British Submarines in Two World Wars

Norman Friedman's examination of British submarine operations across both world wars stands as a comprehensive technical and operational history that fills a significant gap in naval literature. Drawing on decades of research and unparalleled access to primary sources, Friedman delivers an authoritative account that moves beyond the familiar narratives of German U-boats to illuminate the Royal Navy's often-overlooked submarine force.

The book's greatest strength lies in its meticulous attention to technical development. Friedman traces the evolution of British submarine design from the early Holland and A-class boats through to the sophisticated T-class and S-class vessels of the Second World War. The author demonstrates how British submarine technology progressed in response to operational lessons, tactical requirements, and the limitations imposed by treaty restrictions during the interwar period. His analysis of design decisions, construction challenges, and the trade-offs between range, speed, diving depth, and armament provides readers with a clear understanding of how these vessels came to take their final form.

The treatment of World War I operations reveals the considerable contributions made by British submarines, particularly in the challenging environments of the North Sea, the Baltic, and the Dardanelles. Friedman documents the dangerous patrols conducted in German-controlled waters, the innovative operations in support of Russian forces in the Baltic, and the attempts to interdict Turkish supply lines. The narrative demonstrates how British submariners developed tactics and procedures under fire, often operating in shallow, heavily defended waters where the margin for error was minimal. The account of the E-class submarines' exploits in the Sea of Marmara stands out as particularly compelling, illustrating both the potential and the limitations of submarine warfare during this period.

The interwar chapters examine how budgetary constraints, changing strategic priorities, and the Washington and London Naval Treaties shaped submarine development. Friedman explains how the Royal Navy grappled with questions about the proper role of submarines in fleet operations, the value of large submarine cruisers versus smaller coastal boats, and the ongoing debate over unrestricted submarine warfare. This period saw significant experimentation with steam propulsion, improved battery technology, and various approaches to the perennial problem of underwater detection and targeting.

The World War II sections constitute the bulk of the text and showcase Friedman's ability to weave together technical, tactical, and operational threads. The book examines operations in the Mediterranean, where British submarines played a crucial role in interdicting Axis supply lines to North Africa, often operating from Malta under constant air attack. The Far East campaigns receive substantial coverage, detailing how British and Allied submarines adapted to the vast distances and unique conditions of the Pacific theater. The account of operations in Norwegian waters and the Arctic convoys demonstrates the versatility required of submarine crews operating in extreme conditions.

Friedman does not shy away from discussing failures and setbacks. The heavy losses suffered by British submarines, particularly in the Mediterranean during 1941 and 1942, receive honest assessment. The author analyzes the factors contributing to these losses, including improved Axis anti-submarine measures, the challenges of operating in clear Mediterranean waters, and the limitations of contemporary torpedo technology. The chronic problems with torpedo reliability that plagued both British and American submarines receive appropriate attention.

The book benefits enormously from Friedman's access to official records, including patrol reports, design documents, and operational assessments. This primary source material allows for detailed reconstruction of specific operations and design decisions. The technical appendices provide specifications for various submarine classes, allowing readers to track the evolution of capabilities across both conflicts. The extensive notes and bibliography demonstrate the depth of research underpinning the narrative.

While the technical focus may challenge casual readers, Friedman maintains clarity throughout. Complex engineering concepts are explained in accessible language without oversimplification. The operational accounts provide human context to the technical discussions, though the book remains primarily a history of machines and operations rather than a biographical treatment of individual submariners.

This work serves as an essential reference for naval historians, researchers, and enthusiasts seeking a thorough understanding of British submarine warfare. Friedman's synthesis of technical development and operational experience creates a complete picture of how the Royal Navy's submarine service evolved across three decades of peace and war. The book stands as a definitive account that will remain the standard reference on this subject for years to come.