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Aerial picture taken at Scapa of secret Fleet tenders - merchant ships camouflaged with
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Aerial picture taken at Scapa of secret Fleet tenders - merchant ships camouflaged with
Aerial picture taken at Scapa of secret Fleet tenders - merchant ships camouflaged with wood and canvas to represent R Class battleships and the aircraft carrier Hermes.
They were used in fleet anchorage in the first two years of war as aerial decoys and to dilute bombing attacks.
Picture shows thew dummy aircraft carrier Hermes from the air.
July 1940
Official
Daily Mirror Archive
Mirrorpix
Scapa
Orkney Islands
Scotland
Media ID 21885091
© Mirrorpix
1940 Decoy Defence Navy Sea War Ship Strategic Strategy Tactics Deception
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This aerial photograph captures a remarkable moment in history during the Second World War. Taken at Scapa, it reveals the secret fleet tenders disguised as R Class battleships and the aircraft carrier Hermes. These merchant ships were ingeniously camouflaged with wood and canvas to deceive enemy forces. Ingenious tactics were employed using these decoys to protect the fleet anchorage in the early years of war. The dummy vessels not only acted as aerial decoys but also served to dilute bombing attacks, safeguarding vital military resources. The focal point of this image is the dummy aircraft carrier Hermes, seen from above. Its intricate camouflage design successfully imitates a real aircraft carrier, fooling any potential adversaries who might be observing from afar. Taken in July 1940, this photograph serves as a testament to the strategic brilliance and resourcefulness displayed by naval forces during this tumultuous period. It highlights their determination to outwit and outmaneuver their opponents on every front. As we gaze upon this historical print, we are reminded of the immense sacrifices made by those who fought bravely for our freedom. It stands as a powerful symbol of defense and resilience amidst one of humanity's darkest chapters – an enduring reminder that ingenuity can triumph even in times of great adversity.
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