The German Navy in World War II

The Kriegsmarine, established in 1935 in defiance of the Treaty of Versailles, grew to a peak strength of over 800,000 personnel in 1944. Originally intended to compete with the Royal Navy, the outbreak of World War II shifted their focus to submarine warfare. U-boats, operated by the Kriegsmarine, were responsible for significant damage to Allied shipping across the world. This study by Nigel Thomas delves into the organization, uniforms, and equipment of the Kriegsmarine throughout its ten-year existence. From its origins to the invasion of Norway in 1940, and its transition to ground troops from 1943-45, all branches of the Kriegsmarine are described in detail, including new color artwork and specially selected photographs. Author: Nigel Thomas Illustrator: Johnny Shumate 64 page Softcover