Warships from Force H in the Mediterranean, including "Ark Royal", joined Home Fleet warships in pursuit. The weather was foul with winds up to fifty-six knots, making carrier take-offs and landings extremely hazardous. Nonetheless, Swordfish torpedo bombers from "Ark Royal" shadowed the "Bismark" as it sailed for the German base at Brest on the French coast seeking the protection of land-based air cover it would have if it were able to out-race the pursuing warships. The "Bismark" appeared likely to win that race unless "Ark Royal" aircraft could prevent it. Weathering gale-force winds, rain, and intensive anti-aircraft fire, 15 torpedo bombers located and loosed torpedoes at their target. At least two torpedoes hit. One of them, by luck, damaged "Bismark"'s steering gear resulting in her being unable to hold her course and speed. Aircraft continued to shadow the battleship as British warships overtook her and inflicted such damage that her captain ordered "Bismark" to be scuttled. Thus ended one of the last battles between battleships. During the battle, "Ark Royal" was attacked by land-based German aircraft but was effectively protected by escorting cruisers.