Three Battleships Hit

Grey River Argus, 19 March 1940, Page 7

Three Battleships Hit

NO 'PLANE LOST. [Aus. & N.Z. Cable Assn.] LONDON, March 17. A communique issued by the German High Command states: “German ’planes bombed six British warships in Scapa Flow, definitely damaging three battleships and one cruiser, and probably damaged two other warships. They also bombed three aerodromes, and one anti-aircraft battery.” Germany is resounding with claims of a big success in the Scapa Flow raid. A German radio special early communique stated: “Our air force, availing itself of the results of recent reconnoitring flights, attacked units of the British Navy at the base at Scapa Flow, on the evening of March 16. Several battleships and cruisers were hit by bombs, and heavily damaged.' Several air-bases were attacked, and bombs were dropped. The ’planes completed the operations successfully, despite anti-aircraft and fighter defence. There were no losses.” BIGGEST BATTLESHIPS HIT. (Received March 18, 7.45 p.m.) BERLIN, March 18. The commander of the squadron which was responsible for the bombing of Scapa Flow claimed that direct hits were registered with the largest bombs on the battleships Hood, Repulse, and Renown, and an unnamed cruiser. He said that all of the Heinkels engaged returned to Germany, some being slightly damaged.