The events and decisions that culminated in the Battle of the Barents Sea—what many consider to be the most important naval engagement of World War II's European theatre—in which eight of the German navy's most powerful ships failed to sink a Russian convoy guarded by only four small British destroyers, are brought to life by the author in this tale of men struggling to carry out their orders in the face of overwhelming obstacles.

Includes index. Originally published in 1958 as 73 North : the defeat of Hitler's navy.

Route Green -- The sea lord -- Zone of destiny -- 'In defeat, defiance' -- The problem -- Turkey time -- 'By hand of officer' -- Christmas Eve, 1942 -- 'Anchor aweigh' -- The row begins -- So much old iron -- Use caution ... -- Action stations -- Hipper attacks -- Onslow is hit -- The last signal -- Lützow joins in -- Shoot ... shoot ... shoot! -- The Lützow challenges.