WWII Submarine Fleet

The WWII Submarine Fleet played a pivotal role in the Allied victory during World War II, particularly in the vast and unforgiving Pacific theater. At a time when naval warfare stretched from the icy Russian tundra to the sun-drenched waters of the Pacific, submarines emerged as silent predators, effectively crippling the Japanese war machine. Despite making up less than two percent of the US Navy, these underwater warriors proved to be a game-changer, delivering devastating blows to enemy forces and supply lines.

In 1941, submarine technology was primitive compared to the nuclear-powered vessels of today. The submarines of World War II spent 90% of their time on the ocean’s surface, relying on combined diesel and battery-powered engines. Their General Motors diesel engines enabled them to travel at a respectable 20 knots on the surface, but once submerged, their speed dropped dramatically to just 2 knots as they ran on twin 126-cell batteries.

The limitations didn’t end there. Diesel engines required oxygen to function, forcing submarines to resurface frequently to recharge their batteries. This operational constraint made stealthy maneuvers more challenging, yet these submarines still managed to execute daring missions that turned the tide of the war.

At the heart of the US submarine effort was the USS Gato, the first of its class to take on the Japanese fleet. Measuring 311 feet and displacing over 1,500 tons on the surface (and nearly 2,500 tons submerged), the Gato-class submarines were a formidable force. They marked the beginning of the United States’ aggressive submarine campaign in the Pacific.

Two years later, the Balao-class submarines joined the fray. These were nearly identical to the Gato-class but featured a reinforced hull, allowing for deeper dives and enhanced operational capabilities. Together, these submarines spearheaded the Allied effort to dominate the Pacific theater.

Though they accounted for less than two percent of the US Navy, the WWII submarine fleet delivered outsized results. Submarines were responsible for sinking 30% of the Japanese Navy, including eight aircraft carriers. Even more impressive was their impact on Japan’s economy, as they destroyed nearly 5 million tons of critical resources, severely hampering the Japanese war effort.

This relentless assault on enemy supply lines and naval vessels played a significant role in weakening Japan’s ability to sustain its military operations. The submarines may not have received the lion’s share of glory, but their contribution was undeniable, often described as “punching above their weight class.”

Victory in war always comes at a cost, and the submarine fleet was no exception. During World War II, 52 submarines were lost, taking 3,506 brave sailors with them. For those aboard a downed submarine, the chances of survival were slim, as escape mechanisms were rudimentary at best. These sacrifices highlight the incredible bravery and dedication of the men and women who served aboard these vessels.

Their efforts not only helped secure freedom during one of history’s darkest periods but also left a legacy of heroism that continues to inspire.

The WWII submarine fleet demonstrated the power of innovation, resilience, and strategy in warfare. These vessels, though technologically limited by today’s standards, reshaped naval warfare with their ability to strike deep into enemy territory. Their actions significantly contributed to the fall of Japan and the eventual Allied victory in the Pacific.

The story of these submarines is a testament to the courage and determination of the crews who manned them. While their contribution often remains in the shadow of larger naval engagements, the impact of the WWII submarine fleet is etched into the annals of history as one of the most effective forces in the Allied arsenal.