Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:22:41-1:23:03

Submarines adapted for landing troops

French concepts and the related mention of Japan's I-400 class show that navies considered very large submarines for unusual amphibious roles.

Amphibious WarfareFrench NavyI-400 Class SubmarinesSubmarines
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Question

Did any navy consider a submarine designed to land troops?

Short answer

Yes; the French considered a troop-carrying version, and Japan's I-400 class provides a related large-submarine example.

Notes

The French examined a troop-carrying version of one of their submarine concepts. Japan's I-400 class provides a related example of the unusual missions assigned to very large submarines. Underwater troop delivery was therefore considered as a specialized option. It did not become a normal fleet role.