HMS Belfast: Ship's Don't Bend That Way!

Step aboard HMS Belfast and experience a pivotal moment in naval history. It’s Tuesday morning, November 21, 1939, just 15 weeks after the commissioning of this new Town-class cruiser. Under the command of Captain George Scott, HMS Belfast, accompanied by HMS Southampton, is preparing for gunnery exercises outside the Firth of Forth. As Belfast follows Southampton, a sudden explosion rocks the ship – she has struck a magnetic mine, rendering her out of action for months.

Commissioned on August 5, 1939, HMS Belfast had quickly become a vital part of the Royal Navy. She participated in numerous exercises, including one where she successfully evaded the Home Fleet while simulating a German commerce raider. As tensions escalated in Europe, Belfast joined the 18th Cruiser Squadron, patrolling between the Shetlands and Norway to thwart any German breakout attempts into the Atlantic. Her patrols continued after war broke out in September 1939, with Belfast playing a crucial role in various operations, such as the recovery of the submarine Spearfish and intercepting several enemy vessels.

On the morning of November 21, 1939, as HMS Belfast passed under the Firth of Forth Bridge, the crew was going about their daily routines, unaware of the impending disaster. At 10:53 AM, a massive explosion occurred, lifting the ship out of the water and causing severe damage. Captain Scott immediately ordered the engines to stop and attempted to navigate the ship back to Rosyth. Despite the chaos and injuries among the crew, they managed to keep Belfast afloat and steer her towards safety.

Emergency procedures were quickly implemented. Medical teams treated the injured, and damage control parties worked tirelessly to stabilize the ship. Tugboats arrived to assist, and by 5:00 PM, Belfast was secured in the lock at Rosyth Dockyard. Examination revealed significant damage, including a bent keel, requiring extensive repairs. The crew was granted survivor leave, and the ship entered dry dock for what would be a prolonged repair period. Despite initial hopes for a swift return to service, HMS Belfast would remain out of action until August 1942.

Intro 0:00
Background 0:55
The Morning 2:36
The Mine 5:17
Towed Back 6:40
The Damage 10:45
Conclusion 12:33

Sources/Further Reading:

https://www.amazon.com/Last-Big-Gun-W...

https://www.amazon.com/British-Cruise...

https://www.amazon.com/Gathering-Stor...

https://www.amazon.com/German-Fleet-W...

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