In the early days of World War II, the British Royal Navy is on high alert after learning that the German battleship Bismarck has broken out into the North Atlantic. The Bismarck, one of the most powerful warships afloat, poses a grave threat to Allied shipping routes. Captain Jonathan Shepard is placed in charge of Operations Division at the Admiralty, where he quickly implements a strategic hunt to locate and neutralize the Bismarck before it can wreak havoc. Shepard, a stern but capable leader deeply affected by personal loss in the war, pairs with naval intelligence officer Anne Davis to meticulously track every movement of the feared German ship.

The tension mounts as the British fleet, including aircraft carriers and battleships, mobilizes to intercept the Bismarck. Despite facing several obstacles, including treacherous weather and strategic misdirections, Shepard and his team persevere. Numerous smaller skirmishes ensue, resulting in moments of intense action and suspense. As events unfold, Shepard's dedication and resolve are tested, reflecting the high stakes and human element involved in wartime decision-making. The film portrays naval warfare with gripping realism, emphasizing the psychological strain alongside the physical confrontations on the high seas.