In a stunning revelation that echoes through the annals of naval history, recent research has unveiled the seven longest recorded hits in naval gunfire, showcasing extraordinary feats of precision and firepower that have shaped warfare at sea. This urgent report delves into these historic moments, where s饾搥饾捑饾搧饾搧ed gunners delivered devastating blows from astonishing distances.
Kicking off the countdown, the seventh longest hit was achieved by the German heavy cruiser Prinz Eugen during the Battle of Denmark Strait on May 24, 1941. From a staggering distance of approximately 19,000 meters, Prinz Eugen struck the British battleship HMS Hood, igniting a fierce blaze that marked the beginning of Hood’s tragic demise.
Following closely, the sixth longest hit came from the Japanese cruiser Haguro in the Battle of Java Sea on February 27, 1942. With remarkable accuracy, Haguro struck the Allied flagship and a destroyer, showcasing the lethal effectiveness of naval artillery even at 22,000 yards.
The USS West Virginia made its mark as the fifth longest hit during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on October 24, 1944, hitting the Japanese battleship Yamashiro from an impressive 20,000 meters, helping to secure a pivotal victory for American forces.
In another striking moment, HMS Warspite delivered a blow to the Italian flagship Giulio Cesare at a distance of 24,000 meters during the Battle of Calabria on July 9, 1940, causing catastrophic damage and fires that crippled the enemy vessel.
The USS Massachusetts achieved the third longest hit at 25,600 meters against the French destroyer Milan on November 8, 1942, inflicting severe damage that would echo in the naval records.
On June 7, 1940, the German battleship Scharnhorst struck the British aircraft carrier Glorious from 25,700 meters, demonstrating the devastating reach of naval artillery.
Finally, the USS Massachusetts clinched the title for the longest recorded hit, striking the French battleship Jean Bart at an astounding 26,517 meters during Operation Torch, marking a historic moment in naval warfare.
These awe-inspiring feats not only underscore the evolution of naval combat but also serve as a testament to the men and machines that have fought on the high seas. Stay tuned as we continue to explore the dramatic narratives that define our maritime history.