Q&A · 2:01:27-2:02:03

Could German surface raiders replace U-boats?

The answer favours a combination of surface ships and submarines.

Question

Would Germany do better by concentrating on Scharnhorst- and Graf Spee-type ships instead of U-boats?

Short answer

The answer favours a combination of surface ships and submarines.

Notes

Either threat becomes easier to handle if it is the only one an opponent must prepare to meet. A mixed force creates different demands on British deployments. The suggested surface fleet therefore does not remove the case for submarines.