Intro
Uncover the fascinating history of the HMS King George V, a British battleship that played a pivotal role in World War II. Discover 7 key facts about this iconic warship, including its construction, wartime service, and notable battles, as well as its significance in naval warfare and British military history.
HMS King George V was a British battleship that played a significant role in World War II. As one of the five King George V-class battleships, she was the flagship of the British Home Fleet during the war. Here are 7 key facts about HMS King George V:
Design and Construction
HMS King George V was laid down on January 1, 1937, at the Vickers-Armstrongs shipyard in Newcastle upon Tyne. She was launched on February 21, 1939, and commissioned on October 11, 1940. The battleship was designed to meet the limitations imposed by the Washington Naval Treaty, which restricted the size and armament of battleships.
Armament and Armor
HMS King George V was armed with ten 14-inch (356 mm) guns in two quadruple turrets and one twin turret. She also had 16 5.25-inch (133 mm) dual-purpose guns in eight twin turrets. The battleship's armor was designed to protect her from 14-inch shells, with a maximum thickness of 14 inches (356 mm) on the main belt and 5 inches (127 mm) on the deck.
World War II Service
HMS King George V played a significant role in World War II, serving as the flagship of the British Home Fleet. She took part in several key battles, including the Battle of the North Cape, where she helped sink the German battleship Scharnhorst. The battleship also participated in the Battle of the Denmark Strait, where she engaged the German battleship Bismarck.
Notable Battles
HMS King George V was involved in several notable battles during World War II, including:
- Battle of the North Cape (December 26, 1943)
- Battle of the Denmark Strait (May 24-27, 1941)
- Action against the German battleship Bismarck (May 26-27, 1941)
- Escort duties for convoys to the Soviet Union (1941-1942)
Crew and Living Conditions
HMS King George V had a crew of over 1,400 officers and men. The battleship was equipped with modern amenities, including a cinema, a gym, and a swimming pool. However, living conditions on board were cramped and uncomfortable, with many crew members sharing small cabins and bunks.
Upgrades and Refits
During her service, HMS King George V underwent several upgrades and refits, including the installation of radar and improved anti-aircraft defenses. She also received a new coat of paint and a modified funnel design to reduce her visibility.
Post-War Service and Decommissioning
After the end of World War II, HMS King George V served as a training ship and a harbor defense vessel. She was eventually decommissioned on October 17, 1958, and scrapped in 1959.
Legacy
HMS King George V played a significant role in World War II, serving as a symbol of British naval power and resilience. She is remembered as one of the most iconic battleships of the war, and her legacy continues to inspire historians and naval enthusiasts today.
If you're interested in learning more about HMS King George V, we encourage you to explore the resources listed below. You can also share your thoughts and questions about this iconic battleship in the comments section.
HMS King George V Image Gallery
What was the main armament of HMS King George V?
+The main armament of HMS King George V consisted of ten 14-inch (356 mm) guns in two quadruple turrets and one twin turret.
What was the top speed of HMS King George V?
+The top speed of HMS King George V was 28 knots (52 km/h).
What was the fate of HMS King George V after World War II?
+After World War II, HMS King George V served as a training ship and a harbor defense vessel before being decommissioned on October 17, 1958, and scrapped in 1959.