German E-boats Attack Allied Troops at Exercise Tiger
April 28th, 1944
April 28th, 1944

How Long Ago?
80 years, 10 months, 15 days ago
Location
Slapton Sands, England
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
World War II
Links & References
Tags
German E-boats Attack Allied Troops at Exercise Tiger
Nine German E-boats engaged in a surprise attack against US and UK naval units during Exercise Tiger, a crucial rehearsal for the Normandy landings. This operation took place off the coast of Slapton Sands, England, leading to significant casualties. The assault resulted in the deaths of 946 servicemen, marking one of the deadliest incidents of the war prior to D-Day. The attack raised urgent concerns about Allied vulnerability and led to an reevaluation of operational security in the preparation for the invasion of Normandy.
Exercise Tiger was crucial for D-Day preparations.
The attack involved nine German E-boats.
944 American servicemen lost their lives.
Operational security was significantly re-evaluated.
What Happened?
During the final preparations for Operation Overlord, the Allied invasion of Normandy, Exercise Tiger took place to conduct rigorous training for American and British forces. Slapton Sands in Devon, England, was chosen as the exercise site, simulating the landing conditions of a beachhead assault. On April 28, 1944, while the troops practiced their landing procedures, nine German E-boats launched an audacious nighttime raid. The Opal, the S-138, and other vessels of the German Kriegsmarine penetrated the exercise area undetected, capitalizing on an intelligence failure that resulted in inadequate protection for the exercise fleet.
The E-boats successfully executed torpedo attacks against LSTs (Landing Ship Tanks) carrying troops and supplies. A combination of poor communication among the Allied units and the surprise nature of the assault meant that defensive measures were slow to be mobilized. As a result, many vessels were sunk or heavily damaged, and approximately 946 servicemen lost their lives, most of whom were American troops. This incident not only resulted in a significant loss of life but also prompted a re-examination of operational security protocols for Allied forces as they approached the D-Day invasion.
Following the attack, the Allies took several measures to ensure that such a disaster would not recur. Changes were implemented in how exercises were conducted, and new strategies were adopted to enhance the safety and security of the invasion forces. Additionally, the event highlighted the significant threat posed by German naval forces and raised awareness about the challenges that Allied forces would face on D-Day.
Why Does it Matter?
The attack during Exercise Tiger stands out as a pivotal indication of the dangers Allied forces faced as they prepared for the Normandy invasion. It revealed critical vulnerabilities in operational security and the necessity for enhanced communication among forces in the theatre of war. The loss of life underscored the high stakes of the upcoming D-Day operation and led to important adjustments in military planning and strategy, which would be crucial for ensuring a more successful Allied landing in June.
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