(Pages 107 & 108)
THE OBJECT
615. When attacking a convoy, the object must be
the destruction or capture of the ships forming the convoy. The tactics
adopted by the attacking force will depend on whether the ships in convoy
may be sunk at sight or not (troop transports, recognised fleet auxiliaries,
etc., can be lawfully sunk at sight). If the ships in convoy may be sunk
at sight, the attacking force should concentrate on their destruction,
rather than on engaging the escort. But, if there is doubt as to sinking
at sight, it will not be possible to deal with the ships in convoy until
interference by the escorting force has been neutralised. In this case,
if the attacking force is superior to the escort, the latter should be
destroyed or driven off without delay ; if inferior, part of the attacking
force should attempt to draw off the escort by a feint attack, whilst
the remainder closes and deals with the convoy.
616. The question whether the convoy should
be attacked by day or at night will depend on the relative strengths of
the escort and attacking force, and whether the ships in convoy may be
sunk at sight. Success in attack will largely depend on surprise. Unless
the convoy is accompanied by an aircraft carrier or is within range of
shore-based aircraft, it is unlikely to have the advantage of air reconnaissance.
THE ATTACKING FORCE
617. Cruisers and destroyers are the most suitable
ships for convoy attack, as handiness and speed are important factors.
However, important convuys may be escorted by capital ships and in this
case an opportunity for a fleet action may arise. Sporadic attacks by
shadowing vessels on stragglers that fall astern of a convoy may be possible
by day or at night, but this action should not take precedence over the
primary duty of shadowing. Apart from reconnaissance, aircraft may be
of great value for attacking the escort and in certain circumstances the
ships in convoy.
METHOD OF ATTACK
618. When surprise is the basis of the plan of attack,
it is usually preferable to attack from ahead. Directly the enemy is sighted,
ships should close at high speed and end-on if practicable. This will
make recognition by ships of the escort difficult, and the rate of closing
the enemy to a decisive range will be higher. Furthermore, it should result
in the ships in convoy being thrown into confusion if they attempt to
scatter. Ships of the convoy which scatter should be ordered to stop and
fire should be opened on those which fail to obey the order.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
619. Instructions regarding the safety of crews
of merchant ships and the sinking of ships in convoy at sight should be
included in the orders for the operation. Guidance on this matter is contained
in Notes on Maritime International Law (C.B.3012) ; the Naval Prize Manual
(O.U.5316/1923) should also be referred to.
620-624. (Blank)
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