrontation.
The ensuing Battle of North Cape marked the end of the Scharnhorst, which was considered the final ship of its class. The engagement shifted the focus of HMS Belfast and its accompanying fleet from a routine return journey to an active combat operation against a high-priority target.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Battle of North Cape: HMS Belfast and the sinking of the Scharnhorst
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