The Royal Navy's decision not to prioritize hunting down the German heavy cruiser Prinz Eugen with the same intensity as the battleship Bismarck after their separation in May 1941 can be attributed to several strategic and tactical reasons. These reasons include the immediate threat posed by Bismarck, the operational conditions at the time, and the overall strategic situation in the Atlantic.
1. The Immediate Threat of the Bismarck
Size and Firepower: Bismarck was one of the most powerful battleships afloat, armed with eight 15-inch guns and capable of posing a significant threat to Allied shipping and naval forces. Its potential to disrupt critical supply convoys in the Atlantic made it a top priority.
Sink the Hood's Avenger: After the destruction of HMS Hood, the pride of the Royal Navy, in an engagement with Bismarck, there was immense pressure from both the public and military leadership to avenge the loss. This emotional and symbolic factor made the pursuit of Bismarck the highest priority.
Operational Capability: Prinz Eugen, though dangerous, was a heavy cruiser with far less firepower and armor than Bismarck. It posed a threat to merchant convoys, but not on the same scale as Bismarck. The Royal Navy calculated that the cruiser could be dealt with later.
2. Strategic and Logistical Considerations
Resources Concentrated on Bismarck: The Royal Navy had already deployed a massive force to intercept Bismarck, including battleships, cruisers, destroyers, and aircraft carriers. Diverting additional ships to pursue Prinz Eugen could have jeopardized the operation to neutralize the greater threat.
Limited Naval Forces in the Atlantic: Despite its size, the Royal Navy was stretched thin during the war, with commitments in multiple theaters. Ensuring the destruction of Bismarck was seen as a better use of available resources.
3. The Separation of Bismarck and Prinz Eugen
Split to Reduce Detection Risk: On May 24, 1941, after their engagement with the Royal Navy, Bismarck and Prinz Eugen separated. Prinz Eugen was ordered to operate independently against Allied shipping, while Bismarck sought to escape to occupied France for repairs.
Difficulty in Tracking Prinz Eugen: Once the ships separated, British forces concentrated on tracking Bismarck. The heavy cruiser’s location became uncertain, and the vast area of the Atlantic made it difficult to locate her. Tracking two targets simultaneously was a challenge with the resources available at the time.