The Milk Cows: The U-Boat Tankers at War 1941 D 1945

During World War II, the Germans developed a fleet of U-boat oil tankers called "Milk Cows" to extend the range and duration of their attacks. These tankers were essential to the U-boat fleet, but they were vulnerable to Allied attacks, which led to heavy losses. Despite their success in the early years of the war, the Allies eventually broke the German rendezvous ciphers, and the Milk Cows were sunk with severe loss of life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

During the Second World War, the Germans undertook the development of a specialized U-boat oil tanker, with two primary objectives. Firstly, by refueling the attack U-boat fleet, their operational range and duration of patrol could be significantly extended. Secondly, these underwater tankers possessed a much higher likelihood of evading detection compared to surface support ships. These submarine tankers, affectionately referred to as "Milk Cows," were considered by both the Germans and the Allies as the most vital component of the U-boat fleet. Allied forces were instructed to prioritize attacking the tankers whenever the opportunity arose.

From late 1942 until 1943, the German Milk Cows operated with remarkable success and minimal losses. However, from that year onward, the Allies managed to repeatedly break the German rendezvous ciphers, leading to a rapid increase in losses. The Milk Cows were particularly vulnerable during the lengthy refueling process, as they remained stationary on the surface with their hatches open. By the end of the war, virtually every tanker had been sunk, resulting in a severe loss of life.

The author has conducted extensive research on this critical campaign, presenting the story against the backdrop of evolving U-boat fortunes.

Weight: 466g
Dimension: 232 x 162 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399085199