HMS Tempest (N86)

HMS "Tempest" (N86) was a T-class submarine of the Royal Navy. She was laid down by Cammell Laird & Co Limited, Birkenhead and launched in June 1941.

Career

"Tempest" had a shortlived career, serving in the Mediterranean.

She sailed from Malta on the night of 10 February to patrol the Gulf of Taranto. On the evening of the 11th "Tempest" was signalled that the Italians were aware of a submarine in her vicinity and that it should be assumed that her patrol had been compromised. On the 13th, "Tempest" was sighted on the surface by the Italian destroyer "Circe". "Tempest" attempted to dive, but "Circe" began depth charging the area, eventually resulting in oil being seen on the surface. "Tempest" had been crippled, and forced to surface, where she was hit by gunfire from the "Circe". The crew abandoned the submarine, and were picked up by the destroyer. The Italians attempted to board the abandoned vessel but were unable to, due to rough seas. Unable to board "Tempest" due to the bad weather, the Italian destroyer opened fire scoring more than a dozen direct hits, but failing to sink the "Tempest". Finally the Italians attempted to take the submarine in tow. Two members of the destroyer’s crew boarded the submarine and prepared the tow. As "Circe" manoeuvred to take up the tow, "Tempest" suddenly started to sink forcing those onboard to jump into the sea. HMS "Tempest" slipped beneath the waves stern first with the bows disappearing vertically. [ [http://www.rnsubmus.co.uk/general/losses.htm Submarine losses 1904 to present day] , RN Submarine Museum, Gosport] [ [http://uboat.net/allies/warships/ship/3499.html HMS Tempest] , Uboot.net]

References

*"Submarines, War Beneath The Waves, From 1776 To The Present Day", by Robert Hutchinson
*Colledge