The U-class boats of the 10th Submarine Flotilla at Malta challenge claims that British submarines were ineffective. They were exceptionally successful for their size because Axis shipping had to pass through a confined operating area. Targets repeatedly followed broadly north-south routes, giving the submarines a dense and comparatively predictable hunting ground. The comparison shows that results reflect geography and target availability as well as submarine design or national doctrine.
Notable Point · 35:59-36:51
Why Malta's U-class submarines found such a productive hunting ground
The Royal Navy's small U-class boats benefited from a confined operating area where Axis supply traffic repeatedly followed predictable routes.