Operation Collar (convoy) facts for kids
Operation Collar was a small, fast convoy of three ships during Second World War. It left Britain on November 12, 1940. The convoy passed Gibraltar on November 24, heading for Malta and Alexandria. Its main job was to deliver important supplies and people.
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What Was Operation Collar?
Operation Collar was a special mission to move ships safely across the Mediterranean Sea. The ships carried 1,370 Royal Air Force technicians. These technicians were vital for repairing aircraft and keeping airfields running. The convoy needed strong protection because the Mediterranean was a dangerous place during the war.
The Ships and Their Mission
The main ships in the convoy were the merchant vessels SS New Zealand Star, SS Clan Forbes, and SS Clan Fraser. These ships carried the valuable cargo and technicians.
To protect them, two cruisers, HMS Manchester and Southampton, sailed very close to the merchant ships. This close protection was called "Force F." Later, a destroyer, HMS Hotspur, joined them. Four smaller ships called corvettes (HMS Peony, Salvia, Gloxinia, and Hyacinth) also tried to help. However, these corvettes could not keep up with the faster convoy.
Who Was in Charge?
Vice Admiral Lancelot Holland commanded the convoy's immediate escort. A much stronger naval group, known as "Force H," provided distant cover. This group was led by Admiral James Somerville. Force H included the powerful battlecruiser HMS Renown, the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal, two cruisers (HMS Sheffield and HMS Despatch), and nine destroyers. Their job was to keep enemy ships away from the convoy.
The Battle of Cape Spartivento
The Italian navy knew about Operation Collar. They sent a large fleet to stop the convoy. This Italian force included two battleships, six cruisers, and fourteen destroyers. Admiral Inigo Campioni led the Italian fleet.
What Happened in the Battle?
The Italian fleet met Admiral Somerville's "Force H." A naval battle began, known as the Battle of Cape Spartivento. The Italian fleet had orders not to risk a major fight. During the exchange of fire, the Italian destroyer Lanciere and the British cruiser HMS Berwick were both badly damaged.
The Convoy Continues
After the battle, Admiral Somerville’s "Force H" continued towards Malta. They turned back towards Gibraltar just before Cape Bon on the afternoon of November 27.
At midnight on November 28, the convoy passed Cape Bon. They then headed to meet forces led by Admiral Andrew Cunningham from Alexandria. Soon after, the convoy split up. The ships Clan Fraser and Clan Forbes went to Malta. The New Zealand Star, escorted by the destroyers HMS Defender and Hereward, continued its journey to Alexandria. The cruisers HMS Manchester and Southampton also helped cover this smaller group.
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