Layout of German Type VIIC U-boat

This drawing shows the layout of a German Type VIIC U-boat. Starting from the bow, there were four torpedo tubes in the forward torpedo room (which is where most of the crewmen slept on retractable bunks). Moving aft, the toilet and chief petty officers’ berths were next, then the officers’ and commander’s berths. The radio and sonar rooms were opposite the commander’s berth. Next came the control room with the navigation and diving controls and the two periscopes. Moving aft, the petty officers’ quarters were next and then the galley (or kitchen). Further aft was the diesel engine room with two diesel engines (one for each propeller). The diesel engines were used to power the U-boat on the surface. Next was the electric motor room with two electric motors, which were used for power when the submarine was submerged. At the stern of the sub was the aft torpedo room with one torpedo tube. Above the control room was the conning tower, where the commander used the attack periscope for submerged torpedo attacks. Above the conning tower was the bridge, where crewmen stood when the U-boat was on the surface. The anti-aircraft guns were located behind the bridge. The main deck gun (88 mm) is not shown in this drawing but was located on the deck of the submarine just forward of the conning tower. The main gun was used to sink small vessels.

The observation periscope was used for searching the sea for ships and the sky for enemy planes. It was also adapted for use at night. The attack periscope was used for aiming and launching torpedoes at target ships.

U-69 was the first Type VIIC U-boat built by Germany.

Click here for a more detailed shipyard plan of a Type VIIC submarine.