Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:45:48-2:47:56

UB III and UC III judged by different measures

UB III earns praise for its design, while UC III is preferred when mine-laying effectiveness determines the choice.

German NavyNaval MinesType UB III U-BoatType UC III U-BoatWorld War I
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

What was the best submarine of the First World War?

Short answer

UB III is proposed for technical quality, while UC III is favored when effectiveness and the additional mine-laying role carry more weight.

Notes

UB III is the first choice for its technical quality when introduced in 1917-18. Its resemblance to the later Type VII supports that judgment. Clarke instead emphasizes effectiveness in sinking ships and favors the German minelaying submarines on that basis. UC III then becomes the preferred candidate because it combines useful UB III characteristics with a mine-laying capability.