Introduction to Naval Ramming Incidents

Naval ramming has been a controversial and often lethal tactic used in both historical and modern conflicts. This article delves into various instances where naval ships intentionally rammed enemy vessels, highlighting the significant events from World War I to contemporary military engagements.

Historical Context of Naval Ramming

Naval ramming is the act of intentionally colliding a ship with another vessel to inflict damage, often to disable or sink the target. Historically, this tactic was used during the era of wooden ships and continues to be employed in modern naval conflicts.

World War I and Post-War Incidents

During World War I, naval ramming was a common practice. The British troop ship HMS Olympic famously rammed a German submarine, the U103, in 1918. The impact was so severe that the U103's crew had to scuttle and abandon the ship. This event is a testament to the dangerous and life-threatening nature of such tactics.

In World War II, the USS Borie, a Clemson-class destroyer, rammed another German submarine, the U-405, before engaging it in small arms fire. The USS Borie sustained heavy damage, ultimately leading to her sinking by other Allied vessels after the crew was evacuated. These incidents highlight the risks involved in naval ramming tactics.

Operational Pacific and USS GROWLER

One of the most notable ramming incidents occurred during the Operation Pacific in February 1943. The submarine USS GROWLER, commanded by Lt. Cmdr. Howard Gilmore, intentionally rammed an enemy gunboat during her 4th patrol. This act, under extreme circumstances, was a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the crew. Gilmore was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions, making him the first of seven submariners to receive this honor during World War II. Unfortunately, Gilmore's body was never recovered after the incident.

Modern Naval Ramming Incidents

Into the 20th and 21st centuries, naval ramming continues to occur, often in the context of maritime disputes or international conflicts. One such example is the 'Cod Wars' between Iceland and the United Kingdom.

Cod Wars and International Disputes

The Cod Wars were a series of disputes between Iceland and the UK over commercial fishing rights in the 1970s. During these conflicts, Icelandic ships intentionally rammed British naval vessels.

Operation Sea Lion (1988): During a freedom-of-the-seas operation in the Black Sea, a Soviet frigate, Bezzavetnyy, rammed a Ticonderoga-class cruiser, Yorktown. Another Soviet frigate, SKR-6, bumped into the destroyer USS Caron, causing damage to both ships. The Yorktown sustained significant damage, requiring repairs, while the Bezzavetnyy had to undergo additional maintenance.

Third Cod War and British Response

During the Third Cod War (1975-1976), Icelandic ships continued to ram British naval vessels as part of their dispute over fishing rights.

Imprisonment of HMS Yarmouth (1976): HMS Yarmouth suffered serious bow damage when rammed by an Icelandic gunboat. HMS Diomede sustained a 40-foot hull gas, while HMS Eastbourne was decommissioned due to extensive damage. Furthermore, HMS Falmouth and V/S Tyr both suffered significant bow damage during these incidents, underscoring the impact of these ramming tactics.

Conclusion

Naval ramming remains a provocative and deadly tactic used by naval forces in various conflicts throughout history. From the Great War to the present, these incidents have left an indelible mark on maritime history, reflecting the complexities and challenges of modern naval warfare.