HMS Charybdis (88) - Operation Tunnel and Sinking

Operation Tunnel and Sinking

In late 1943, the British authorities were aware of the approach of the German blockade runner, Münsterland, which was carrying an important cargo of latex and strategic metals. The Germans had a well-rehearsed procedure for escorting such vessels. The British reacted by executing Operation Tunnel, a standard operation whereby available ships would attempt to intercept. Charybdis was assigned to the operation on 20 October, and on 22 October the British force put to sea. With Charybdis were the fleet destroyers HMS Grenville and Rocket and four Hunt-class destroyers; HMS Limbourne, Wensleydale, Talybont and Stevenstone. The Münsterland's escorts consisted of five Elbing class torpedo boats, comprising the 4th Torpedo Boat Flotilla, commanded by Franz Kohlauf.

Charybdis was hit on the port side by two torpedoes fired by the German torpedo boats T-23, under the command of Friedrich-Karl Paul, and T-27. HMS Limbourne was also hit during this action and was later scuttled by HMS Rocket. The German force escaped unharmed. Charybdis sank within half an hour, in position 48°59′N 3°39′W / 48.983°N 3.65°W / 48.983; -3.65Coordinates: 48°59′N 3°39′W / 48.983°N 3.65°W / 48.983; -3.65, with the loss of over 400 men. Four officers and 103 ratings survived. The Münsterland was eventually forced ashore and destroyed west of Cap Blanc Nez by fire from British coastal artillery, on 21 January 1944.