During the Second World War the Germans developed a specially adapted U-boat oil tanker with two aims. First, by refueling the attack U-boat fleet their range of operations and duration of patrol could be significantly increased. Secondly, these underwater tankers were far more likely to avoid detection than surface support ships.
The submarine tankers, affectionately known as 'Milk Cows', were regarded by both the Germans and the Allies as the most important element of the U-boat fleet. Allied forces had orders to attack the tankers first whenever a choice was presented.
Until late 1942 the German Milk Cows operated with great success and few losses. But from 1943 onwards the German rendezvous ciphers were repeatedly broken by the Allies and losses mounted rapidly.
Название: The Milk Cows: The U-Boat Tankers at War 1941 - 1945
Автор: John F. White
Издательство: Pen and Sword
Год издания: 2009
ISBN: 184884008X
Формат: PDF
Страниц: 330
Язык: Английский
Размер: 13,6 МБ
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