The Bismarck's maiden voyage began on May 18, 1940, when it set sail from Gotenhafen (now Gdynia, Poland) to conduct a series of sea trials. On board was Admiral Günther Lütjens, who would command the ship on its ill-fated voyage. The Bismarck was joined by the heavy cruiser Prinz Eugen, which would serve as its escort.
The Bismarck suffered significant damage during the battle, including a hit on its fuel system, which would ultimately prove disastrous. The ship's speed was reduced, and it began to leak fuel at an alarming rate. free download Affondate la Bismarck-
On May 26, 1941, British biplane torpedo bombers from the aircraft carrier HMS Victorious launched a series of attacks on the Bismarck. One of the torpedo bombers, a Fairey Barracuda, scored a hit on the Bismarck's rudder, which rendered the ship unable to steer. The Bismarck's maiden voyage began on May 18,
