Cruisers of the III Reich: Volume 2

This book is a compilation of stories about German cruisers in Kriegsmarine service, including their construction, history, and photographs from private collections. It also includes detailed technical specifications and illustrations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2022
Publisher: Wydawnictwo STRATUS, Artur Juszczak

This comprehensive compilation presents a comprehensive collection of narratives encompassing all German cruisers that served in the Kriegsmarine during World War II. Authored by the author, the book offers a chronological account of these vessels, focusing on their construction, distinctive features, and notable differences. Delving into the history of the Kriegsmarine, the author endeavors to capture the intricacies and peculiarities of this policy while also acknowledging the influential individuals who shaped their destiny.

Numerous high-quality photographs, primarily sourced from private collections, enhance the visual appeal of the book. Each ship is meticulously described and illustrated with comprehensive technical specifications, providing a detailed insight into their design and capabilities. The text is accompanied by an abundance of scale drawings and color illustrations, further enhancing the reader's understanding and appreciation of these naval vessels.

Vol. 1 of the compilation focuses on the following German cruisers:
1. Nurnberg: Launched in 1939, Nurnberg served as the flagship of the German cruiser fleet during the early stages of World War II. She played a significant role in the Battle of the Atlantic and was renowned for her powerful guns and sturdy construction.
2. Admiral Hipper: Commissioned in 1937, Admiral Hipper was one of the most formidable German cruisers. She was equipped with a formidable array of guns and was known for her speed and agility. Hipper participated in several key battles, including the Battle of the North Cape and the Battle of the Atlantic.
3. Blucher: Launched in 1936, Blucher was another notable German cruiser. She was designed for anti-aircraft warfare and was equipped with a powerful array of guns and flak cannons. Blucher played a significant role in the defense of the Baltic Sea and the invasion of Poland.
4. Prinz Eugen: Commissioned in 1939, Prinz Eugen was a fast and heavily armed cruiser. She was designed to engage in long-range combat and was equipped with a formidable array of guns and torpedoes. Prinz Eugen participated in several key battles, including the Battle of the Atlantic and the Battle of the Mediterranean.
5. Lutzow/Seydlitz: Originally known as Lutzow, this cruiser was renamed Seydlitz in 1940. She was a versatile vessel that served as a commerce raider, escort carrier, and anti-aircraft cruiser. Lutzow/Seydlitz participated in several raids on Allied shipping and played a significant role in the defense of the Baltic Sea.

Vol. 2 of the compilation continues the exploration of German cruisers, covering the following ships:
1. Bayern: Launched in 1938, Bayern was a fast and heavily armed cruiser. She was designed for long-range combat and was equipped with a formidable array of guns and torpedoes. Bayern played a significant role in the defense of the Baltic Sea and the invasion of Poland.
2. Leipzig: Commissioned in 1939, Leipzig was a fast and heavily armed cruiser. She was designed for anti-aircraft warfare and was equipped with a powerful array of guns and flak cannons. Leipzig participated in several key battles, including the Battle of the Atlantic and the Battle of the Mediterranean.
3. Emden: Launched in 1936, Emden was a fast and heavily armed commerce raider. She was designed to engage in commerce raiding operations against Allied shipping and was equipped with a formidable array of guns and torpedoes. Emden was a major threat to Allied shipping in the early stages of World War II and was eventually sunk by the Royal Australian Navy in 1941.
4. Königsberg: Commissioned in 1939, Königsberg was a fast and heavily armed cruiser. She was designed for anti-aircraft warfare and was equipped with a powerful array of guns and flak cannons. Königsberg participated in several key battles, including the Battle of the Atlantic and the Battle of the Mediterranean.
5. Scharnhorst: Launched in 1939, Scharnhorst was a fast and heavily armed commerce raider. She was designed to engage in commerce raiding operations against Allied shipping and was equipped with a formidable array of guns and torpedoes. Scharnhorst was a major threat to Allied shipping in the early stages of World War II and was eventually sunk by the Royal Navy in 1944.

In conclusion, this comprehensive compilation offers a valuable insight into the history and development of German cruisers during World War II. Through detailed narratives, high-quality photographs, and comprehensive illustrations, readers gain a deeper understanding of these naval vessels and their role in the conflict. Whether you are a historian, military enthusiast, or simply interested in naval history, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the fascinating world of German cruisers.

Weight: 700g
Dimension: 215 x 303 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788365958853