Submarines

Definition

Submarines are watercraft capable of independent operation underwater, primarily used in naval warfare to stealthily engage enemy ships and submarines. They revolutionized naval combat strategies during conflicts, especially by enabling the use of unrestricted submarine warfare, which targeted both military and civilian vessels without warning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Submarines were first effectively used during World War I, where they played a crucial role in disrupting enemy supply lines through stealth attacks.
2. The design and technology of submarines improved significantly between World War I and World War II, leading to advancements such as the development of sonar and torpedoes.
3. Nations like Germany relied heavily on U-boats to enforce naval blockades against their enemies, demonstrating the strategic importance of submarines in total war.
4. Submarine warfare raised ethical debates regarding the targeting of civilian vessels, leading to significant political and military repercussions during and after conflicts.
5. Post-World War II, submarines continued to evolve with the introduction of nuclear-powered submarines, allowing for longer missions and greater firepower.

Review Questions

• How did the use of submarines change naval warfare strategies during major conflicts?
  • The introduction of submarines fundamentally changed naval warfare by allowing for stealthy engagements that traditional surface ships could not match. Their ability to remain submerged and launch surprise attacks forced navies to adopt new tactics, such as convoy systems for protection. This shift led to an emphasis on anti-submarine warfare technologies and strategies, marking a significant evolution in naval combat.
• Evaluate the impact of unrestricted submarine warfare on international relations during the World Wars.
  • Unrestricted submarine warfare had profound impacts on international relations during both World Wars. It escalated tensions between nations, particularly when neutral vessels were attacked, leading to significant diplomatic incidents. For instance, Germany's U-boat campaigns contributed to the United States entering World War I after civilian ships were sunk, showcasing how submarine tactics could alter the course of global conflict.
• Analyze the long-term implications of submarine warfare technologies on modern military strategies and global security.
  • The advancements in submarine warfare technologies have had lasting implications on modern military strategies and global security. The development of nuclear submarines has allowed nations to maintain a credible second-strike capability in nuclear deterrence strategies. This evolution has led to complex geopolitical dynamics, as nations invest heavily in submarine fleets for strategic advantages while also increasing concerns about arms races and maritime security challenges in contested waters.

Related terms

Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: A type of naval warfare in which submarines sink vessels without warning, effectively allowing attacks on both military and civilian ships.

U-boat: A German submarine used during World War I and World War II, known for its role in disrupting Allied shipping through effective attacks.

Naval Blockade: A military strategy involving the isolation of a specific area by naval forces to prevent passage of goods and military personnel, often used to weaken an enemy's resources.