Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - the Battle of Matapan 1 MAP (B) RITISH B an 28-29 MARCH 1941 an 28-29 MARCH AP T MA TTLE of the BA

28 - 29 MARCH 1941 BATTLE OF MATAPAN NAVAL HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF AUSTRALIA INC INVOLVING Patron: Chief of Navy HMA SHIPS, PERTH, STUART AND VENDETTA THE SOCIETY On 25 May 1970, the 348th anniversary of the arrival of the first British ship on the Australian PART 1 DAY ACTION coast, some forty men and women attended a meeting at Garden Island, Sydney, New South Wales, with the common purpose of forming a Naval Historical Society. The Naval Historical REFER MAP (B) MEDITERRANEAN SEA Society of Australia Inc., founded in 1970, is a cultural organisation which exists for the benefit of its members and the community to pursue these aims and objectives. LISTING (C) SHIPS INVOLVED AlMS and OBJECTIVES Following a marked increase of Italian air reconnaissance from 25 March, to the south and west Ä To research, record and collate the history of all Navies but,in particular, that of the ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY. of Greece and Crete and over the fleet base of Alexandria, in Egypt, impending action on the Ä To encourage and support Naval Museums. enemys part was indicated, so Admiral Sir A B Cunningham KGB, DSO, (C-in-C) began to Ä To promote and uphold the prestige, dignity and traditions of the NAVAL SERVICES. clear the area of convoys. In particular, those northbound to Greece, the current Athens convoy, were turned about 180 degrees after sunset to lay a trap and entice the Italians to probe further Membership of the Society is open to all who subscribe to these aims and objectives. south east, after their evening reconnaissance aircraft had regarded it northbound! The Society also extends its facilities to regional Naval and Maritime organisations throughout Australia. Patrolling in the Aegean Sea, under Vice Admiral N D Pridham-Wippell CB, CVO, was the 7th A number of Maritime and History organisations are affiliated with THE NAVAL HISTORICAL Cruiser Squadron consisting of the ships ORION (flagship), AJAX, PERTH and GLOUCESTER, SOCIETY as well as some libraries and universities. History is enjoying a renaissance in Australia. together with the destroyers ILEX, HASTY, HEREWARD and VENDETTA, which were Throughout the country people are tracing their ancestors, delving into the history of their houses and their towns, exploring the development of social institutions and recording their own stories for posterity. instructed to be to the southward of Gavdhos Island (south of Crete) at daylight on 28 March. Many of these stories will have Naval connections. Naval History is an integral part of Australian REFER DIAGRAM (D) VITTORIO VENETO history,and whatever your interest, the SOCIETY has something for you. The Italian fleet, also at sea, under C-in-C Admiral Angelo Iachino, in the battleship VITTORIA THE NAVAL HISTORICAL SOCIETY of AUSTR4LIA Inc., PRESERVING NAVAL HISTORY VENETO (35,000 tons, 9 x 15" guns and capable of the high speed of 30 knots), consisted of a MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS destroyer screen to his flagship, plus two separate cruiser squadrons, with their own destroyer As a member you will receive the March, June, September and December issue of Naval Historical screens. Review, the magazine of The Naval Historical Society of Australia Inc., which is published quarterly. It The first report of the enemy at sea off SE Sicily came from a Sunderland flying boat at 1230 on provides information on the activities of the Society and its members, notices of coming events, articles of general historical interests and issues of concern to historians, news from the Chapters, affiliated 27 March. After enemy air reconnaissance over Alexandria in the afternoon, under the cover of societies’ network and book reviews. The journal of the Naval Historical Society of Australia Inc., is the dusk, Cunningham, with his flag in the battleship WARSPITE, together with the battleships only published Australian journal of Naval history and is distributed internationally. BARHAM and VALIANT, (each mounting 8 x 15" guns), the aircraft carrier FORMIDABLE and destroyers JERVIS (Capt Mack 0/C 14 Flotilla), JANUS, NUBIAN, MOHAWK, Members are entitled to the free use of The N H S library which contains both written and pictorial GREYHOUND, GRIFFIN, HOTSPUR, HAVOCK and STUART (Capt H M L Waller 0/C 10 resources on all aspects of Naval history. The library specialises in Naval history, in particular the Australian Navy, and is developing a computerised data base. The Society has a good photographic Flotilla), put to sea to rendezvous with Pridbam-Wippell’s cruisers at 1700 on 28 March. collection which will be included in the data base. A program of events including lectures, excursions to REFER PHOTO (E) HMAS STUART, HMS GREYHOUND/GRIFFIN sites of historical interest and visits to Naval establishments and ships is offered to members. REFER MAP (F) BATTLE OF MATAPAN NATIONAL OFFICE About 0745 of 28 March, Pridham-Wippell, in ORION, leading his 7th Cruiser Squadron, sighted an enemy cruiser force south of Gavdhos Island. This first enemy cruiser force consisted of the three heavy cruisers, TRENTO, TRISTE and BOLZANO (each 10,000 tons, 8 x 8" guns and an Building 25, The Boathouse, Garden Island, Sydney, N.S.W. 2011, incredible top speed of 36 knots). The enemy opened fire at 0812 at a range of 28,000 yards, Australia Phone: (02) 9359 2372.( Tues & Thurs.) Fax: (02) 9359 2383 approx 14 miles, but at 0855 the action was broken off. Email:[email protected] German aircraft reported the British battle fleet at 0900, but Iachino thought it was a case of mistaken identity of his fleet. 12 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 1 MAP (B) RITISH B AN 28-29 MARCH 1941 AN 28-29 MARCH AP T MA TTLE OF THE BA

HMAS PERTH ALIAN T I

2 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 11 were about to re-engage the enemy. Meantime, VENDETTA, in experiencing engine trouble, was ordered back to Alexandria. At 0020/29 March, the destroyer JERVIS found POLA still afloat and going alongside, was able The disposition of the three enemy forces was confused by such various reportings, that could to take off most of the cruiser’s remaining complement. At 0410, JERVIS sank POLA by have been the British ships. However, shortly after 1100, interception signals by Pridham-Wippell torpedoes, having previously sunk ZARA by similar means. to his cruisers, At daybreak, many survivors were picked up, but the rescue had to be broken off, due to German "Make smoke by all available means. Turn together to 180 degrees. Proceed at dive-bomber attacks on FORMIDABLE. PERTH, together with all other ships, in a tight AA your utmost speed." screening formation, put up a terrific umbrella barrage over FORMIDABLE, thus protecting the was a clear indication to Cunningham that the enemy battle fleet had been sighted. fleet from damage. At 1058, Cunningham was advised of two enemy battleships, when actually, there was only one. As the British fleet had to leave many Italian survivors in the water, Cunningham sent a signal to Likewise, Iachino was not aware that the British battle fleet was at sea, nor of the possibility that the Italian C-in-C, on the mercantile radio distress wave: his second northern group of cruisers, ZARA, POLA and FIUME (each 10,000 tons, 8 x 8" guns ‘Have been endeavouring to pick up your survivors from last night’s action but and 32 knots), plus two light cruisers, GARIBALDI and ABRUZZI (7,874 tons, 10 x 6" guns forced to abandon them due to heavy boubing attacks. If you send fast hospital and 35 knots) were in a position to cut Pridham-Wippell off from Cunningham. ship to pssition Lat .. Long .. it will be given safe conduct.’ The British cruisers were speeding southwards at 31 knots, now pursued by the enemy battleship The reply came back: VENETO, at about the same speed. The cruisers were straddled by fire, but luckily avoided ‘Thank you, this will be done.’ being hit. PERTH was pouring forth smoke from her funnels and dropping smoke floats, creating a grey wall to screen her from the enemy. At 1127, aircraft from FORMIDABLE launched an with the hospital ship GRADISCA eventually saving a further 160 men. attack on VENETO, but no hits were made. Cunningham reached Alexandria in the forenoon of 30 March and PERTH, AJAX, STUART However, Iachino, now aware that a British carrier was about, immediately broke off the action and GRIFFIN resumed convoy work in the Aegean. and turned to the NW at 28 knots, much to the relief of PERTH with her adjoining cruisers. PERTH and AJAX were kept on this patrol, using Piraeus and Suda Bay in Crete for replenishment At 1200 (noon), Pridham-Widdell’s cruiser squadron joined the battle fleet to Cunningham’s until after 6 April, when Germany invaded Greece and Piraeus became unusable. Refuelling signal "Come under the umbrella", with all ships turning north, forming up on the battleships, was then only possible from a tanker in Suda Bay. with FORMIDABLE later moving to last in line for independent manoeuvering in flying off In the ensuing Crete campaign, in one day, Cunningham was to suffer Naval losses representing aircraft. Prepare to abandon Crete operation 25% of ships under his command. On receipt of an advice ‘ ’, By 1230, a chase had developed, after VENETO, with Pridham-Wippell in the van of it takes 3 years to build a ship but 300 to Cunningham, in standing fast, included in a reply ‘ Cunningham’s battle fleet, which was travelling at 22 knots, whilst VENETO was being subjected wipe out a tarnished tradition ’. to continuing air attacks, aided by RAF aircraft and Fleet Air Arm planes from Maleme, in This gives an insight into a great Admiral, who was an inspiration to all under his command in Crete. that terrible ordeal; and indeed, in the inspiring annals of Naval tradition. At 1515, further attacks by aircraft from FORMIDABLE resulted in a torpedo hit above the port So ended the Battle of Matapan. screw of VENETO, causing her to reduce speed, whilst the run continued. The Italians lost 3 x 8" gun heavy cruisers, ZARA, POLA and FIUME and the two destroyers At 1700, the enemy cruisers ZARA, POLA and FIUME, turned about to give VENETO close ALFIBRI and CARDUCCI (1,729 tons, 4 x 4.7" guns, 6 x 21" torpedo tubes and 39 knots) and support. about 2,400 personnel. The British lost 5 aircraft, the crew of one being saved. The success of the Allied ships at the Battle of Matapan, of which PERTH and STUART had been privileged to play so vital a part, no doubt acted as a big deterrent to the Italian Fleet to again venture to sea in force.

WARSPITE - Battleship (GB)

BARHAM - Batleship (GB)

10 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 3 LISTING (C) THE BATTLE OF MATAPAN PART 2 NIGHT ACTION 28-29 MARCH 1941 British Warships At 1915, more accurate reports were received of the enemy now proceeding WNW in five columns, (a) Battleships 2nd Destroyer Flotilla at 15 knots, about 45 miles from WARSPITE. More attacks took place by aircraft from ILEX 1,370 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch. FORMIDABLE, hitting and stopping the cruiser POLA, about 1940. WARSPITE 30,600 tons, 24 knots, eight 15-inch, eight 6- Captain H St L Nicholson DSO. inch. HASTY 1,340 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch. Cunningham now had to face a decision of permitting the enemy to escape or accept a night Flagship of Commander-in-Chief, Lieutenant-Commander L R K Tyrwhitt. action. Mediterranean. HEREWARD 1,340 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch. Admiral Sir Andrew Cunningham KCD, DSO. Lieutenant T F P U Page. At 2040, Cunningham decided to attack, with STUART and HAVOCK to starboard and Captain D B Fisher CBE. HAVOCK 1,340 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch. GREYHOUND and GRIFFIN to port of his battle force. Other destroyers moved forward to BARHAM 31,000 tons, 24 knots, eight 15-inch, twelve Lieutenant G R G Watkins. 6-inch. HOTSPUR 1,340 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch, one 3-inch attack, whilst Pridham-Wippell's cruisers steered northwards to try and cut off the enemy. Flagship of Rear-Admiral 1st Battle Squadron. HA. Rear-Admiral H B Rawlings OBE. Lieutenant-Commander C P F Brown DSC. At 2130, Iachino, believing the British battle fleet to be 90 miles astern, when actually they were Captain G C Cooke. less than half that distance, detached the cruisers ZARA and FIUME and four destroyers and Italian Warships VALIANT 31,520 tons, 24 knots, eight 15-inch, twenty sent them back to find the damaged POLA. 4.5-inch. (a) Battleship Captain C E Morgan DSO. VITTORIO VENETO 35,000 tons, 30.5 knots, nine 15-inch, At 2210, VALIANT, the only battleship with radar, picked up the POLA at 6 miles on the port (b) Aircraft Carriers twelve 6-inch. bow. Cunningham altered course and unexpectedly, at 2225, following a report from STUART Flagship of Commander-in-Chief. FORMIDABLE 23,000 tons, 30.5 knots, sixteen 4.5-inch. at 2223 of two large ships and destroyers 2 miles ahead, sighted the ZARA and FIUME crossing Admiral A Iachino. Flagship of Rear-Admiral (Air) his bows from starboard to port, at a distance of 4 miles. Rear-Admiral D W Boyd CBE, DSC (b) Cruisers Captain A W la T Bisset. 3rd Division Cunningham turned his battle fleet back into line ahead and when the range was only 3,800 (c) Aircraft Squadrons TRIESTE 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. yards, just under 2 miles, the unsuspecting enemy cruisers were illuminated by searchlights and Flagship of Vice-Admiral L sansonetti. 803 (FORMIDABLE) Lieutenant K M Bruen then the 15" guns of WARSPITE, BARHAM and VALIANT pounded the enemy into shattered, TRENTO 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. 826 (FORMIDABLE) Lieutenant-Commander W H G Saunt BOLZANO 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. blazing wrecks, within 5 minutes. 829 (FORMIDABLE) Lieutenant-Commander J Dayell-Stead 1st Division 815 (FORMIDABLE) Lieutenant F M A Torrens-Spence (Sunk) ZARA 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. At 2230, the enemy destroyers attacked with torpedoes and the battle fleet turned 90 degrees to (d) Cruisers Flagship of Vice-Admiral C Cattaneo. starboard, whilst the British destroyers counter-attacked. ORION 7,215 tons, 32.5 knots, eight 6-inch. Captain L Cossi. Flagship of Vice-Admiral Light Forces. (Sunk) FIUME 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. The battle fleet reformed in line-ahead on a northerly course and the four screening destroyers Vice-Admiral H D Pridham-Wippell CB, CVO Captain G Giorgis. were released to sink the two damaged cruisers, with FIUME sinking at 2315. FORMIDABLE Captain G R B Back. (Sunk) POLA 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. had kept well to the NE, away from the close combat. AJAX 6,985 tons, 32.5 knots, eight 6-inch. Captain M de Pisa. Captain E D B McCarthy. 8th Division REFER MAP (G), ACTION BY HMAS STUART PERTH 7,165 tons, 32.5 knots, eight 6-inch. ABRUZZI 7,874 tons, 35 knots, ten 6-inch. Captain Sir P W Bowyer-Smyth Bart. Flagship of Vice-Admiral A Legnani. For the next hour, the British destroyers had an exciting time. STUART, in particular, opened GLOUCESTER 9,600 tons, 32.5 knots, twelve 6-inch. GARIBALDI 7,874 tons, 35 knots, ten 6-inch. Captain H A Rowley. fire on one of the enemy cruisers at 2231, possibly the FIUME and a following enemy destroyer, (c) Destroyers CARDUCCI, at 2234. A second destroyer was fired upon at 2241, followed by firing all her (e) Destroyers 6th Destroyer Flotilla 14th Destroyer Flotilla DA RECCO 1,628 tons, 39 knots, six 4.7-inch. torpedoes on a second enemy cruiser at 2300, presumably the stopped POLA. Almost immediately, JERVIS 1,760 tons, 36 knots, six 4.7-inch, one 4-inch PESSAGNO 1,628 tons, 39 knots, six 4.7-inch. at 2301, STUART engaged with gunfire, a third cruiser, thought to be ZARA. Even an unknown HA 9th Destroyer Flotilla cruiser was attacked at 2305! Captain P J Mack DSO. GIOBERTI 1,568 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. JANUS 1,760 tons, 36 knots, six 4.7-inch, one 4-inch (Sunk) ALFIERI 1,568 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. A few minutes later, STUART was to narrowly miss colliding with the enemy destroyer ALFIERI, HA ORIANI 1,568 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. which was later to be sunk by HAVOCK, following behind. Also, a few more salvos were fired Lieutenant L R P Lawford. (Sunk) CARDUCCI 1,568 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. MOHAWK 1,870 tons, 36.5 knots, eight 4.7 inch. 10th Destroyer Flotilla into ZARA at 2315. Commander J W M Eaton. MAESTRALE 1,449 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. NUBIAN 1,870 tons, 36.5 knots, eight 4.7 inch. LIBECCIO 1,449 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. While retiring, an enemy cruiser was engaged at 2330, perhaps FIUME again! Commander R W Ravenhill SCIROCCO 1,449 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. It was later known that the two enemy destroyers ORIANI and GIOBERTI passed through the 10th Destroyer Flotilla GREGALE 1,449 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. STUART 1,530 tons, 36.5 knots, five 4.7-inch, one 3- 12th Destroyer Flotilla area at the time and escaped undamaged; so altogether, it was a rather confusing melee by inch HA. CORAZZIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. STUART, but to which Cunningham referred to in his despatch by saying: Captain H M L Waller DSO, RAN. CARABINIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. GREYHOUND 1,335 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch, one 3-inch ASCARI 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. 'they (STUART and HAVOCK) had an exciting night and did considerable HA 13th Destroyer Flotilla execution’. Commander W R Marshall-A’Deane DSC. GRANATIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. GRIFFIN 1,335 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch, one 3-inch FUCILIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. At 2318, Cunningham ordered "forces not engaged to retire to the NE", which unfortunately HA BERSAGLIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. was accepted by Pridham-Wippell to also mean his cruisers, thus pulling back, just when they Lieutenant-Commander J Lee-Barber DSO. ALPINO 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. 4 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 9 MAP (G) DIAGRAM (D) (LITTORIO CLASS - 4 SHIPS)

LITTORIO (Aug 27 1937), VITTORIO VENETO (July 25 1937), IMPERO (Nov 15 1939) ROMA (June 12 1940). Standard displacement: 35,000 tons. Complement: 1,600. Length: 754¼ (pp), 762½ (wl), 775 feet (oa). Beam: 106½ feet. Draught: 28 feet (mean), 30½ (max). Guns: Aircraft: 3 Armour: 9 - 15 inch, 50 cal Catapults: 2 9 - 12" belt 12 - 6 inch, 55 cal 12 - 3.5 inch AA, 48 cal 40 MG AA

Machinery: Parsons geared turbines. 4 shafts. SHP: 130,000 = 30 kts (exceeded on trials.) High pressure water-tube boilers of 3-drum type. Oil fuel. Name Builder Laid down Completed Littorio Ansaldo 28 Oct 1934 1 May 1940 Vittorio Veneto CRDA, San Marco, Trieste 28 Oct 1934 30 April 1940 Roma CRDA, San Marco, Trieste 18 Sept 1938 Impero Ansaldo 14 May 1938 Note: designed by Engineer Inspector-General Umberto Pugliese. Though trials of these ships T AN started in Dec 1939, it was not until four of five months later that delivery was accepted from AP

T builders. Special Note One of these ships was torpedoed and completely disabled in November 1940 at Taranto. (destroyer) TTLE OF MA 28-29 MARCH 1941 28-29 MARCH Action by HMAS STUAR Action by HMAS THE BA

LITTORIO 1940

8 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 5 PHOTO (E) MAP (F)

HMS GREYHOUND (Destroyers) 4 x 4.7" guns HMS GRIFFIN 36 knots 8 x 21" torpedoes

GEYHOUND 1936 racks T AN 28-29 MARCH 1941 AP T Combined of British and Italian Fleets TTLE OF MA THE BA

HMAS STUART 1,530 tons 36½ knots 5 x 4.7" guns 6 x 21" TT

6 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 7 PHOTO (E) MAP (F)

HMS GREYHOUND (Destroyers) 4 x 4.7" guns HMS GRIFFIN 36 knots 8 x 21" torpedoes

GEYHOUND 1936 racks T AN 28-29 MARCH 1941 AP T Combined of British and Italian Fleets TTLE OF MA THE BA

HMAS STUART 1,530 tons 36½ knots 5 x 4.7" guns 6 x 21" TT

6 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 7 MAP (G) DIAGRAM (D) (LITTORIO CLASS - 4 SHIPS)

Machinery: Parsons geared turbines. 4 shafts. SHP: 130,000 = 30 kts (exceeded on trials.) High pressure water-tube boilers of 3-drum type. Oil fuel. Name Builder Laid down Completed Littorio Ansaldo 28 Oct 1934 1 May 1940 Vittorio Veneto CRDA, San Marco, Trieste 28 Oct 1934 30 April 1940 Roma CRDA, San Marco, Trieste 18 Sept 1938 Impero Ansaldo 14 May 1938 Note: designed by Engineer Inspector-General Umberto Pugliese. Though trials of these ships started in Dec 1939, it was not until four of five months later that delivery was accepted from builders. Special Note One of these ships was torpedoed and completely disabled in November 1940 at Taranto.

LITTORIO 1940

8 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 5 LISTING (C) THE BATTLE OF MATAPAN PART 2 NIGHT ACTION 28-29 MARCH 1941 British Warships At 1915, more accurate reports were received of the enemy now proceeding WNW in five columns, (a) Battleships 2nd Destroyer Flotilla at 15 knots, about 45 miles from WARSPITE. More attacks took place by aircraft from ILEX 1,370 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch. FORMIDABLE, hitting and stopping the cruiser POLA, about 1940. WARSPITE 30,600 tons, 24 knots, eight 15-inch, eight 6- Captain H St L Nicholson DSO. inch. HASTY 1,340 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch. Cunningham now had to face a decision of permitting the enemy to escape or accept a night Flagship of Commander-in-Chief, Lieutenant-Commander L R K Tyrwhitt. action. Mediterranean. HEREWARD 1,340 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch. Admiral Sir Andrew Cunningham KCD, DSO. Lieutenant T F P U Page. At 2040, Cunningham decided to attack, with STUART and HAVOCK to starboard and Captain D B Fisher CBE. HAVOCK 1,340 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch. GREYHOUND and GRIFFIN to port of his battle force. Other destroyers moved forward to BARHAM 31,000 tons, 24 knots, eight 15-inch, twelve Lieutenant G R G Watkins. 6-inch. HOTSPUR 1,340 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch, one 3-inch attack, whilst Pridham-Wippell's cruisers steered northwards to try and cut off the enemy. Flagship of Rear-Admiral 1st Battle Squadron. HA. Rear-Admiral H B Rawlings OBE. Lieutenant-Commander C P F Brown DSC. At 2130, Iachino, believing the British battle fleet to be 90 miles astern, when actually they were Captain G C Cooke. less than half that distance, detached the cruisers ZARA and FIUME and four destroyers and Italian Warships VALIANT 31,520 tons, 24 knots, eight 15-inch, twenty sent them back to find the damaged POLA. 4.5-inch. (a) Battleship Captain C E Morgan DSO. VITTORIO VENETO 35,000 tons, 30.5 knots, nine 15-inch, At 2210, VALIANT, the only battleship with radar, picked up the POLA at 6 miles on the port (b) Aircraft Carriers twelve 6-inch. bow. Cunningham altered course and unexpectedly, at 2225, following a report from STUART Flagship of Commander-in-Chief. FORMIDABLE 23,000 tons, 30.5 knots, sixteen 4.5-inch. at 2223 of two large ships and destroyers 2 miles ahead, sighted the ZARA and FIUME crossing Admiral A Iachino. Flagship of Rear-Admiral (Air) his bows from starboard to port, at a distance of 4 miles. Rear-Admiral D W Boyd CBE, DSC (b) Cruisers Captain A W la T Bisset. 3rd Division Cunningham turned his battle fleet back into line ahead and when the range was only 3,800 (c) Aircraft Squadrons TRIESTE 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. yards, just under 2 miles, the unsuspecting enemy cruisers were illuminated by searchlights and Flagship of Vice-Admiral L sansonetti. 803 (FORMIDABLE) Lieutenant K M Bruen then the 15" guns of WARSPITE, BARHAM and VALIANT pounded the enemy into shattered, TRENTO 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. 826 (FORMIDABLE) Lieutenant-Commander W H G Saunt BOLZANO 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. blazing wrecks, within 5 minutes. 829 (FORMIDABLE) Lieutenant-Commander J Dayell-Stead 1st Division 815 (FORMIDABLE) Lieutenant F M ATorrens-Spence (Sunk) ZARA 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. At 2230, the enemy destroyers attacked with torpedoes and the battle fleet turned 90 degrees to (d) Cruisers Flagship of Vice-Admiral C Cattaneo. starboard, whilst the British destroyers counter-attacked. ORION 7,215 tons, 32.5 knots, eight 6-inch. Captain L Cossi. Flagship of Vice-Admiral Light Forces. (Sunk) FIUME 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. The battle fleet reformed in line-ahead on a northerly course and the four screening destroyers Vice-Admiral H D Pridham-Wippell CB, CVO Captain G Giorgis. were released to sink the two damaged cruisers, with FIUME sinking at 2315. FORMIDABLE Captain G R B Back. (Sunk) POLA 10,000 tons, 32 knots, eight 8-inch. had kept well to the NE, away from the close combat. AJAX 6,985 tons, 32.5 knots, eight 6-inch. Captain M de Pisa. Captain E D B McCarthy. 8th Division REFER MAP (G), ACTION BY HMAS STUART PERTH 7,165 tons, 32.5 knots, eight 6-inch. ABRUZZI 7,874 tons, 35 knots, ten 6-inch. Captain Sir P W Bowyer-Smyth Bart. Flagship of Vice-Admiral A Legnani. For the next hour, the British destroyers had an exciting time. STUART, in particular, opened GLOUCESTER 9,600 tons, 32.5 knots, twelve 6-inch. GARIBALDI 7,874 tons, 35 knots, ten 6-inch. Captain H A Rowley. fire on one of the enemy cruisers at 2231, possibly the FIUME and a following enemy destroyer, (c) Destroyers CARDUCCI, at 2234. A second destroyer was fired upon at 2241, followed by firing all her (e) Destroyers 6th Destroyer Flotilla 14th Destroyer Flotilla DA RECCO 1,628 tons, 39 knots, six 4.7-inch. torpedoes on a second enemy cruiser at 2300, presumably the stopped POLA. Almost immediately, JERVIS 1,760 tons, 36 knots, six 4.7-inch, one 4-inch PESSAGNO 1,628 tons, 39 knots, six 4.7-inch. at 2301, STUART engaged with gunfire, a third cruiser, thought to be ZARA. Even an unknown HA 9th Destroyer Flotilla cruiser was attacked at 2305! Captain P J Mack DSO. GIOBERTI 1,568 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. JANUS 1,760 tons, 36 knots, six 4.7-inch, one 4-inch (Sunk) ALFIERI 1,568 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. A few minutes later, STUART was to narrowly miss colliding with the enemy destroyer ALFIERI, HA ORIANI 1,568 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. which was later to be sunk by HAVOCK, following behind. Also, a few more salvos were fired Lieutenant L R P Lawford. (Sunk) CARDUCCI 1,568 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. MOHAWK 1,870 tons, 36.5 knots, eight 4.7 inch. 10th Destroyer Flotilla into ZARA at 2315. Commander J W M Eaton. MAESTRALE 1,449 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. NUBIAN 1,870 tons, 36.5 knots, eight 4.7 inch. LIBECCIO 1,449 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. While retiring, an enemy cruiser was engaged at 2330, perhaps FIUME again! Commander R W Ravenhill SCIROCCO 1,449 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. It was later known that the two enemy destroyers ORIANI and GIOBERTI passed through the 10th Destroyer Flotilla GREGALE 1,449 tons, 39 knots, four 4.7-inch. STUART 1,530 tons, 36.5 knots, five 4.7-inch, one 3- 12th Destroyer Flotilla area at the time and escaped undamaged; so altogether, it was a rather confusing melee by inch HA. CORAZZIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. STUART, but to which Cunningham referred to in his despatch by saying: Captain H M L Waller DSO, RAN. CARABINIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. GREYHOUND 1,335 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch, one 3-inch ASCARI 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. 'they (STUART and HAVOCK) had an exciting night and did considerable HA 13th Destroyer Flotilla execution’. Commander W R Marshall-A’Deane DSC. GRANATIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. GRIFFIN 1,335 tons, 36 knots, four 4.7-inch, one 3-inch FUCILIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. At 2318, Cunningham ordered "forces not engaged to retire to the NE", which unfortunately HA BERSAGLIERE 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. was accepted by Pridham-Wippell to also mean his cruisers, thus pulling back, just when they Lieutenant-Commander J Lee-Barber DSO. ALPINO 1,620 tons, 39 knots, five 4.7-inch. 4 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 9 were about to re-engage the enemy. Meantime, VENDETTA, in experiencing engine trouble, was ordered back to Alexandria. At 0020/29 March, the destroyer JERVIS found POLA still afloat and going alongside, was able The disposition of the three enemy forces was confused by such various reportings, that could to take off most of the cruiser’s remaining complement. At 0410, JERVIS sank POLA by have been the British ships. However, shortly after 1100, interception signals by Pridham-Wippell torpedoes, having previously sunk ZARA by similar means. to his cruisers, At daybreak, many survivors were picked up, but the rescue had to be broken off, due to German "Make smoke by all available means. Turn together to 180 degrees. Proceed at dive-bomber attacks on FORMIDABLE. PERTH, together with all other ships, in a tight AA your utmost speed." screening formation, put up a terrific umbrella barrage over FORMIDABLE, thus protecting the was a clear indication to Cunningham that the enemy battle fleet had been sighted. fleet from damage. At 1058, Cunningham was advised of two enemy battleships, when actually, there was only one. As the British fleet had to leave many Italian survivors in the water, Cunningham sent a signal to Likewise, Iachino was not aware that the British battle fleet was at sea, nor of the possibility that the Italian C-in-C, on the mercantile radio distress wave: his second northern group of cruisers, ZARA, POLA and FIUME (each 10,000 tons, 8 x 8" guns ‘Have been endeavouring to pick up your survivors from last night’s action but and 32 knots), plus two light cruisers, GARIBALDI and ABRUZZI (7,874 tons, 10 x 6" guns forced to abandon them due to heavy boubing attacks. If you send fast hospital and 35 knots) were in a position to cut Pridham-Wippell off from Cunningham. ship to pssition Lat .. Long .. it will be given safe conduct.’ The British cruisers were speeding southwards at 31 knots, now pursued by the enemy battleship The reply came back: VENETO, at about the same speed. The cruisers were straddled by fire, but luckily avoided ‘Thank you, this will be done.’ being hit. PERTH was pouring forth smoke from her funnels and dropping smoke floats, creating a grey wall to screen her from the enemy. At 1127, aircraft from FORMIDABLE launched an with the hospital ship GRADISCA eventually saving a further 160 men. attack on VENETO, but no hits were made. Cunningham reached Alexandria in the forenoon of 30 March and PERTH, AJAX, STUART However, Iachino, now aware that a British carrier was about, immediately broke off the action and GRIFFIN resumed convoy work in the Aegean. and turned to the NW at 28 knots, much to the relief of PERTH with her adjoining cruisers. PERTH and AJAX were kept on this patrol, using Piraeus and Suda Bay in Crete for replenishment At 1200 (noon), Pridham-Widdell’s cruiser squadron joined the battle fleet to Cunningham’s until after 6 April, when Germany invaded Greece and Piraeus became unusable. Refuelling signal "Come under the umbrella", with all ships turning north, forming up on the battleships, was then only possible from a tanker in Suda Bay. with FORMIDABLE later moving to last in line for independent manoeuvering in flying off In the ensuing Crete campaign, in one day, Cunningham was to suffer Naval losses representing aircraft. Prepare to abandon Crete operation 25% of ships under his command. On receipt of an advice ‘ ’, By 1230, a chase had developed, after VENETO, with Pridham-Wippell in the van of it takes 3 years to build a ship but 300 to Cunningham, in standing fast, included in a reply ‘ Cunningham’s battle fleet, which was travelling at 22 knots, whilst VENETO was being subjected wipe out a tarnished tradition ’. to continuing air attacks, aided by RAF aircraft and Fleet Air Arm planes from Maleme, in This gives an insight into a great Admiral, who was an inspiration to all under his command in Crete. that terrible ordeal; and indeed, in the inspiring annals of Naval tradition. At 1515, further attacks by aircraft from FORMIDABLE resulted in a torpedo hit above the port So ended the Battle of Matapan. screw of VENETO, causing her to reduce speed, whilst the run continued. The Italians lost 3 x 8" gun heavy cruisers, ZARA, POLA and FIUME and the two destroyers At 1700, the enemy cruisers ZARA, POLA and FIUME, turned about to give VENETO close ALFIBRI and CARDUCCI (1,729 tons, 4 x 4.7" guns, 6 x 21" torpedo tubes and 39 knots) and support. about 2,400 personnel. The British lost 5 aircraft, the crew of one being saved. The success of the Allied ships at the Battle of Matapan, of which PERTH and STUART had been privileged to play so vital a part, no doubt acted as a big deterrent to the Italian Fleet to again venture to sea in force.

WARSPITE - Battleship (GB)

BARHAM - Batleship (GB)

10 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 3 MAP (B) RITISH B AN 28-29 MARCH 1941 MARCH AN 28-29 AP T MA TTLE OF TTLE THE BA THE

HMAS PERTH ALIAN T I

2 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 11 28 - 29 MARCH 1941 BATTLE OF MATAPAN NAVAL HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF AUSTRALIA INC INVOLVING Patron: Chief of Navy HMA SHIPS, PERTH, STUART AND VENDETTA THE SOCIETY On 25 May 1970, the 348th anniversary of the arrival of the first British ship on the Australian PART 1 DAY ACTION coast, some forty men and women attended a meeting at Garden Island, Sydney, New South Wales, with the common purpose of forming a Naval Historical Society. The Naval Historical REFER MAP (B) MEDITERRANEAN SEA Society of Australia Inc., founded in 1970, is a cultural organisation which exists for the benefit of its members and the community to pursue these aims and objectives. LISTING (C) SHIPS INVOLVED AlMS and OBJECTIVES Following a marked increase of Italian air reconnaissance from 25 March, to the south and west Ä To research, record and collate the history of all Navies but,in particular, that of the ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY. of Greece and Crete and over the fleet base of Alexandria, in Egypt, impending action on the Ä To encourage and support Naval Museums. enemys part was indicated, so Admiral Sir A B Cunningham KGB, DSO, (C-in-C) began to Ä To promote and uphold the prestige, dignity and traditions of the NAVAL SERVICES. clear the area of convoys. In particular, those northbound to Greece, the current Athens convoy, were turned about 180 degrees after sunset to lay a trap and entice the Italians to probe further Membership of the Society is open to all who subscribe to these aims and objectives. south east, after their evening reconnaissance aircraft had regarded it northbound! The Society also extends its facilities to regional Naval and Maritime organisations throughout Australia. Patrolling in the Aegean Sea, under Vice Admiral N D Pridham-Wippell CB, CVO, was the 7th A number of Maritime and History organisations are affiliated with THE NAVAL HISTORICAL Cruiser Squadron consisting of the ships ORION (flagship), AJAX, PERTH and GLOUCESTER, SOCIETY as well as some libraries and universities. History is enjoying a renaissance in Australia. together with the destroyers ILEX, HASTY, HEREWARD and VENDETTA, which were Throughout the country people are tracing their ancestors, delving into the history of their houses and their towns, exploring the development of social institutions and recording their own stories for posterity. instructed to be to the southward of Gavdhos Island (south of Crete) at daylight on 28 March. Many of these stories will have Naval connections. Naval History is an integral part of Australian REFER DIAGRAM (D) VITTORIO VENETO history,and whatever your interest, the SOCIETY has something for you. The Italian fleet, also at sea, under C-in-C Admiral Angelo Iachino, in the battleship VITTORIA THE NAVAL HISTORICAL SOCIETY of AUSTR4LIA Inc., PRESERVING NAVAL HISTORY VENETO (35,000 tons, 9 x 15" guns and capable of the high speed of 30 knots), consisted of a MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS destroyer screen to his flagship, plus two separate cruiser squadrons, with their own destroyer As a member you will receive the March, June, September and December issue of Naval Historical screens. Review, the magazine of The Naval Historical Society of Australia Inc., which is published quarterly. It The first report of the enemy at sea off SE Sicily came from a Sunderland flying boat at 1230 on provides information on the activities of the Society and its members, notices of coming events, articles of general historical interests and issues of concern to historians, news from the Chapters, affiliated 27 March. After enemy air reconnaissance over Alexandria in the afternoon, under the cover of societies’ network and book reviews. The journal of the Naval Historical Society of Australia Inc., is the dusk, Cunningham, with his flag in the battleship WARSPITE, together with the battleships only published Australian journal of Naval history and is distributed internationally. BARHAM and VALIANT, (each mounting 8 x 15" guns), the aircraft carrier FORMIDABLE and destroyers JERVIS (Capt Mack 0/C 14 Flotilla), JANUS, NUBIAN, MOHAWK, Members are entitled to the free use of The N H S library which contains both written and pictorial GREYHOUND, GRIFFIN, HOTSPUR, HAVOCK and STUART (Capt H M L Waller 0/C 10 resources on all aspects of Naval history. The library specialises in Naval history, in particular the Australian Navy, and is developing a computerised data base. The Society has a good photographic Flotilla), put to sea to rendezvous with Pridbam-Wippell’s cruisers at 1700 on 28 March. collection which will be included in the data base. A program of events including lectures, excursions to REFER PHOTO (E) HMAS STUART, HMS GREYHOUND/GRIFFIN sites of historical interest and visits to Naval establishments and ships is offered to members. REFER MAP (F) BATTLE OF MATAPAN NATIONAL OFFICE

Building 25, The Boathouse, Garden Island, Sydney, N.S.W. 2011, About 0745 of 28 March, Pridham-Wippell, in ORION, leading his 7th Cruiser Squadron, sighted an enemy cruiser force south of Gavdhos Island. This first enemy cruiser force consisted of the Australia Phone: (02) 9359 2372.( Tues & Thurs.) Fax: (02) 9359 2383 three heavy cruisers, TRENTO, TRISTE and BOLZANO (each 10,000 tons, 8 x 8" guns and an incredible top speed of 36 knots). The enemy opened fire at 0812 at a range of 28,000 yards, Email:[email protected] approx 14 miles, but at 0855 the action was broken off. German aircraft reported the British battle fleet at 0900, but Iachino thought it was a case of mistaken identity of his fleet. 12 The Battle of Matapan - Monograph 114 Monograph 114 - The Battle of Matapan 1