Soviet Attack Submarines

Main Themes and Topics

Soviet Attack Submarines by Mark H. Glissmeyer delves deep into the history and development of the Soviet Union's submarine fleet. The book meticulously traces the evolution of this naval force following the less-than-stellar performance of the Soviet Navy during World War Two. With a focus on the period from the end of the war to the early Cold War years, Glissmeyer examines how the Soviets managed to build and operate the world's largest submarine fleet in less than a decade.

Key themes include the strategic importance of submarines in establishing Soviet naval dominance and the ways in which these vessels were integrated into the larger goals of asserting world power status. The book provides a thorough overview of the different classes of attack submarines built by the Soviets, their missions, and notable naval operations. It also highlights critical infrastructure developments, such as the construction of new submarines and the proposed plans for building aircraft carriers and cruisers.

Writing Style and Tone

Mark H. Glissmeyer adopts a detailed and analytical writing style that is both informative and engaging. The tone is academic yet accessible, making the subject matter appealing to both naval enthusiasts and general readers interested in military history. Glissmeyer's approach ensures that complex technical information is presented in a clear and understandable manner, aided by the inclusion of 53 figures and charts. These visual aids serve to enhance the reader's comprehension of submarine classes, torpedo evolution, and various naval technologies discussed in the book.

Criticism

While Soviet Attack Submarines is praised for its thorough research and insightful analysis, some readers might find the book's heavy focus on technical details occasionally overwhelming. The abundance of figures and charts, while helpful, might not be as appealing to those who prefer a more narrative-driven historical account. Additionally, the dual perspective—drawing from both U.S. intelligence and Soviet military sources—could present a challenge for readers not familiar with Cold War geopolitics.

Brief Summary

Soviet Attack Submarines provides a comprehensive overview of the Soviet Union's ambitious efforts to establish a powerful naval presence in the post-World War Two era. It outlines the significant progress made under Stalin's regime, detailing the expansion of the submarine fleet, naval strategy, and the technological advancements achieved by the Soviets. The book offers an in-depth look at the various classes of attack submarines and discusses notable incidents at sea, providing insight into the operational challenges faced by the Soviet Navy. Through a meticulously researched narrative, Glissmeyer brings to light the dynamic interplay between military ambition and technical innovation that characterized this pivotal period in naval history.