The Fairey Swordfish was a British carrier-borne biplane torpedo bomber introduced in the 1930s. Though slow and old-fashioned in appearance, it proved remarkably effective during the Second World War. Nicknamed the “Stringbag” for its ability to carry varied loads, it performed torpedo strikes, reconnaissance and anti-submarine duties. Its most famous success came in May 1941, when Swordfish aircraft from HMS Ark Royal crippled the German battleship Bismarck with a torpedo hit that jammed her rudder. Operating from the carrier’s decks in harsh Atlantic conditions, the Swordfish demonstrated reliability and courage over cutting-edge speed, earning a lasting place in British naval aviation history.