First warships sunk in the war

The sinking of the Polish destroyer ORP Wicher and the minelayer ORP Gryf marked a pivotal event in naval warfare during the early stages of the conflict. These vessels were targeted by the Luftwaffe in the port of Hel, resulting in their destruction and establishing them as the first warships lost in the war. The attack highlighted the effectiveness of aerial bombardment against naval assets, a tactic that would be increasingly utilized throughout the conflict. The loss of these ships not only represented a blow to the Polish Navy but also underscored the vulnerability of surface vessels to air strikes, a reality that would shape naval strategies in subsequent engagements. In response to the growing threat from the air, the Royal Air Force's Bomber Command initiated its first military action by deploying 27 aircraft to target the Kriegsmarine. However, the mission was aborted before any significant engagement could occur, reflecting the challenges faced by air forces in coordinating effective strikes against naval targets. The events surrounding the sinking of ORP Wicher and ORP Gryf set a precedent for the integration of air power in naval operations, influencing tactics and strategies for both the Allies and Axis powers as the war progressed. This incident not only marked a loss for Poland but also served as a critical lesson in the evolving nature of warfare, where air superiority became increasingly essential for naval operations.