The DISASTROUS Sinking of the Italian Battleship Roma

Описание: In the summer of 1943, the Mediterranean war situation was dire for Italy. Following the Allies' successful campaigns in North Africa and the capture of Sicily, Italy faced immense pressure. With Benito Mussolini deposed in July, the new government under Pietro Badoglio began secret negotiations for an armistice with the Allies. As German forces prepared to occupy Italy, Admiral Carlo Bergamini and the Italian fleet faced a critical decision. On September 8, 1943, Badoglio announced Italy's surrender, and Bergamini received orders to move the fleet to Allied-controlled ports.

The Regia Marina’s departure from La Spezia began on the night of September 9. The battleships Roma, Italia, and Vittorio Veneto led the formation, accompanied by cruisers, destroyers, and torpedo boats, zigzagging south along the coast to avoid German attacks. As the fleet approached La Maddalena, the situation deteriorated when German forces occupied the port, forcing Bergamini to alter course towards North Africa. Despite high alertness against potential German air attacks, the Italian ships soon faced a new and devastating weapon.

In the afternoon of September 9, Dornier Do 217 bombers from Luftwaffe’s 100th Bomb Wing attacked the fleet with Fritz X radio-guided bombs, an advanced anti-ship weapon capable of piercing thick armor. Roma was struck twice; the first bomb hit the starboard engine room, causing significant flooding, while the second struck near the bridge, igniting the forward magazines. Roma split in two and sank rapidly, claiming over 1,300 lives, including Admiral Bergamini. Italia also sustained damage from another bomb, but the remaining ships managed to escape further harm.

The sinking of Roma marked a tragic end for the Italian battleship, which had never seen combat action. This event highlighted the chaos and uncertainty during Italy's abrupt transition from an Axis power to an occupied nation seeking to join the Allies. It was a bitter moment for the Italian Navy, as they navigated a complex landscape of shifting allegiances and rapid military developments.

Intro 0:00
Background 1:45
Sinking 9:54
Conclusion 15:55

Sources/Other Reading:

https://www.amazon.com/Mussolinis-Nav...

https://www.amazon.com/War-Mediterran...

https://www.amazon.com/Operation-Pede...

https://www.amazon.com/Naval-War-Medi...

https://www.amazon.com/Littorio-Class...

Littorio Class Video:    • Видео  

Video Information:
Copyright fair use notice. All media used in this video is used for the purpose of education under the terms of fair use. All footage and images used belong to their copyright holders, when applicable.