The Murmansk Convoys, also known as the Arctic Convoys, were a series of Allied naval convoys that transported vital supplies from the United Kingdom, Iceland, and North America to the Soviet Union’s northern ports, primarily Murmansk and Arkhangelsk, during World War II. The convoys faced extreme weather conditions, German air and naval attacks, and heavy losses.
Convoy PQ 17: The Worst Losses
Convoy PQ 17, which sailed from Iceland in June 1942, suffered the worst losses of any convoy. Out of 30 ships, the Germans sank or damaged nine, including the SS Atheltemplar, SS Ceramic, and SS Lancastria. The convoy’s escorts were unable to protect the ships, and many sailors and soldiers were lost at sea.
Overall Losses
According to estimates, a total of 104 merchant vessels were lost during the Murmansk Convoys, along with 24 Royal Navy warships. Approximately 3,500 Allied servicemen lost their lives. The loss rate for Allied ships was higher than on any other Allied convoy series.
