Title:SEEKRIEGSWESEN - DAS U-BOOT : Teil A. Das U-boot und Seine Waffen [Main Title]
Film Number:GWY 1652
Other titles:NAVAL WARFARE - THE U-BOAT : Part A. The U-boat and its Weapons [Translation]
Summary: Luftwaffe instructional film uses library film and animation to show the technical capabilities, physical layout and operational performance of a typical (Type VIIC) U-boat.
Description: Commentary opens by asserting that U-boat is of special interest to Luftwaffe since German aircrew must not only attack enemy's submarines but also work closely with own U-boat force. Aerial shot of Type VII U-boat steaming on surface of sunlit sea. Technical details of U-boat are explained: pressure hull and vulnerability of outer hull (film of oil slick left by damaged U-boat); diving procedure (film of Type VII diving in open sea, with three seagulls in frame, and trace left by submarine after diving). U-boat layout is shown: torpedo tubes in bow (film of spare torpedoes in forward compartment where crew member sleeps); control tower, with commander at periscope and ascending through conning tower with two others who wear leaping dragon emblem on caps); central section containing steering and torpedo-firing controls; engine room with diesel and electric motors; aerial view of Type VIIC on surface, with crew on deck waving. Chart shows comparative speeds of submarines and surface vessels. Storage, reloading and aiming of torpedoes at moving targets is explained in detailed animation, including salvo and surface night attacks. Use of U-boats as minelayers and awkward firing of deck gun (Flotilla Hundius sailors load and fire gun) are also described. Animation shows U-boat's wireless communication capability under and on the surface. Film concludes by showing tactical advantage which virtually invisible U-boat enjoys compared to ordinary vessels.
Alternative Title:NAVAL WARFARE - THE U-BOAT : Part A. The U-boat and its Weapons [Translation]
