U-159 - 3rd War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

Departed
Date
Arrived
Date
Days at Sea
Lorient
24 August 1942
Lorient
5 January 1943
135

 

Click the icon to download a KMZ file displaying the U-boat track, significant events and locations for this patrol.  You must have Google Earth loaded on your computer to view this file.  Download Google Earth here

 

Ships Hit
Date
KTB Time
Position
Ship
Tons
Nationality
Convoy
7 Oct 42
23.55 - 00.06
35°09'S, 16°34'E
BORINGIA
5,821
British
 
8 Oct 42
09.05
34°57'S, 16°50'E
CLAN MACTAVISH
7.631
British
 
9 Oct 42
11.54
35°51'S, 14°58'E
COLORADAN
6,557
American
 
13 Oct 42
13.37 - 14.46
37°57'S, 18°26'E
EMPIRE NOMAD
7,167
British
 
29 Oct 42
12.27 - 13.32
39°03'S, 22°10'E
ROSS
4,978
British
 
29 Oct 42
10.34 - 12.44
40°39'S, 21°54'E
LAPLACE
7,327
British
7 Nov 42
22.50
37°09'S, 13°38'E
LA SALLE
5,462
American
13 Nov 42
09.05 - 09.55
26°45'S, 0°15'E
STAR OF SCOTLAND
2,290
American
 
13 Dec 42
22.05
0°27'S, 28°00'W
CITY OF BOMBAY
7,140
British
 
15 Dec 42
0°27'N, 30°15'W
STAR OF SUEZ
4,999
Egyptian
 
16 Dec 42
20.39
0°33'N, 31°33'W
EAST WALES
4,358
British
TRIN-27
     
 Total = 63,730
   
Note:  The positions in the table above and in the Google Earth patrol summary are derived from the KTB and in many cases do not match those set forth in authoritative references such as Jürgen Rohwer, Axis Submarine Successes of World War Two or the Uboat.net website.  The goal here is to present the picture relative to the U-boat and not the absolute position that the ship was attacked or sank.

 

U-159 became a member of Group Group Eisbär as a replacement for U156 .  The Group was ordered to conduct a surprise attack in the roadstead and then operate in the Cape Town area.  The Eisbär Operations Order is found in the last pages of the BdU KTB for 1-15 August 1942 (pages 96-104).  There is also a note from the Naval Staff on the first page of the KTB (page 64).  Click the BdU icon to see the BdU KTB.

 


 
                                                                                     Anlage . . 2 . .zu 10.Ufl.  Gkdos.  47 of 9.1.43
 
           
           
           
           
                                                            Copy No.    . . 2 . . .  
                                                            ==============  
                                 
           
                               K  r  i  e  g  s  t  a  g  e  b  u  c  h  
                               -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-  
           
        of  
           
                                  Unterseebootes    "  1  5  9  "  
                                  -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=  
           
              Kommandant        :    Kapitänleutnant    Helmut    W  i  t  t  e  
           
     
        Beginning              :    14 July 1942.
   
        Concluding           :      5 January 1943.
   
                                         -.-.-.-.-
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
Distribution           :       
Oberkommando der Kriegsmarine Copy No. 1 and 2
Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote      "     " 3
2. Admiral der Unterseeboote      "     " 4
10. Unterseebootesflottille      "     " 5
2. U.-Fl. for 2. U.L.D. and 25. U.-Fl.      "     " 6
Agru-Front for Kaptlt. Jebsen, for 1.U.L.D.,    
                       24. and 26. U.-Flottille      "     " 7
 
           
           
     
Enclosures            :      
1 Track chart To Copy No. 1, 3, 4, 5.
1 Excerpt of the Radio Log   "       "     " 3, 4, 5.
15 Torpedo firing reports   "       "     " 3, 4, 5.
20 Barograph strips   "       "     " 3.
 
           
           
           
           
                                           
           
           
        © U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved  
Click the flag to view the above page from the original German KTB
 
- 3 -
 
           
           
           
           
    14. - 15.07.42 Lorient Provisions and fuel offload, cleared the boat.  
    16.07. - 12.08.42     " Shipyard period Keroman Bunker.  
    13. - 20.08.42     " Wet bunker S 2.  (pier side testing, torpedo loading, sea trial, tightness test.).  
    21.08.42     " Took over the boat, ammunition loading.  
    22.08.42     " Provisions loading.  
    23.08.42     " Final trim test, balanced the boat.  
    24.08.42      
    15.00     " Departed for 3rd patrol.  With outer escort up to Point "Kern".  
                                                     
    25.08.42 Bay of Biscay    
    00.00   Course 236°. 14 knots.  
    03.52   After ending escort dived to proceed submerged.  
    04.00 BF 5572    
    07.16   Surfaced to charge.  
    08.00 BF 5733    
    10.45   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 BF 5783 Day's run:  = 152 nm,  = 10 nm  
      φ = 45°52'N    
      λ = 6°03'W    
    16.00 BF 5785    
    19.23   Surfaced to charge.  
    20.00 BF 8216    
      WSW 2, Sea 2, 9/10, (fog), Vis. medium    
    22.04   Dived to proceed submerged.  
                                                     
    26.08.42 Bay of Biscay    
    00.00 BF 8192 Course 240°, 2 knots.  
    04.00 BF 8194    
    07.26   Surfaced to charge.  
    08.00 BF 8185    
    12.00 BF 7653 Day's run:  = 104 nm,  = 36 nm  
      φ = 44°21'N    
      λ = 8°24'W    
      WSW 5, Sea 3-4, 7/10 (rain), Vis. medium    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 24.08.42
Sun and Moon Data 25.08.42
Sun and Moon Data 26.08.42
 
- 4 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    26.08.42      
    12.42 BF 7654 Crash dive for aircraft bearing 210°T, course 90°, Proceeded submerged.  
    16.00 BF 7646    
    18.02   Surfaced to charge.  
    20.00 BF 7594    
    22.32   Dived to proceed submerged.  
                                                     
    27.08.42 Cape Finisterre    
    00.00 BF 7811 Course 255°, 2 knots.  
    04.00 BF 7735    
    07.45   Surfaced to charge.  
    08.00 BF 7726    
    08.28 BF 7728 Crash dive for aircraft bearing 270°T, course 1xx°.  
    09.12   Surfaced.  
    12.00 BE 9664 Day's run:  = 120 nm,  = 29 nm  
      φ = 43°23'N    
      λ = 11°50'W    
      WNW 2, Sea 1, 6/10, Vis. good    
    16.00 BE 9946    
    20.00 BE 9883    
    23.04   Dived to proceed submerged.  
                                                     
    28.08.42 Cape Finisterre    
    00.00 BE 9877 Course 253°, 2 knots.  
    04.00 BE 9799    
    08.00 CG 1113    
    08.40 CG 1113 Outgoing position Short Signal.  
      CF 3337 Day's run:  = 132 nm,  = 18 nm  
      φ = 42°38'N    
      λ = 16°23'W [typo 15°23'W]    
      WNW 4, Sea 3-4, 7/10, Vis. medium    
    16.00 CF 3348    
    20.00 CF 3299    
    22.28   Because "Remus" reported a convoy in CF 67, Outgoing Radio Message (2131):  From "Witte":  
      1.)  Aircraft:  26 August 12.42 hours 7654, 27 August 08.28 hours 7728.  Both naval square BF.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.08.42
Sun and Moon Data 27.08.42
Sun and Moon Data 28.08.42
 
- 5 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    28.08.42   2)  No detections.  
        3.)  Naval square CF 3534, NNW 3, high pressure weather.  Question operating on "Remus" convoy.  
    23.15   Orders to switch to "Ireland" circuit and operate on "Remus" convoy.  
        GF, course 130°.  
                                                     
    29.08.42 West of Spain    
    00.00 CF 3553 Course 130°, 15 knots.  
    02.04 CF 3832 Crash dive, detection 22°.  
    04.00 CF 3855    
    05.36   Surfaced. Initially operated on NE-course, after sinking report by "Remus" on NW course.  At HF awaited further contact reports.  Weather is misty, no indication of convoy position.  This was reported by Radio Message and requested further orders.  
    08.00 CF 3892    
    08.14   Italian U-boat type "NANI" passed to port, 6 nm away on opposite course.  
    08.43   Incoming orders:  Continue outbound transit.  
    12.00 CF 6222 Day's run:  = 191 nm,  = 2 nm  
      φ = 40°12'N    
      λ = 16°55'W    
      WNW 4, Sea 3, 4/10, Vis. good, at times misty    
    12.28   Meeting with "Hirsacker".  
    16.00 CF 6169    
    20.00 CF 6186    
                                                     
    30.08.42 West of Spain    
    00.00 CF 6442    
    04.00 CF 5616    
    08.00 CF 5916    
    12.00 CF 5865 Day's run:  = 204 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 37°56'N    
      λ = 20°00'W    
      W 2, Sea 2, overcast (rain), Vis. changing    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.08.42
Sun and Moon Data 29.08.42
Sun and Moon Data 30.08.42
 
- 6 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    30.08.42      
    16.00 CF 5887    
    19.00   Tomorrow morning at 08.00 hours switch to "Ireland" Circuit.  
    20.00 CF 8245    
    21.30 - 22.10   Test dive.  
    23.15   Incoming Radio Message (28.8.2148):  
        1.)  "Witte" via CF 70, DG 90 to ET 50.  Naval squares.  
        2.)  ect. . .  
                                                     
    31.08.42 East of the Azores    
    00.00 CF 8199 Course 210°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 CF 8429    
    08.00 CF 8447    
    12.00 CF 7686 Day's run:  = 191 nm,  = 1.8 nm  
      φ = 35°48'N    
      λ = 22°45'W    
      N 2, Sea 1, 7/10, Vis. good, long Swell    
    16.00 CF 7917    
    20.00 CF 7896    
                                                     
    01.09.42 South of the Azores    
    00.00 DG 3338 Course 194°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 DG 3397    
    08.00 DG 3659    
    12.00 DG 3929 Day's run:  = 194 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 32°46'N    
      λ = 24°00'W    
      SW 1, Sea 1, 3/10, Vis. good    
    16.00 DG 3985    
    20.00 DG 6351    
    21.30 - 21.50   Test dive.  
                                                     
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.08.42
Sun and Moon Data 31.08.42
Sun and Moon Data 01.09.42
 
- 7 -
 
           
           
           
           
    02.09.42 South of the Azores    
    00.00 DG 6379 Course 194°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 DG 6644    
    08.00 DG 6911    
    12.00 DG 6895 Day's run:  = 189 nm,  = 1.2 nm  
      φ = 29°55'N    
      λ = 24°50'W    
      NE 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 DG 9264    
    20.00 DG 9523    
                                                     
    03.09.42 West of the Canary Islands    
    00.00 DG 9558 Course 183°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 DG 9825    
    08.00 DG 9884    
    12.00 DT 1363 Day's run:  = 196 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 26°21'N    
      λ = 25°23'W    
      NNE 5, Sea 4, 4/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 DT 1629    
    20.00 DT 1932    
                                                     
    04.09.42 North of the Cape Verde Islands    
    00.00 DT 1952 Course 180°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 DT 3422    
    08.00 DT 4358    
    12.00 DT 4628 Day's run:  = 188 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 22°50'N    
      λ = 25°48'W    
      NE 4-5, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 DT 4657    
    20.00 DT 4924    
    21.40   Test dive and damage control exercises.  
                                                     
    05.09.42 North of the Cape Verde Islands    
    00.00 DT 4984 Course 180°, 8 knots.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 02.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 03.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 04.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 05.09.42
 
- 8 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    05.09.42      
    04.00 DT 7351    
    08.00 DT 7621    
    12.00 DT 7646 Day's run:  = 183 nm,  = 3.2 nm  
      φ = 19°56'N    
      λ = 26°00'W    
      NE 3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    13.11   Received orders to head for operations area via FD 10 and 20 and remain in this area 3 days or according to the situation.  
    16.00 DT 7912    
    20.00 DT 7945    
                                                     
    06.09.42 Cape Verde Islands    
    00.00 EJ 1313 Course 180°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 EJ 1373    
    08.00 EJ 1618    
    09.57 EJ 1646 Santo Antão in sight bearing 100°T, 35 nm away.  
    12.00 EJ 1673 Day's run:  = 184 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 17°01'N    
      λ = 26°00'W    
      NE 5, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Vis. good, at times misty    
    16.00 EJ 1917    
    20.00 EJ 1891    
    21.00 - 21.38   Test dive.  
                                                     
    07.09.42 Southwest of Cape Verde Islands    
    00.00 EJ 4228 Course 206°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 EJ 4274    
    08.00 EJ 4462    
    12.00 EJ 4486 Day's run:  = 188 nm,  = 1.8 nm  
      φ = 14°14'N    
      λ = 27°30'W    
      E 3, Sea 2, 4/10 Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 EJ 4743    
    20.00 EJ 4774    
           
Sun and Moon Data 05.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 06.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 07.09.42
 
- 9 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    07.09.42      
    22.18   Incoming Radio Message (2139):  To "Witte":  
        From FD 10 and 20 continue transit to sea area around FH 9670.  Do not cross the latitude of FP 2110 to the south.  
                                                     
    08.09.42 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 EH 9337 Course 206°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 EH 9384    
    08.00 EH 9618    
    11.00   Mastheads bearing 110°T, 14 nm.  
    12.00 EH 9568 Day's run:  = 176 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 11°55'N    
      λ = 29°04'W    
      NNW 2, Sea 1, 3/10, Vis. very good, long Swell    
    12.02   Dived for submerged attack.  
    12.59 EH 9671 Three-multiple shot from tubes I, II and III:  
        Target speed = 15 knots, target angle = red 110°, range = 2000 meters, torpedo speed = 30 knots, depth = 4 meters, own speed 3 knots, own course 70°, enemy course = 10°, running time:  not observed.  
        Miss, probably target speed was 17-18 knots, because pursuit had to be broken off due to too high enemy speed.  
        Steamer type:  "PANAMA", 2 bow, 3 stern cannons visible.  
    13.09   Heavy underwater detonation, suspect end of run detonation.  Steamer begins to shoot randomly with stern cannons and to zigzag heavily.  
    13.31   Surfaced, pursued.  
    13.46   Pursuit broken off, because the steamer is out of sight.  
    16.00 EH 9589 Southerly transit.  
    20.00 EH 9851    
                                                     
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 07.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 08.09.42
 
- 10 -
 
           
           
           
           
    09.09.42 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 EH 9877 Course 205°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 ER 3163    
    08.00 ER 3189    
    12.00 ER 3451 Day's run:  = 182 nm,  = 4.3 nm  
      φ = 9°12'N    
      λ = 30°20'W    
      NW 3, Sea 2, overcast (rain), Vis. changing    
    16.00 ER 3478    
    20.00 ER 2963    
    21.02 - 21.40   Test dive.  
                                                     
    10.09.42 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 ER 3771 Course 150°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 ER 6116    
    08.00 ER 6159    
    12.00 ER 6198 Day's run:  = 162 nm,  = 1.2 nm  
      φ = 7°00'N    
      λ = 30°00'W    
      SSW 5, Sea 4, 7/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 ER 6558    
    20.00 ER 6597    
                                                     
    11.09.42 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 ER 6863 Course 150°, 7.5 knots  
    04.00 ER 6871    
    08.00 ER 9324    
    12.00 ER 9395 Day's run:  = 176 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 4°23'N    
      λ = 28°08'W    
      S 3, Sea 2, 6/10, Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 ER 9638    
    20.00 - ER 9656    
    21.01   Test dive.  
                                                     
           
Sun and Moon Data 09.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 10.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 11.09.42
 
- 11 -
 
           
           
           
           
    12.09.42      
    00.00 ER 9912 Course 220°, 7.5 knots  
    04.00 ER 9866    
    08.00 ER 9888    
    12.00 FC 3252 Day's run:  = 174 nm,  = 3 nm  
      φ = 2°02'N    
      λ = 29°24'W    
      S 2, Sea 1, 4/10, Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 FC 3292    
    20.00 FC 3378    
                                                     
    13.09.42 Central Atlantic (Equator)    
    00.00 FC 3626 Course 120°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 FC 3663    
    08.00 FD 1457    
    12.00 FD 1495 Day's run:  = 156 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 0°42'N    
      λ = 27°14'W    
      SSE 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 FD 1824    
    17.18   Received orders to report position by Short Signal.  
    19.21   Outgoing Short Signal:  My position is FD 1826.  
    20.00 FD 1826    
    21.00 - 21.21   Test dive.  
                                                     
    14.09.42 Equator    
    00.00 FD 1919 Course 80°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 FD 1938    
    05.49   Received orders to steer precautionary SE course at economical speed.  
    08.00 FD 2719    
    12.00 FD 2759 Day's run:  = 177 nm,  = 1.5 nm  
      φ = 0°10'N    
      λ = 24°46'W    
      SE 4, Sea 3, 4/10, Vis. good, light Swell    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 12.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 13.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 14.09.42
 
- 12 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    14.09.42      
    13.25   Incoming Radio Message (1219):  
        1.) "Witte" course SE for possible replacement for "Hartenstein" in Group "Eisbär", do not go to sinking location.  
        2.)  etc.  . . .  
    16.00 FD 2796    
    20.00 FD 5213    
                                                     
    15.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FD 5253 Course 135°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 FD 5296    
    08.00 FD 5627    
    12.00 FD 5691 Day's run:  = 168 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 1°48'S    
      λ = 22°52'W    
      SE 4, Sea 3, 5/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    12.53   Incoming Radio Message (1208):  
        "Witte" takes the place of "Hartenstein" in Group "Eisbär", receive a copy of Operations Order from "Wilamowitz" at supply.  Supply place and further instructions by Officer-Only Radio Message.  
        etc. . . .  
    14.44   Incoming Officer-Only Radio Message concerning supply place.  
    16.00 FD 5699 Ordered day's run 180 nm.  
    20.00 FD 6719    
    20.45 - 20.57   Test dive.  
                                                     
    16.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FD 6759 Course 137°, 6.5 knots.  
    04.00 FD 6799    
    08.00 FD 9219    
    12.00 FD 9292 Day's run:  = 161 nm,  = 1.2 nm  
      φ = 3°41'S    
      λ = 20°58'W    
    16.00 FD 9615    
    20.00 FD 9655    
                                                     
           
Sun and Moon Data 14.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 15.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 16.09.42
 
- 13 -
 
           
           
           
           
    17.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FD 9935 Course 135°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 FE 7749    
    08.00 FE 7785    
    12.00 FL 3131 Day's run:  = 164 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 5°48'S    
      λ = 19°12'W    
      ESE 5, Sea 4, 9/10, Vis. medium, medium Swell    
    16.00 FL 3244    
    20.00 FL 3284    
                                                     
    18.09.42 South Atlantic (Ascension)    
    00.00 FL 3524 Course 130°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 FL 3571    
    08.00 FL 3672    
    12.00 FL 3926 Day's run:  = 172 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 7°37'S    
      λ = 17°34'W    
      ESE 5, Sea 4, 9/10, Vis. medium, medium Swell    
    16.00 FM 1757    
    20.00 FM 41    
                                                     
    19.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FM 45 Course 130°, 9.5 knots.  
    04.00 FM 45    
    08.00 FM 49    
    12.00 FM 49 Day's run:  = 228 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 10°48'S    
      λ = 14°41'W    
      ESE 5, Sea 4, 7/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 FM 81    
    20.00 FM 81    
                                                     
    20.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FM 85 Course 130°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 FM 85    
    08.00 FM 85    
    12.00 FM 89 Day's run:  = 189 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 13°07'S    
      λ = 12°25'W    
      SE 5, Sea 4, 9/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 17.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 18.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 19.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 20.09.42
 
- 14 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    20.09.42      
    15.15   Received orders to take over "Merten" task.  
    16.00 FM 89    
    20.00 - FT 31    
    20.22   Test dive.  
                                                     
    21.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FT 31 Course 132°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 FT 31    
    08.00 FT 35    
    12.00 FT 35 Day's run:  = 189 nm,  = 1.2 nm  
      φ = 15°22'S    
      λ = 10°20'W    
      ESE 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 FT 39    
    20.00 FT 39    
    23.35   Steamer bearing 300°T, 5 nm away. Moved off.  
                                                     
    22.09.42 St. Helena    
    00.00 FU 41 Course 134°, 8.5 knots.  
    04.00 FU 41    
    08.00 FU 41    
    12.00 FU 45 Day's run:  = 206 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 17°40'S    
      λ = 7°59'W    
      SE 4, Sea 3, 6/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 FU 45    
    20.00 FU 49    
    23.12 - 232.40   Test dive.  
                                                     
    23.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FU 49 Course 133°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 FU 81    
    08.00 FU 81    
    12.00 FU 81 Day's run:  = 179 nm,  = 1.6 nm  
      φ = 19°55'S    
      λ = 5°50'W    
      E 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good, medium Swell    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 20.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 21.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 22.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 23.09.42
 
- 15 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    23.09.42 FU 85    
    20.00 FU 85    
                                                     
    24.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FU 89 Course 135°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 FU 89    
    08.00 FU 89    
    12.00 GG 11 Day's run:  = 192 nm,  = 1.8 nm  
      φ = 22°18'S    
      λ = 3°24'W    
      E 4, Sea 3, 3/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    14.57 - 15.35   Test dive.  
    16.00 GG 11    
    20.00 GG 15    
                                                     
    25.09.42      
    00.00 GG 15 Course 135, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 GG 19    
    08.00 GG 19    
    12.00 GG 1999 Day's run:  = 186 nm,  = 1.8 nm  
      φ = 24°40'S    
      λ = 1°02'W    
      ENE 2, Sea 2, 9/10, Vis. good, medium-long Swell    
    13.20   U-459 in sight.  
    14.30   Began fuel oil and provisions take over.  
    16.00 GG 1999    
    20.00 GG 1999    
    20.15   Take over ended, afterwards one Ato taken over.  
                                                     
    26.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GG 1999    
    04.00 GG 1999    
    08.00 GG 1999    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 23.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 24.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 25.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 26.09.42
 
- 16 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    26.09.42      
    08.45 - 09.45   One Ato taken over.  Total take over:  
      NW 2, Sea 1, 7/10, Vis. very good, long Swell 122.4 cbm fuel oil, 1950 liters lubricating oil, 30 day's provisions, 2 Atos.  
    10.15   Continued southerly transit.  
    12.00 GG 19 Day's run:  = 31 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 24°30'S    
      λ = 1°10'W    
      NNW 2, Sea 1-2, 9/10, Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 GG 51    
    20.00 GG 51    
    20.40 - 22.37   Test dive, damage control exercises.  There is still much time before 0-Day off Cape Town which I will use for training.  
                                                     
    27.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 CG 52 Course 128°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 CG 55    
    08.00 CG 56    
    12.00 GG 56 Day's run:  = 167 nm,  = 3.8 nm  
      φ = 26°20'S    
      λ = 1°20'E    
      SSE 3, Sea 2, 3/10, Vis. very good, long Swell    
    16.00 CG 59    
    20.00 CG 67    
                                                     
    28.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 CG 67 Course 128°, 6.5 knots.  
    04.00 CG 92    
    08.00 CG 92    
    12.00 GG 92 Day's run:  = 156 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 27°55'S    
      λ = 3°30'E    
      E 1, Sea 1, 9/10, Vis. good, long Swell    
    16.00 GG 96    
    16.56 - 17.20   Test dive and crash dive training.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 27.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 28.09.42
 
- 17 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    28.09.42      
    20.00 CG 96    
    22.18 - 23.55   Submerged damage control exercises.  
                                                     
    29.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GG 96 Course 130°, 5.5 knots.  
    04.00 GH 74    
    08.00 GH 74    
    12.00 GH 78 Day's run:  = 135 nm,  = 4.2 nm  
      φ = 29°25'S    
      λ = 5°32'E    
      SW 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 GH 78    
    16.53 - 18.03   Test dive, crash dive training.  
    20.00 GH 79    
                                                     
    30.09.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GQ 23 Course 130°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 23    
    08.00 GQ 23    
    12.00 GQ 23 Day's run:  = 136 nm,  = 3.6 nm  
      φ = 30°48'S    
      λ = 7°25'E    
      ESE 5, Sea 4, 9/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 GQ 34    
    20.00 GQ 34    
                                                     
    01.10.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GQ 34 Course 127°, 5.5 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 38    
    08.00 GQ 38    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 29.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 30.09.42
Sun and Moon Data 01.10.42
 
- 18 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    01.10.42      
    12.00 GQ 38 Day's run:  = 132 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 32°13'S    
      λ = 9°23'E    
      E 3, Sea 2, 9/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 GQ 38    
    20.00 GQ 63    
                                                     
    02.10.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GQ 63 Course 115°, 5.5 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 63    
    08.00 GQ 63    
    09.24   Smoke cloud bearing 270°T, it is a steamer on course 110°.  
    09.43   Dived to proceed submerged, because the boat must remain unnoticed until 0-Day.  
    10.36   6000 GRT steamer with 3 masts passed at 8000 meters range - pity!!  
    12.00 GR 44 Day's run:  = 128 nm,  = 3.8 nm  
      φ = 33°33'S    
      λ = 11°33'E    
      S 3, Sea 2, 5/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    12.35 - 13.36   Surfaced for midday navigation fix, in accordance with orders the remaining 300 nm coastal strip dived by day.  
    16.00 GR 44    
    19.30   Surfaced.  
    20.00 GR 44    
                                                     
    03.10.42 West of South Africa    
    00.00 GR 45 Course 115°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 GR 45    
    07.26   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    08.00 GR 45    
    12.00 GR 45 Day's run:  = 106 nm,  = 6 nm  
      φ = 24°14'S    
      λ = 13°38'E    
      WNW 4, Sea 3, 9/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 01.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 02.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 03.10.42
 
- 19 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    03.10.42      
    12.43 - 13.13   Surfaced to take a mid day navigation fix.  
    16.00 GR 45    
    19.17   Surfaced.  
    20.00 GR 46    
                                                     
    04.10.42 West of Cape Town    
    00.00 GR 46 Course 118°, 7 knots  
    04.00 GR 49    
    07.04   Dived to proceed submerged.  
        Intention:  On 8 October (0-Day) 00.30 hours be in GR 5912, that is in the direct vicinity of the focal point in my operations area in accordance with "Eisbär" Orders.  Until then observe the inbound and outbound west and south traffic.  
    08.00 GR 49    
    12.00 GR 49 Day's run:  = 76 nm,  = 12.5 nm  
      φ = 35°04'S    
      λ = 14°50'E    
      SW 4, Sea 3, 3/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    12.26   Surfaced for midday navigation fix.  
    13.30   Steamer bearing 270°T, 14 nm away, course 80°.  
    13.42   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    14.32   Second steamer bearing 70°T, 6 nm away, course 250°.  No zigzag, size 5000 and 3500 GRT.  
    16.00 GR 57    
    18.25   Surfaced.  
    20.00 GR 57    
                                                     
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 03.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 04.10.42
 
- 20 -
 
           
           
           
           
    05.10.42 Off Cape Town    
    00.00 GR 57 Course 115°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 GR 58    
    06.57   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    08.00 GR 82    
    12.00 GR 82 Day's run:  = 86 nm,  = 12 nm  
      φ = 35°37'S    
      λ = 16°33'E    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 4/10, Vis, good, light Swell    
    12.12   At periscope depth smoke cloud bearing 20°T.  
    12.26   Surfaced for midday navigation fix.  
    13.06   2nd smoke cloud bearing 265°T.  
    13.20   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    16.00 GR 82    
    18.42   Surfaced.  
    19.32   Veil of smoke bearing 245°T.  
    20.00 GR 83    
                                                     
    06.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GR 8349 Course 115°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 GR 8387    
    06.15   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    08.00 GR 9418    
    12.00 GR 9426 Day's run:  = 78 nm,  = 52 nm  
      φ = 36°29'S    
      λ = 19°11'E    
      NE 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    12.20 - 13.46   Surfaced for midday navigation fix.  
    16.00 GR 9425    
    20.00 GR 9411    
                                                     
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 05.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 06.10.42
 
- 21 -
 
           
           
           
           
    07.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GR 8365 Course 320°, 6.4 knots.  
        "Emmermann" reports Roadstead empty and requests freedom to attack.  
    00.43   Received orders:  Still no freedom to attack, 0-Day is the night of 11 October.  
    04.00 GR 8322    
    07.00   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    08.00 GR 5977    
    12.00 GR 5893 Day's run:  = 96 nm,  = 56.6 nm  
      φ = 35°11'S    
      λ = 17°11'E    
      NNW 3, Sea 2, 7/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    12.30 - 13.42   Surfaced for midday navigation fix.  
    16.00 GR 5855    
    17.02   At periscope depth smoke cloud bearing 290°T, 16 nm away.  It is a 6000 GRT steamer, that passes at 2000 meters on course 80°.  
    19.26   Surfaced.  
    20.00 GR 5856    
    20.38   Light bearing 110°T, 8 nm away.  
    20.48   Incoming Radio Message (1006):  Group "Eisbär" and "Sobe":
        1.)  Order concerning set attack date on 10 October canceled.  
        2.)  On the basis of "Merten" situation report attack free for all boats from 8 October 00.00 hours.  
        Therefore came about and pursued the light at GF, may be able to hang on to the steamer!! Then can let the shot go at 0-hour!  
    22.15   Steamer with position lights bearing 200°T.  
    23.55 GR 5881 Shot from tube I:  
      WSW 3, Sea 2-3, 9/10, Vis. good, medium Swell, marine phosphorescence Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = green 60°, range = 8 knots, torpedo speed 30 knots, depth = 3.5 meters, own speed 4 knots, own course 102°, enemy course = 240°, running time = 38 seconds = 600 meters.  
        Hit center.  Steamer stopped, did not transmit.  
                                                     
    08.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GR 5881    
    00.06   Coup de grâce from tube V:  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 07.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 08.10.42
 
- 22 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    08.10.42      
        Target speed = 1 knots, target angle = red 60°, range = 800 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, depth = 4 meters, running time = 66 seconds.  
        Hit:  aft 20 meters.  
    00.16   Steamer sunk.  It was the 8482 GRT South African motor ship "SELANDIA" (ex Dane), home port:  Durban.  
    04.00 GR 5878    
    06.10   Steamer bearing 80°T, 12 nm away, course 60°.  
    08.00 GR 5856    
    08.23   Dived for submerged attack.  
    09.02 NNW 4, Sea 3, 9/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell Shot from tube III:  
      Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = red 70°, range = 700 meters, torpedo speed = 30 knots, depth = 3.5 meters, own speed 3 knots, own course 1xx°, enemy course = 60°, running tine:  not observed.  
    09.05   Shot from tube IV:  
        Target speed = 10 knots, target angle = red 80°, range = 800 meters, torpedo speed = 30 knots, depth = 3.5 meters, own speed 3 knots, own course 1xx°, enemy course = 60°, running time = 54 seconds = 800 meters.  
        Hit forward 20 meters.  Steamer begins to sink over the forestem.  
    09.07   Fast two-engined bomber over the sinking steamer.  
    09.09 GR 5856 Steamer sunk.  It was a loaded freighter of 5500 GRT (Type "ALIPORE").  
    09.45   Surfaced.  
    09.50   Aircraft bearing 200°T, 12 nm away.  
    09.55   Crash dive for aircraft.  
    12.00 GR 5851 Day's run:  = 118 nm,  = 4.9 nm  
      φ = 34°51'S Aircraft still circles over the sinking location.  
      λ = 16°34'E    
    13.25   Veil of smoke bearing 110°T.  
    13.39 WSW 3, Sea 2, 8/10, Vis. good, medium Swell Surfaced, operated on the veil of smoke in 110°T.  
    14.25   2nd smoke cloud bearing 70°T.  
    15.14   Crash dive for aircraft bearing 330°T, 14 nm away, target angle 0°.  
    16.00 GR 5855    
    17.42   Surfaced because aircraft is now out of sight.  
    18.01   Incoming Radio Message (0946): Group "Eisbär" and "Sobe" free to maneuver in area around navel square GR 5660.  
    20.00 GR 5843                                              
           
Sun and Moon Data 08.10.42
 
- 23 -
 
           
           
           
           
    09.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GR 5871 Course 220°, intend to stay on the south-west strip, which I recognize as traffic-rich, but because of the incoming steamers somewhat more set off.  
    01.10   Outgoing Radio Message:  From "Witte":  
        1.)  Sank:  8 October 5881 "SELANDIA", course 240°, 5852 freighter 5500 GRT, course 40°.  
        2.)  Strong SW traffic to and from 5676.  Medium air, W 3, 5857.  All naval square GR.  
    04.00 GR 8134    
    07.04   Mastheads bearing 50°T, 13 nm away.  
        It is a steamer on course 260°.  
    08.00 GR 8155    
    10.14   Dived for submerged attack  
    11.54 SW 1, Sea 1, 9/10, Vis. very good, light Swell Shot from tube I:  
      Target speed = 10 knots, target angle = green 70°, range = 1000 meters, torpedo speed = 30 knots, depth = 3.5 meters, own speed 3 knots, own course 150°, enemy course = 260°, running time = 102 seconds = 1700 meters.  
        Hit = aft 30 meters, steamer sank over the stern post.  
    12.00 GR 8144 Day's run:  = 173 nm,  = 12.8 nm  
      φ = 35°56'S    
      λ = 14°58'E    
    12.04   Steamer sunk.  
    12.05   Surfaced.  It was the 6557 GRT American freighter "COLORADAN" from "Durban" for "Trinidad".  Cargo:  ore.  
    16.00 GR 8154    
    19.30   Outgoing Radio Message (1856):  From "Witte":  
        1.)  Sank:  9 October GR 8144 "COLORADAN", course 260°.  
        2.)  etc.  . . .  
    20.00 GR 8111    
                                                     
    10.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GR 8125 Course 20°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 GR 5758    
    07.19   Steamer bearing 130°T, 11 nm away, course 320°.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 09.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 10.10.42
 
- 24 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    10.10.42      
    08.00 GR 5759    
    08.16   Dived to attack submerged.  
    09.12 GR 5755 Double shot from tubes V and VI:  
      NNW 4, Sea 3, 8/10, high confused Swell Target speed = 10 knots, target angle = red 70°, range = 1500 meters, torpedo speed = 30 knots, depth = 3.5 meters, own speed 3 meters, own course 254°.  Enemy course = 320°, running time  not observed.  
        2 misses despite exact shooting data.  Unexplained.  
    10.21   Surfaced, pursued.  
        Steamer now zigzags around general course up to 180°, so that hunting on the outer curve costs much fuel, but remains unsuccessful.  
    12.00 GR 5752 Day's run:  = 155 nm,  = 6.6 nm  
      φ = 34°56'S    
      λ = 15°28'E    
      NNW 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Vis. very good, high Swell    
    14.41   Crash dive for aircraft bearing 210°, 12 nm away.  Aircraft approaches at target angle 0° from the steamer, so that working together must be suspected.  Steamer has camouflage.  
    14.45 GR 5718 3 aircraft bombs, no damage, depth = A -10 meters.  
    16.00 GR 5717    
    18.07   Surfaced.  
    20.00 GR 5773    
                                                     
    11.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GR 5788 Course 130°, 6 knots.  Intention:  Determine the traffic on Route R 6.  
    04.00 GR 8262    
    06.07   In the morning twilight 2 destroyers bearing 110°T, target angle 0°, high speed.  Attempt to move off at AK is hopeless, because both destroyers quickly come closer.  
    06.23 GR 8248 Crash dive.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 10.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 11.10.42
 
- 25 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    11.10.42      
    07.00   From 07.00 to 11.00 hours listening and Asdic pursuit.  No depth charges.  Good listening conditions.  Average depth:  A + 80 meters.  
    08.00 GR 8139    
    12.00 GR 8215 Day's run:  = 106 nm,  = 18.5 nm  
      φ = 35°34'S    
      λ = 16°16'E    
      SW 5, Sea 4, 8/10, Vis. medium, medium Swell    
    12.19   Surfaced.  
    14.14   Dived for all around listening due to bad visibility.  
    15.44   Surfaced.  
    16.00 GR 8314    
    20.00 GR 8268 "Emmerman's" sinking of the "ORCADES" was to blame for the sudden 180° zigzag of the steamer, the aircraft and also the two destroyers heading for the sinking location at highest speed.  
                                                     
    12.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GR 8613 Course 120°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 GR 8634    
    08.00 GR 9417    
    12.00 GR 0485 Day's run:  = 134 nm,  = 6.4 nm  
      φ = 37°04'S    
      λ = 19°02'E    
      W 5, Sea 4, 9/10, Vis. medium, medium Swell    
    16.00 GR 9464    
    20.00 GR 9432    
                                                     
    13.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GR 9412 Course 270°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 GR 9414    
    05.31   Steamer bearing 180°T, 12 nm away, course 180°.  
    08.00 GR 8667    
    12.00 GR 8969 Day's run:  = 210 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 37°47'S    
      λ = 18°27'E    
      W 6, Sea 5, 9/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 11.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 12.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 13.10.42
 
- 26 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    13.10.42      
    12.53   Dived for submerged attack.  Wind shifts to the NW and up to a storm.  Very difficult approach, boat can barely be held at HF.  
    13.37 NW 7, Sea 6, long Swell Shot from tube IV:  
        Target speed = 10 knots, target angle = green 70°, range = 600 meters, depth = 4 meters, own course 22°, enemy course 160°, running time = 35 seconds = 550 meters.   
        Hit center.  Steamer stops, however does not sink.  Points stern cannon at periscope. Due to the danger of broaching must remain over 1000 meters away for a coup de grâce.  
    13.55   Coup de grâce from tube I:  
        Eto with depth = 4 meters, target speed = 2 knots, range = 1000 meters went past ahead.  
    14.05   Coup de grâce from tube III:  
        Eto with depth = 4 meters, target speed = 3 meters, range = 800 meters.  Miss  
    14.08   Coup de grâce from tube II:  
        Eto with depth = 3 meters, target speed = 1 knot, range = 800 meters.  Hit forward 10 meters.  
        Steamer has 5° list, however does not sink deeper.  
    14.46   Coup de grâce from tube V:  
        Eto with target speed = 1 knot, range = 400 meters.  Hit: forward 30 meters.  Steamer now begins to sink quickly over the forestem.  
    14.47 GR 8996 Steamer sunk.  It was the 10133 GRT British freighter "EMPIRE NOMAD", constructed 1941, "Liberty-type".  Cargo: ore.  
        Armament:  12 cm stern cannon, forward of that one quad machine gum, on bridge platforms twin 2 cm, bow protection gear ready to deploy.  
        Details:  Capped masts, mast lookout position, small low smoke stack, low bridge.  
    14.50   Surfaced.  
    16.00 JJ 1233    
      NW 8, Sea 6, overcast, rain squalls, high Swell    
    20.00 JJ 1248    
      Northwest hurricane    
                                                     
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 13.10.42
 
- 27 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    13.10.42      
    22.07   Outgoing Radio Message (1926):  From "Witte":  
        1.)  Sank:  13 October:  13 October GR 8996 British "EMPIRE NOMAD" 10000 GRT, newly constructed 1941, course 180°.  
        2.)  Seen:  21 September FU 4111 freighter course 180°, 2 October GQ 6292 freighter course 110°, 11 October GR 8248 2 destroyers course 280°.  
        3.)  2 - 8 torpedoes, 182 cbm.  Northwest hurricane.  JJ 1247.  All naval squares.  
    22.26 NW 12, Sea 8, 6/10 Dived to proceed submerged, no weapons use possible.  
                                                     
    14.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 JJ 1511 Course 270°, 1.6 knots.  Intention:  Download torpedoes when weather improves.  
    04.00 JJ 1433    
    08.00 JJ 1432    
    11.11   Surfaced.  
    12.00 JJ 1434 Day's run:  = 98 nm,  = 33 nm  
      φ = 39°08'S    
      λ = 18°10'E    
      WSW 7, Sea 7, 6/10, high Swell    
    16.00 JJ 1413    
    20.00 JJ 1412    
      W 9, Sea 8, rain, very high Swell    
    20.06   Dived to proceed submerged.  
                                                     
    15.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 JJ 1411 Course 270°, 1.6 knots.  
    04.00 GZ 3633    
    08.00 GZ 3632    
    12.00 GZ 3631 Day's run:  = 35 nm,  = 50 nm  
      φ = 39°05'S    
      λ = 16°49'E    
    12.51   Surfaced.  
    16.00 GZ 3348    
    20.00 GZ 3267                                              
           
Sun and Moon Data 13.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 14.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 15.10.42
 
- 28 -
 
           
           
           
           
    16.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GZ 3257 Course 260°, 5 knots.  
    04.00 GZ 3271    
    08.00 GZ 3159    
    12.00 GZ 3415 Day's run:  = 115 nm,  = 1.6 nm  
      φ = 39°10'S    
      λ = 13°55'E    
      S 2-3, Sea 2, 8/10, Vis. very good, high long Swell    
    16.00 GZ 2635    
    20.00 GZ 2376    
                                                     
    17.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GZ 2531 Course 270°, 5 knots.  
    04.00 GZ 2278    
    08.00 GZ 2432    
    12.00 GZ 2413 Day's run:  = 118 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 39°00'S    
      λ = 10°30'E    
      NNW 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 GZ 1398    
    17.30   Began torpedo download.  
    20.00 GZ 1633    
      WNW 3, Sea 2, 2/10, medium Swell, Vis. good    
    21.30   Downloading ended.  
                                                     
    18.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GZ 1399 Course 0°, 5 knots.  Intention:  Transit to the north there Doctor's assistance requested for Mtr.Ob.Gfr. Irmschler who has had a non-healing severe inflammation for three weeks.  
    04.00 GZ 1336    
    08.00 GQ 9899    
    11.00 - 11.30   Test dive.  
    11.49   Received orders, that the boat should report new findings and/or successes.  
    12.00 GZ 9838 Day's run:  = 112 nm,  = 1.2 nm  
      φ = 37°30'S    
      λ = 9°50'E    
      NW 2, Sea 2, 9/10, Vis. very good, long Swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 17.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 18.10.42
 
- 29 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    18.10.42      
    16.00 GQ 9592    
    20.00 GQ 9532    
    21.39   Outgoing Radio Message (1802):  From "Witte":  
        1.)  Since 13 October nothing seen.  
        2.)  To Radio Message Serial No. 436 of 13 October:  weather must mean:  "northwest hurricane".  
        3.)  Mtr.Ob.Gefr. Irmschler severe inflammation for three weeks.  Syphilis suspected.  Request transfer to Doctor boat.  
        4.)  Downloaded, 173 cbm, high pressure weather, naval square GQ 9537.  
                                                     
    19.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GQ 9269 Course 320°, 7.5 knots.  Remained in area GQ due to weather and suspected speedy transfer of patient.  
    04.00 GQ 9252    
    08.00 GQ 6878    
    12.00 GQ 6766 Day's run:  = 180 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 35°00'S    
      λ = 8°50'E    
      NNW 2, Sea 1, 8/10, Vis. very good, long Swell    
    14.02   Incoming Radio Message:  "Ibbeken" suggest meeting point with "Witte" for Doctor treatment.  
    16.00 GQ 6468    
    17.16 - 17.32   Test dive.  
    18.44   Incoming Officer-Only Radio Message concerning Cape Town Trinidad traffic.  
    20.00 GQ 6453    
    21.24   Incoming Radio Message (2030):  From "Ibbeken" and "Witte":  Suggest meeting point 22 October 15.00 hours naval square GQ 6834.  
                                                     
    20.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GQ 6185 Course 0°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 6128    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 18.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 19.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 20.10.42
 
- 30 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    20.10.42      
    08.00 GQ 3786    
    12.00 GQ 3753 Day's run:  = 168 nm,  = 0.8 nm  
      φ = 32°10'S Due to the hight Swell limited weapons use.  
      λ = 8°28'E    
      S 6, Sea 5, 4/10, Vis. very good, high Swell    
    16.00 GQ 3791    
    19.06   Incoming Radio Message concerning extension of Operations area up to KP 53 for Cape Town boats.  
    20.00 GQ 3798    
                                                     
    21.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GQ 6133 Course 155°, 4 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 6218    
    08.00 GQ 6245    
    12.00 GQ 6276 Day's run:  = 88 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 33°29'S    
      λ = 9°12'E    
      S 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 GQ 6524    
    20.00 GQ 6558 According the reports from all boats the traffic seems to be stopped at the moment.  
                                                     
    22.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GQ 6585 Course 160°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 6837    
    08.00 GQ 9237    
    12.00 GQ 5858 Day's run:  = 198 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 35°05'S    
      λ = 9°35'E    
      W 4, Sea 3, 8/10, Vis. very good, long Swell    
    14.30   Positioned at meeting point -- alone!  
    14.48 - 15.09   Test dive, no listening results.  
    16.00 GQ 6834 Positioned at meeting point back and forth on N-S courses.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 20.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 21.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 22.10.42
 
- 31 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    22.10.42      
    20.00 GQ 6834    
                                                     
    23.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GQ 6834 Course 0° and 180°, 5 knots.  
    03.28   Sent Short Signal:  To meet send bearing signals in accordance with Kriegsmarine Orders from 07.00 hours.   
    03.29   From Control Station:  "eb".  
    03.31   From Control Station:  "sk"  Incomprehensible!  
    04.00 GQ 6834    
    06.07   New attempt to send Short Signal.  
    06.10   From Control Station:  "eb"  
    06.12   Short Signal was repeated garbled, despite good reported Volume.  
    06.53   Believe that sending a Radio Message is necessary under the circumstances.  
        Outgoing Radio Message (0606):   From "Witte" to "Ibbeken":  Request bearing signals in accordance with Kriegsmarine Orders.  
    08.00 GQ 6834    
    09.12   Garbled Radio Message (18 Groups) received, the last groups give:  . . . transmitter out of service, bearing signals from there.  
        This can only be from "Ibbeken".  
    09.50   Began to send bearing signals.  
    12.00 GQ 6582 Day's run:  = 150 nm,  = 1 nm  
      φ = 34°16'S    
      λ = 9°32'E    
      W 2, Sea 2, overcast (rain), Vis. moderate, high Swell    
    13.20   Last bearing signals because so far unsuccessful.  Intend to send again from 16.00 hours.  
    16.00 GQ 6582 Sending bearing signals again.  
      Rain, barometer falling    
    16.27   "Ibbeken" requested bearing signals.  Must now assume that bearing signals were not heard.  
    17.57   Incoming Radio Message concerning award of the Knight's Cross to the Kommandant.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 22.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 23.10.42
 
- 32 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    23.10.42      
    18.05   From "Ibbeken":  Steer 205°.  
        At last something seems to happen!  
    18.13   U-178 in sight.  
    18.45 -      
    20.00 GQ 6833 Gave patient and bread.  Doctor examination shows that "Irmschler" must be transferred to U-178.  
      NE 5, Sea 4, 8/10, high Swell  
    20.15   U-178 out of sight.  Intend advance to the south because I suspect that at the moment Cape Town is bypassed as far as possible to the south.  Focal point:  intersect point course "EMPIRE NOMAD" with "EMPIRE JAGUAR".  
    20.52 - 23.59   Test dive and short reprieve for the bridge watch.  
                                                     
    24.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GQ 6913 Course 180°, 5 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 6943    
    08.00 GQ 6978    
    12.00 GQ 9518 Day's run:  = 116 nm,  = 6.2 nm  
      φ = 35°40'S    
      λ = 10°20'E    
      SSE 8, Sea 7, 9/10, Vis. good, high Swell    
    16.00 GQ 9346    
    20.00 GQ 9533    
                                                     
    25.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GQ 9616 Course 110°, 5.5 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 9629    
    08.00 GR 7442    
    12.00 GR 7455 Day's run:  = 135 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 36°49'S    
      λ = 11°50'E    
      S 3, Sea 2, 2/10, Vis. very good, high Swell    
    16.00 GR 7468    
    20.00 GR 7572                                              
           
Sun and Moon Data 23.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 24.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 25.10.42
 
- 33 -
 
           
           
           
           
    26.10.42      
    00.00 GR 7587 Course 115°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 GR 7831    
    08.00 GR 7919    
    12.00 GR 7989 Day's run:  = 145 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 38°02'S    
      λ = 14°26'E    
      WNW 2, Sea 1, 6/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    14.30   Incoming Officer-Only Radio Message concerning Cape Town - Trinidad traffic.  
    15.48   Incoming Radio Message (1415):  To boats off GR:  
        1.)  As can be seen from position reports, boats are operating relatively far from the focal point.  With waning moon again go close off the focal point.  Traffic will begin again.  See Officer-Only.  Attention is drawn to reporting traffic immediately.  
        2.)  For "Poske" and "Witte" supply of 30-40 cbm is anticipated if necessary in area DS.  Free to go in the entire area of KY.  
        3.)  Do your best.  All naval squares.  
        Traffic is stopped or rerouted and the overall weather conditions are brutal.  Storms moderate visibility and moon simply prevent any further approach to the  focal point - that is the current situation!!  
    16.00 GZ 3211    
    19.25 - 19.38   Test dive.  
    20.00 GZ 3222    
                                                     
    27.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GZ 3317 Course 110°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 GZ 3356    
    08.00 JJ 1147    
    12.00 JJ 1145 Day's run:  = 148 nm,  = 0.6 nm  
      φ = 38°34'S    
      λ = 17°32'E    
      NNW 10, Sea 8, rain, Vis, changing, high Swell    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 27.10.42
 
- 34 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    27.10.42      
    16.00 JJ 1182    
    20.00 JJ 1277    
                                                     
    28.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 JJ 1285 Course 80°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 JJ 1296    
    08.00 JJ 1358    
    12.00 JJ 1369 Day's run:  = 145 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 38°39'S    
      λ = 20°47'E    
      W 9, Sea 8, 7/10, rain, Vis. good, squalls, high Swell    
    16.00 JJ 2119    
    20.00 JJ 2143    
    22.12   Incoming Radio Message (2129):  U-159 short situation report.  
                                                     
    29.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 JJ 2186 Course 50°, 6 knots.  
    00.38   Outgoing Radio Message (2255):  from "Witte":  
        1.)  Since 18 from GQ 60 to JJ 21 nothing seen.  
        2.)  23 bread and patient transfer completed.  
        3.)  Intention:  Advance to KZ 41, with new moon to GR 57.  
        4.)  Since 13 north and southwest storms, rain squalls, high Swell.  
        5.)  146 cbm, SW 9, JJ 2143, naval squares.  
    04.00 JJ 2135    
    05.20   Steamer bearing 140°T, 13 nm away, course 220°.  So my suspicion that Cape Town traffic has moved off far to the south is confirmed  
    08.00 JJ 2165    
    09.25   Smoke veil bearing 170°T, over 20 nm away.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 27.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 28.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 29.10.42
 
- 35 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    29.10.42      
    11.53   Dived for submerged attack at target angle 20°, because the second steamer already has the superstructure out.  Closed at GF.  
    12.00 JJ 2426 Day's run:  = 165 nm,  = 1.6 nm  
      φ = 39°07'S Due to the bad weather maneuvering ahead was only possible at HF, also depth control was close to the limits of performance.  However wind and swell are abating so that there is hope of hunting the second steamer after handling the first.  
      λ = 21°38'E  
      SSW 6, Sea 5, overcast, Vis. very good, high Swell  
    12.27   Shot from tube III:  
        Target speed = 8 knots, target angle = green 70°, range = 800 meters, torpedo speed 40 knots, depth 4 meters, own speed 4 knots, own course 89.  Enemy course = 220°, running time = 60 seconds - 1250 meters.  
        Hit center, only part of the crew gets off, steamer remains on an even keel.  
    12.42   Coup de grâce from tube V:  
        Target speed = 1 knots, target angle = green 100°, range = 800 meters, torpedo speed 40 knots, depth 4 meters, own speed 4 knots, own course 21°, running time = 40 seconds - 840 meters.  
        Hit:  forward 20 meters, foreship breaks off at the bridge and sinks.  After ship continues to float on a even keel.  
        Because the next steamer forces, I must still sacrifice a third torpedo.  
    12.46   Surfaced.  Cannon still manned [on the steamer], therefore coup de grâce .  
    13.06   Dived for 2nd coup de grâce.  
    13.32   Coup de grâce from tube IV:  
        Target speed = 0 knots, range = 400 meters, torpedo speed 40 knots, depth 3 meters, running time = 33 seconds - 680 meters.  Hit center, enormous hole above the water surface, so the torpedo must have steered high in the swell.  
    13.43   Steamer sunk.  It was the 4978 GRT British M.V. ROSS from "New Castle" from "Port Elizabeth" for "Trinidad", cargo:  ore.  
    13.44 SW 5, Sea 4, medium Swell Surfaced and pursued in 150°T still just visible smoke cloud.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 29.10.42
 
- 36 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    29.10.42      
    16.00 JJ 2467    
    16.45   2nd smoke cloud bearing 210°T, over 20 nm away.   
        Compensation for the last weeks. However I remained with the 1st smoke cloud:  Stay consistent!  
    17.40   Steamer comes in sight again.  
    20.00 JJ 2765    
    21.18 W 4-5, Sea 4, 4/10, clear night, marine phosphorescence Shot from tube I:  
      Target speed = 10 knots, target angle = green 70°, range = 1000 meters, torpedo speed = 40 knots, depth = 4 meters, own speed = 7 knots, own course 76°, enemy course = 180°, running time = 92 seconds = 1900 meters.  Fixed angle 0°, because the transmitting system in the UZO failed.  
        Hit:  forward 50 meters.  Steamer transmits, it is the 7327 British "LAPLACE" from "Liverpool".  Steamer lay forward somewhat deeper, however does not sink.  
    21.55   Due to the good visibility conditions I cannot get closer than 2000 meters for the coup de grâce.  
        Coup de grâce from tube II:  
        Target speed = 2 knots, target angle = green 70, range = 2000 meters, torpedo speed 40 meters, depth 4 meters, own speed 7.36, running time:  not observed  miss.  
    22.07   2nd Coup de grâce from tube III:  
        Target speed = 2 knots, torpedo speed 40 knots, depth = 4 meters, running time:  110 seconds - 2200 meters.  
        Hit center, steamer sinks over the forestem.  
    22.14 JJ 2795 Steamer sunk.  
        With the sinking of the steamer the good weather has also passed, wind and Sea State increase again to storm strength.  
                                                     
    30.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 JJ 2765 Course 0°, 6 knots.  
        Intention:  Run back north to the sighting location and then back and forth for 2 days on east west courses in this area.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 29.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 30.10.42
 
- 37 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    30.10.42      
    00.46   Outgoing Radio Message (2337):  From "Witte":  
        1.)  Sank:  29 October 2511 "ROSS", course 220°, 2795 "LAPLACE", course 180°.  
        2.)  Heating and continuous ventilation worked well.  
        3.)  138 cbm, 4 torpedoes.  SW 7, 1022 mb, 2765 all naval square JJ.  
    04.00 JJ 2498    
    08.00 JJ 2519    
    12.00 JJ 2249 Day's run:  = 242 nm,  = 4.8 nm  
      φ = 38°38'S    
      λ = 22°30'E    
      SW 5, Sea 5, 7/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    16.00 JJ 2213    
    20.00 JJ 2212    
                                                     
    31.10.42 Operations area    
    00.00 JJ 2132 Course 270°, 5 knots.  
    04.00 JJ 2122    
    08.00 JJ 2129    
    12.00 JJ 2137 Day's run:  = 123 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 38°24'S    
      λ = 21°51'E    
      W 8, Sea 7, 6/10, Vis, very good, medium Swell    
    16.00 JJ 2217    
    17.56 - 18.20   Test dive.  
    20.00 JJ 2223    
                                                     
    01.11.42 Operations area    
    00.00 KY 9449 Course 50°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 KY 9453    
    08.00 KY 9197    
    12.00 KY 9252 Day's run:  = 168 nm,  = 1.2 nm  
      φ = 36°47'S Aircraft bearing 80°T, 13 nm away, course 0°.  
      λ = 24°43'E    
      W 3, Sea 2, 6/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 31.10.42
Sun and Moon Data 01.11.42
 
- 38 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    01.11.42      
    15.25   Steamer bearing 150°T, 12 nm away, course 330°.  
        The steamer quickly comes out of the misty horizon at target angle 0°, I decide to dive immediately for submerged attack.   
    15.39   Dived for submerged attack  
    16.00 KY 9261    
    16.10 W 3, Sea 2, long Swell Fan from tube II and IV:  
        Target speed = 12 knots, target angle = green 90, range = 1000 meters, torpedo speed = 40 knots, depth = 4 meters, own course 211°.  Spread angle:  6°, enemy course 330°.  
        Miss, probably too little target speed, as we subsequently found out during the unsuccessful pursuit.  
        It was a modern passenger freighter of about 8000 GRT.  
    16.24   Strong under water detonation, the same phenomena as with the detonation a "PANAMA" - very disruptive for unnoticed pursuit.  
    16.50   Surfaced, pursued.  
    17.16   Hunt broken off due to too high enemy speed.  Mastheads out of sight.  
    20.00 KY 6978    
                                                     
    02.11.42 Operations area    
    00.00 KY 6953 Course 60°, 7 knots.  
        Intention:  Remain in this area only one day afterwards return transit.  
    03.00   Clocks set back one hour to new D.G.Z.  
    04.00 KZ 4717    
    04.35 Misty Crash dive for aircraft bearing 20°T, 4 nm away, course 180.  
    06.16   Surfaced.  
    08.00 KZ 4727    
    09.29   Crash dive for aircraft bearing 10°T, 13 nm away, course 160°.  
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 01.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 02.11.42
 
- 39 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    02.11.42      
    09.57   Surfaced.  
    12.00 KZ 4765 Day's run:  = 163 nm,  = 8.3 nm  
      φ = 35°51'S    
      λ = 27°31'E    
      SE 1, Sea 0, 8/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    12.30   Crash dive for aircraft bearing 220°T, 13 nm away, course 40°.  
    12.58   Surfaced.  
    16.00 KZ 4874    
    20.00 KZ 7228    
                                                     
    03.11.42 Operations area    
    00.00 KZ 7258 Course 200°, 6 knots.  Return transit.  
    04.00 KZ 7521    
    08.00 KZ 7546    
    12.00 KZ 7577 Day's run:  = 153 nm,  = 1.2 nm  
      φ = 38°07'S    
      λ = 27°49'E    
      WSW 4, Sea 3, 7/10, Vis. very good, high Swell    
    16.00 KZ 7723    
    20.00 KY 9963    
                                                     
    04.11.42 Operations area    
    00.00 KY 9954 Course 260, 7 knots.  
    00.29   Outgoing Radio Message (2015):  From "Witte":  
        1.)  1 November KY 9261 two miss on passenger freighter, course 330°, 16 knots.  
        2.)  KY 92 to KZ 47 heavy air.  
        3.)  One Ato limitedly operable, one Eto.  126 cbm, SW 4, KY 9937, naval square, return transit.  
    04.00 KY 9845    
    08.00 JJ 2369    
    12.00 JJ 2392 Day's run:  = 174 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 38°48'S    
      λ = 24°14'E    
      ESE 4, Sea 3, 4/10, Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 JJ 2384    
    16.53 - 17.08   Test dive.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 02.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 03.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 04.11.42
 
- 40 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    04.11.42      
    18.15   Smoke veil bearing 180°, about 20 nm away.  Despite hunting at AK, listening and presumed intercept course not found.  
    20.00 JJ 2538    
      E 2, Sea 1, overcast (rain), Vis. bad, strong marine phosphorescence    
    20.35 - 21.14   Dived for all around listening.  
                                                     
    05.11.42 Operations area    
    00.00 JJ 2618 Course 260°, 11 knots.  
    04.00 JJ 2451    
    08.00 JJ 1669    
    12.00 JJ 1388 Day's run:  = 190 nm,  = 2.2 nm  
      φ = 38°58'S    
      λ = 20°16'E    
      SSE 7, Sea 6, 6/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    16.00 JJ 1379    
    20.00 JJ 1376    
                                                     
    06.11.42 Operations area    
    00.00 JJ 1269 Course 270°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 JJ 1249    
    08.00 JJ 1159    
    12.00 GZ 3633 Day's run:  = 148 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 39°05'S    
      λ = 17°10'E    
      WNW 3, Sea 2, 5/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    15.15 - 15.55   Test dive.  
    16.00 GZ 3358    
    20.00 GZ 3347    
                                                     
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 04.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 05.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 06.11.42
 
- 41 -
 
           
           
           
           
    07.11.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GZ 3255 Course 290°, 6.5 knots.  
    04.00 GZ 3218    
    08.00 GZ 3132    
    12.00 GZ 7972 Day's run:  = 158 nm,  = 1.6 nm  
      φ = 37°52'S    
      λ = 13°54'E    
      SW 6, Sea 5, 4/10, Vis. good, high Swell    
    16.00 GR 7867    
    17.50   Smoke veil bearing 280°, 16 nm away.  It is a large steamer on course 60°.  By the favorable horizon I can close before darkness.  Intend stern approach, because the Ato is only limitedly operable.  
    20.00 GR 7837    
    21.19   Shot from tube VI:  
        Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = green 70°, range = 1200 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, depth = 4 meters, own speed 5 knots, own course 120°.  Enemy course = 45°, running time: not observed.  
        Unexplained miss, however must be attributed to torpedo failure because shooting data was exact.  
        Maneuvered ahead again, speed match exactly again, intend to get closer to shoot the sluggish and blowing Ato.  
    22.50 GR 7599 Shot from tube III:  
      SW 5, Sea 5, Vis. good, long Swell, marine phosphorescence Target speed = 10.5 knots, target angle = green 50°, range = 500 meters, torpedo speed 40, depth = 4 meters, own speed = 9 knots, own course 280°.  
        Fixed angle initially 348°, shortly before the shot due to the fast shift of the target reset to 0°.  Enemy course = 45°, running time:  30 seconds.  Ammunition steamer, atomized at the hit aft 20 meters.  A flame column hundreds of meters high.  For a minute it hails explosion debris on the boat, 3 men of the bridge watch are lightly wounded (Kommandant:  bruise and wound in the left hip, First Watch Officer and port aft lookout: puncture in the head.).  
        Over deck damage was light and was corrected quickly, except for the failure of the listening gear to starboard.  On the whole good luck!!  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 07.11.42
 
- 42 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    07.11.42      
        Steamer had an estimated size of 8500 GRT and similar to type "UMTALI".  
                                                     
    08.11.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GR 7597 Course 270°, 12 knots.  
        Intention:  Transit on the Great Circle to DS.  Total success up to now 51277 GRT, however we still have shells!  
        The action and success of the last lame 1937's Atos (from "Wilamowitz") was an excellent finish to our operation in the "Eisbären" operations area.  
    04.00 GR 7492    
    07.40 GR 7447 Steamer bearing 210°T, 12 nm away, course 50°.  
    08.00 GR 7447    
    12.00 GR 9394 Day's run:  = 237 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 36°15'S    
      λ = 10°52'E    
      SE 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    15.00 - 16.10 GQ 9358 Test dive.  
    20.00 GQ 9214    
    22.10   Outgoing Radio Message (2040):  from "Witte":  
        1.)  7 November GR 7599:  8500 GRT ammunition steamer, course 45°, flew into the air 250 meters away.  Light injuries, light damage, ready for operations.  
        2.)  Seen:  8 November 7447 steamer course 50°.  
        3.)  Out of torpedoes, 110 cbm, high pressure weather, GQ 9314, naval squares.  
    23.15   Incoming Radio Message:  Return harbor is "Lorient".  
                                                     
    09.11.42 Operations area    
    00.00 GQ 6982 Course 310°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 6941    
    08.00 GQ 6831    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 07.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 08.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 09.11.42
 
- 43 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    09.11.42      
    12.00 GQ 6588 Day's run:  = 164 nm,  = 2.2 nm  
      φ = 34°25'S    
      λ = 9°32'E    
      NNW 4, Sea 3, 7/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    16.00 GQ 6598    
    20.00 GQ 6439    
                                                     
    10.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GQ 61 Course 310°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 61    
    08.00 GQ 53    
    12.00 GQ 29 Day's run:  = 173 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 32°28'S    
      λ = 7°01'E    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    13.00   Shot all cannons and guns.  
    16.00 GQ 29    
    18.15 - 56   Test dive.  
    20.00 GQ 29    
                                                     
    11.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GQ 26 Course 310°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 GQ 25    
    08.00 GQ 22    
    12.00 GQ 21 Day's run:  = 186 nm,  = 1.6 nm  
      φ = 30°30'S    
      λ = 5°02'E    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    16.00 GQ 21    
    20.00 GG 99    
                                                     
    12.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GG 99 Course 310°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 GG 98    
    08.00 GG 95    
    12.00 GG 94 Day's run:  = 167 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 28°20'S    
      λ = 2°26'E    
      E 3, Sea 2, 6/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 09.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 10.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 11.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 12.11.42
 
- 44 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    12.11.42      
    16.00 GG 91    
    20.00 GG 83    
    21.00 - 21.43   Test dive, port negative buoyancy tanks out of service.  
    22.23 - 22.49   Repeated test dive, malfunction corrected.  
                                                     
    13.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GG 83 Course 310°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 CG 59    
    07.55   Six masted schooner bearing 40°T, 14 nm away.  
        Intend to attack with artillery by day.  
    09.05   Opened fire at range = 800 meters, foreship shot on fire.  
    09.55   Ceased fire, closed the lifeboats to determine ship's information.  
        It is the 2598 GRT American six masted schooner "STAR OF SCOTLAND", in ballast form "Cape Town" for Paraguay".  Home port "Los Angles"  At the beginning of the year left for overhaul in Cape Town, because all the American yards refused due to over crowding.  Due to over crowding duration in Cape Town: four months.  
        Ship's papers taken on board.  
        Went on board and took over very much valuable outfitting like cigarettes, fruit, orange juice, orange juice, soap and essential oils.  Afterwards sank with 10.5 cm.  
    12.00 GG 58 Day's run:  = 147 nm,  = 2.6 nm  
      φ = 26°39'S    
      λ = 0°25'E    
      E 5, Sea 5, 9/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 12.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 13.11.42
 
- 45 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    13.11.42      
    15.51 GG 5851 Sailing vessel sunk, with that total:  53875 GRT.  
    16.00 GG 58    
    20.00 GG 54    
                                                     
    14.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GG 46 Course 310°, 8 knots.  
    01.43   Outgoing Radio Message (2352):  From "Witte":  
        1.)  Sank:  GG 5851 seven masted schooner "STAR OF SCOTLAND", 2290 GRT with artillery.  From Cape Town for Paraguay.  
        2.)  95 cbm, E 5, GG 4666, naval squares.  
        (As the ship's papers show the tonnage is not 2290 but instead 2598 GRT.)  
    04.00 GG 46    
    08.00 GG 43    
    12.00 GG 42 Day's run:  = 187 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 24°48'S    
      λ = 2°12'W    
      ESE 4, Sea 3, 9/10, Vis. changing, light Swell, drizzle    
    16.00 GG 18    
    17.05 - 17.49   Test dive.  
    20.00 GG 17    
                                                     
    15.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 GG 17 Course 310°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 GF 36    
    08.00 GF 36    
    12.00 GF 35 Day's run:  = 171 nm,  = 1.8 nm  
      φ = 22°50'S    
      λ = 4°40'W    
      ESE 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    16.00 GF 32    
    18.00 - 18.21   Test dive.  
    20.00 GF 31    
                                                     
           
Sun and Moon Data 13.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 14.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 15.11.42
   
- 46 -
 
           
           
           
           
    16.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FU 87 Course 310°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 FU 87    
    08.00 FU 79    
    12.00 FU 76 Day's run:  = 184 nm,  = 0.8 nm  
      φ = 20°50'S    
      λ = 7°10'W    
      ESE 4, Sea 3, 3/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    16.00 FU 75    
    20.00 FU 75    
                                                     
    17.11.42 West of St. Helena    
    00.00 FU 71 Course 310°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 FU 71    
    08.00 FT 69    
    12.00 FT 69 Day's run:  = 188 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 18°44'S    
      λ = 9°48'W    
      ESE 3, Sea 3, 1/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    16.00 FT 68    
    20.00 FT 65    
                                                     
    18.11.42 Between St. Helena and Ascension    
    00.00 FT 65 Course 310°. 8 knots.  
    04.00 FT 61    
    08.00 FT 61    
    12.00 FT 53 Day's run:  = 185 nm,  = 0 nm  
      φ = 16°40'S    
      λ = 12°05'W    
      SE 3, Sea 2, 9/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    16.00 FT 29    
    20.00 FT 29    
                                                     
    19.11.42 The same sea area    
    00.00 FT 28 Course 310°, 8 knots  
    04.00 FT 24    
    08.00 FT 24    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 17.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 18.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 19.11.42
 
- 47 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    19.11.42      
    12.00 FT 13 Day's run:  Surfaced = 191 nm  
      φ = 14°42'S    
      λ = 14°46'W    
      ESE 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 FT 13    
    17.00 - 17.27   Test dive.  
    20.00 FT 12    
                                                     
    20.11.42 Southwest of Ascension    
    00.00 FM 78 Course 310°, 8.5 knots.  
    04.00 FM 77    
    08.00 FM 77    
    12.00 FL 96 Day's run:  Surfaced = 195 nm  
      φ = 12°35'S Day's run:  Submerged  = 0.9 nm  
      λ = 17°22'W    
      EbyS 4, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    16.00 FL 96    
    20.00 FL 92    
                                                     
    21.11.42 West of Ascension    
    00.00 FL 92 Course 310°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 FL 91    
    08.00 FL 67    
    12.00 FT 13 Day's run:  Surfaced = 184 nm  
      φ = 20°35'S    
      λ = 19°46'W    
      ENE 4, Sea 3, 9/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    16.00 FL 56    
    17.42 - 18.05   Test dive.  
    20.00 FL 56    
                                                     
    22.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FL 53 Course 335°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 FL 52    
    08.00 FL 52    
           
Sun and Moon Data 19.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 20.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 21.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 22.11.42
 
- 48 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    22.11.42      
    12.00 FL 2852    
      φ = 7°53'S    
      λ = 21°11'W    
      E 4-5, Sea 4, 9/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 FL 2587    
    19.19   Incoming Radio Message (1812):  
        The boat "U-D3" "Rigele" is positioned with torpedoes in about naval square ES 10.  Returning Eisbären that are still capable personnel and materially after torpedo and fuel supply of operating in area FC and ER, report with position, fuel and provisions inventory.  No negative notifications.  
        Material condition, as well as health and morale of the crew for 13 weeks at sea are excellent, so no issues, we will report immediately!  
    20.00 FL 2441    
    21.45   Outgoing Radio Message (2000):  From "Witte":  
        Naval square FL 2441, 71 cbm, 5 weeks.  
        (Alternate frequency 8282 kHz.)  
                                                     
    23.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FL 2198 Course 335°, 8 knots.  
    00.43   Steamer bearing 340°T, course 140°, 8000 meters away.  
        Avoided.  
    02.22   Outgoing Radio Message (0156):  From "Witte":  
        1.)  Naval square FL 2198, 70 cbm, 5 weeks.  
        2.)  Just now avoided freighter course 140°, 12 knots.  
        Radio Message (2000) was not heard, therefore Radio Message (0156) necessary.  
    08.00 FD 9787    
           
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 22.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 23.11.42
 
- 49 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    23.11.42      
    11.25   Incoming Radio Message (1035):  Contents:  
        On 26 November in naval square ES 7555 take over 12 Atos from "Rigele".  Fuel and provisions later.  Orders for attack area follow.  
    12.00 FD 9741 Day's run:  Surfaced = 182 nm  
      φ = 5°09'S    
      λ = 22°30'W    
      EbyS 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    15.28 - 16.44 FD 8695 Test dive.  
    20.00 FD 8658    
                                                     
    24.11.42 South Atlantic    
    00.00 FD 8613 Course 335°, 7.5 knots.  
    00.11   Outgoing Short Signal (as radio repeater):  
        Was attacked by a U-boat naval square ES 1221.  
                                                                      "Popp".  
    03.05   Incoming Radio Message (1507/23):  
        Attack areas:  . . . .  
                                      "Witte" naval square FC 23 and 31.  
                                                           . . . . .  
    04.00 FD 8344    
    08.00 FD 5897    
    12.00 FD 5588 Day's run:  Surfaced = 182 nm  
      φ = 2°25'S          "       Submerged = 2.4 nm  
      λ = 23°57'W    
      ESE 4, Sea 3, 6/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    16.00 FD 5546    
    20.00 FD 5274    
                                                     
    25.11.42 Equator    
    00.00 FD 5152 Course 335°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 FD 2774    
    08.00 FD 1966    
    12.00 FD 1691 Day's run:  Surfaced = 221 nm  
      φ = 0°48'N    
      λ = 25°30'W    
      SE 4, Sea 3, 4/10, Vis. good, light Swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 23.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 24.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 25.11.42
 
- 50 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    25.11.42      
    14.40 - 14.57   Test dive.  
    15.01   Steamer bearing 100°T, 12 nm away, course 310°.  
        Because shooting and artillery combat only pose a disadvantage for the other boats in this area, I hold contact for "Rigele" as an advance gist for the 12 Atos!  
    16.00 FD 1629    
    18.20   Outgoing Radio Message (1751):  for "Rigele":  
        Naval square FD 1613 freighter 305°, 9 knots.  Holding contact.       "Witte"!  
    20.00 FD 1613    
    21.41   "Rigele" reports intention to attack in ES 77.  
    22.20   Outgoing Short Signal:  
        Position of the enemy is naval square FD 1283.  
                                                              "Witte".  
        Main transmitter (KW) limitedly clear, too little transmitting energy, sent Radio Messages through radio repeater.  
                                                     
    26.11.42 North of the Equator area    
    00.00 FD 1246 Course 295°, 9 knots.  
    04.00 FD 1162    
    04.24   Outgoing Short Signal:  
        Position of the reported enemy is naval square FD 1134.  
                                                              "Witte".  
    08.00 FD 1127    
    09.24   Outgoing Short Signal:  
        Position of the enemy is naval square FC 3333.  
                                                              "Witte".  
    12.00 FD 9998 Day's run:  Surfaced = 210 nm  
      φ = 2°34'N          "       Submerged = 0.7 nm  
      λ = 28°09'W    
      SE 4-5, Sea 4, 2/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    16.00 ER 9956    
    17.40   Torpedo hit on freighter,  - - - - therefore good precision work.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 25.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 26.11.42
 
- 51 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    26.11.42      
    18.50   Steamer sinks after 2nd hit.  
    18.55   U-D3 surfaces, goes to the sinking location.  Decide with "Rigele" to shift the take over location to the north and to begin the transfer tomorrow.  Took position in his wake.  
    20.00 ER 9917    
                                                     
    27.11.42 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 ER 9676    
    04.00 ER 9624    
    08.00 ER 9355    
    09.25 SE 3, Sea 3, rain, Vis. changing bad, medium Swell Began torpedo take over.  
    12.00 ER 9355 Day's run:  Surfaced = 200 nm  
      φ = 4°40'N    
      λ = 28°30'E    
      E 4, Sea 3, rain, Vis. changing, medium Swell    
    14.00   "Schendel" in sight, comes within hailing range.  
    15.00 E 6, Sea 5-6, 9/10, Vis. changing, medium Swell, rain squall Broke off after transfer of 4 Atos due to weather.  
    16.00 ER 9345    
    20.00 ER 9262    
    21.15   "Rigele" reports transfer of 4 Atos, breaking off and torpedo inventory.  
                                                     
    28.11.42 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 ER 9139    
    04.00 ER 9126    
    08.00 ER 6778    
    09.00 ESE 3, Sea 2, 3/10, Vis. good Continued torpedo transfer.  
    12.00 ER 6752 Day's run:  Surfaced = 153 nm  
      φ = 5°39'N    
      λ = 30°14'W    
      ESE 4, Sea 3, 5/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 27.11.42
Sun and Moon Data 28.11.42

Pages 52 and 53 are missing.

 
- 54 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    03.12.42      
        2.)  Until then boats are free to maneuver.  
    16.00 FC 2381    
    20.00 FC 2357    
                                                     
    04.12.42 Operations area Intention:  Advance to the north from the old operations area in accordance with last traffic situation.  
    00.00 FC 2329    
    04.00 FC 2339    
    08.00 FC 3124    
    12.00 FC 3135 Day's run:  Surfaced = 116 nm  
      φ = 2°17'N    
      λ = 29°57'W    
      SE 3, Sea 2, 3/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    12.47 - 13.44   Test dive.  
    16.00 FC 3133 "U-176" in sight.  Because of an unclear Recognition Signal exchange I show broadside and go within hailing range.  
    20.00 ER 9799    
                                                     
    05.12.42 Operations area    
    00.00 ER 9734 Course 0°, 6 knots.  
    01.25   Outgoing Short Signal:  
        Still have 30-40 cbm fuel.   
        Still have provisions for 3 weeks.  
        Still have more than 6 torpedoes below deck.  
                                                                 U-159.  
        Short Signal was repeated by radio repeater.  
    02.48   Received contents confirmed.  
        Despite correct repetition Control confirmed the last group with "downloaded from the over deck".  
        Presume that the error will be noticed there, and therefore do not correct.  
    04.00 ER 9467    
    08.00 ER 9431    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 03.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 04.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 05.12.42
 
- 55 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    05.12.42      
    12.00 ER 9167 Day's run:  Surfaced = 142 nm  
      φ = 4°30'N          "       Submerged = 0.9 nm  
      λ = 30°00'W    
      SSE 2, Sea 2, 5/10, Vis. very good, long Swell    
    16.00 ER 9197    
    20.00 ER 9168    
                                                     
    06.12.42 Operations area    
    00.00 ER 9272 Course 135°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 ER 9521    
    08.00 ER 9561    
    12.00 ER 9672 Day's run:  Surfaced = 129 nm  
      φ = 3°32'N    
      λ = 28°44'W    
      SSE 4, Sea 3, 4/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    13.28   Incoming Radio Message (1210):  To "Stiebler"  
        Delivery of fuel and provisions to boats.  "Witte" 80 cbm, 2 weeks.  etc.  . . .  
    16.00 ER 9674    
    19.30 - 19.58   Test dive.  Flooding and draining piping for tube V broken behind the outboard flange, as a result tube V leaks.  
    20.00 ER 9564    
    21.12 - 22.28   Because it was initially thought that the outer tube door leaked, repeated the test dive.  
        Intend to repair the leaking tube the next morning through the manhole cover of main ballast tank I.  
                                                     
    07.12.42 Operations are    
    00.00 ER 9529 Course 310°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 ER 9279    
    08.00 ER 9192    
    09.05 - 11.30   Worked on main ballast tank I with the boat stopped.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 05.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 06.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 07.12.42
 
- 56 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    07.12.42      
    11.35   Work broken off because the breakage site is also not accessible with Trauchretter. Intend to plug tube V from the inside.  
    12.00 ER 9137    
      φ = 4°50'N    
      λ = 30°00'W    
      ESE 2, Sea 1, 4/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    16.00 ER 6789    
    19.45   Incoming Radio Message (1725):  
        New attack areas for supplied boats:  
                            --------  
        U-159 ER 9949, depth 40 nm.  
                            --------  
    20.00 ER 6772    
                                                     
    08.12.42 Northwest of St. Pauls Rocks    
    00.00 ER 5926 Course 300°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 ER 5677    
    06.00   Recognition Signal exchange with "U-174".  
    08.00 ER 5559    
    08.47   Recognition Signal exchange with "U-126".  Went within hailing range.  U-172 comes as well.  Proceeded together on WNW course to supply place.  
    12.00 ER 5559 Day's run:  Surfaced = 157 nm  
      φ = 6°22'N    
      λ = 32°02'W    
      SSE 1, Sea 0, 7/10, Vis. good changing, long light Swell    
    13.02   Recognition Signal exchange with "U-461", "U-161" is refueling.  
    16.00 ER 5558    
    18.40   Began taking over provisions.  
    20.00 ER 5559    
    20.45   Broke off provisions transfer, night transit.  
        Hung on to "U-461".  
                                                     
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 07.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 08.12.42
 
- 57 -
 
           
           
           
           
    09.12.42 The same sea area    
    00.00 ER 5567 Course 90°, 1.5 knots.  
    04.00 ER 5568    
    08.00 ER 5641    
    08.45 - 11.00   Remainder of provisions take over.  
    12.00 ER 5642 Day's run:  Surfaced = 41 nm  
      φ = 6°34'N    
      λ = 31°25'W    
      SE 2, Sea 1, 5/10, Vis. very good, long Swell    
    12.25   Began to take over fuel and lubricating oil.  
    16.00 ER 5651    
    16.10   Take over ended, towing connection released.  90 and 1 cbm, 4 week provisions taken over.  
        The weekly ration of the supply boats is only about half of the weekly normal outfitting.  Large amounts of soldered provisions are spoiled by seawater and fuel, jams and canned fruit fermented.  According to the degree of decay, the contents of these cans must have been spoiled for a very long time.  Half of the eggs are rotten, "Reup-bread" was good on the outside, totally moldy on the inside. For the supply of long-operating boats more fresh provisions, soap and the most important machine consumables are urgently needed.  A small Christmas for the crews on boats away for Christmas would have been very popular!  
    17.50   Began transit into the operations area.  
    18.15 - 18.37   Test dive.  
    20.00 ER 5652    
                                                     
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 09.12.42
 
- 58 -
 
           
           
           
           
    10.12.42 North of the operations area    
    00.00 ER 5932 Course 150°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 ER 6741    
    08.00 ER 6776    
    12.00 ER 9124 Day's run:  Surfaced = 124 nm  
      φ = 4°58'N          "       Submerged = 0.7 nm  
      λ = 30°20'W    
      SE 2, Sea 1, 4/10, Vis. very good    
    12.05   Incoming Radio Message (1019):  New operations area.  
        "U-159: FC 5872, depth 40 nm.  
                               --------.  
    16.00 ER 9157    
    20.00 ER 9413    
                                                     
    11.12.42 North of the Equator area    
    00.00 ER 9416 Course 200°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 ER 9448    
    08.00 ER 9711    
    12.00 ER 8965 Day's run:  Surfaced = 132 nm  
      φ = 2°52'N    
      λ = 30°48'W    
      SE 5, Sea 4, 9/10, Vis. changing, rain showers    
    16.00 ER 8995    
    16.30 - 17.06   Test dive to depth A.  
    20.00 FC 2334    
                                                     
    12.12.42 Equator area    
    00.00 FC 2359 Course 200°, 6 knots.  
    04.00 FC 2622    
    08.00 FC 2526    
    12.00 FC 2559 Day's run:  Surfaced = 136 nm  
      φ = 0°56'N          "       Submerged = 1.1 nm  
      λ = 32°00'W    
      ESE 4, Sea 3, 2/10, Vis. very good, medium Swell    
    16.00 FC 2821    
    20.00 FC 2855    
                                                     
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 10.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 11.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 12.12.42
 
- 59 -
 
           
           
           
           
    13.12.42 Operations area    
    00.00 FC 5221 Course 180°, 6 knots.  
    03.34   Steamer bearing 240°T, 6000 meters away, course 125°.  
    04.00 FC 5227    
    06.35 FC 5269 Fan from tube I, III and IV:  
      SE 3, 4/10, Sea 3, Vis. good, marine phosphorescence Target speed = 14 knots, target angle = red 90°, range = 1500 meters, torpedo speed 40 knots, depth = 4 meters, own speed = 3 knots, own course 211°, spread angle =4°, enemy course 120, f.S.= 0°, running time:  not observed.  Unexplained 3-miss, range was about 1200 meters, Torpedoes lay well (checked by bubble tracks).  Enemy speed exact.  Probably bad depth keeping.  
        Pursued despite slight speed advantage.  Due to high water temperature AK is 415 RPM.  
        And yet 3 torpedoes are too costly!  
    08.00 FC 5348    
    12.00 FC 6411 Day's run:  Surfaced = 192 nm  
      φ = 1°15'S          "       Submerged = 0 nm  
      λ = 30°42'W My diesels runs superbly despite the 16-week demand, the speed drops sharply from the growth [on the hull].  
      ESE 4, Sea 3, 4/10, Vis. good, medium Swell  
    16.00 FC 6469 Steaming on the straight course at the edge of the inner zigzags, is my only chance to gain position ahead degree by degree.  
    20.00 FC 6834 It is too bright on the surface, too dark submerged, despite this attacked submerged, because now I want to get under 1000 meters!  
    21.30   Dived for submerged attack.  Initially the enemy cannot be seen.  
    21.50   Steamer comes in sight as a faint shadow.  
    22.05 FC 6863 Shot from tube II and III:  
      ESE 4, Sea 4, 5/10, Vis. good Target speed = 13.5 knots, target angle = green 90°, range = 1000 meters, torpedo speed = 40 knots, depth = 3 meters, own speed = 3 knots, own heading 35°, enemy course 100°, running time:  57 and 64 seconds = 1200 meters.  Hit forward 30 and aft 30 meters.  
        Picked up radio message with the rod antenna, it is the 7140 GRT British "CITY OF BOMBAY".  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 13.12.42

Pages 60 and 61 are missing.

 
- 62 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    15.12.42      
    20.00 FC 3716    
    21.40   Continued transit into the operations area.  
                                                     
    16.12.42 Operations area    
    00.00 FC 2692 Course 300°, 6 knots.  
    01.40   Outgoing Radio Message (2000):  From "Witte":  
        1.)  Sank:  naval square FC 3725 "STAR OF SUEZ", course 120°, with Autos and aircraft parts from New York for Alexandria.  
        2.)  92 cbm, one Ato, stiff Trade Winds.  
        Due to an error on the boat the Radio Message was encoded using an incorrect table, was corrected by Control.  
    04.00 FC 2658    
    08.00 FC 2641    
    12.00 FC 2672    
      φ = 00°49'N    
      λ = 31°30'W    
      E 5, Sea 4, 4/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    13.50   "U-134" in sight bearing 70°T.  Recognition Signal exchange.  
    15.00   "U-134" came to opposite course.  
    16.00 FC 2913    
    17.50   Came to "swim course" west.  
    19.17   Steamer bearing 300°T, 12 nm away, course 120°, "Schendel" had bad luck again!  
    19.49   Dived for submerged attack.  
    20.00 FC 2911    
    20.39 FC 2911 Shot from tube I:  
        Target speed = 8.5 knots, target angle = green 80°, range - 1000 meters, torpedo speed = 40 knots, depth = 3 meters, own speed = 3 knots, own course 33°, enemy course = 120°, running time:  21 seconds = 430 meters.  Hit: center.  
        Steamer transmits (rod antenna!), is it the 4358 GRT British "EAST WALES".  
    20.45   Steamer sunk.  
    20.46   Surfaced.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 15.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 16.12.42
 
- 63 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    16.12.42   Cargo consists of war material of all types.   
        Itinerary:  Trinidad-Cape Town-Alexandria.  
        Armament:  stern cannon, on pedestal quad MG, behind the bridge on pedestals each one twin 2 cm.  
        The last Ato was reported not serviceable, because the head was so strongly dented, that the recess for the pistol had taken an egg shape!  By on board means from the rasp to crowbar the Ato was made ready by intensive commendable work of the torpedo personnel and helped the boat get to 70000 GRT on the 2nd patrol.  
    21.09   The days of running around under the motto: "Help Rommel" are over, because we are out of torpedoes, the boat begins the return transit.  
        Total:  11 ships of 70372 GRT.  
                                                     
    17.12.42 West of St. Pauls Rocks    
    00.00 FC 2644 Course 0°, 11 knots.  
    01.17   Outgoing Radio Message (2301):  From "Witte":  
        1)  Sank:  2911 "EAST WALES" course 120°, with war material from Trinidad to Alexandria.  
        2)  88 cbm, 2644, FC.  
        3)  Total:  70372 GRT, out of torpedoes, return transit.  
    04.00 FC 2269    
    08.00 FC 2343    
    12.00 ER 8976 Day's run:  Surfaced 153 nm  
      φ = 2°30'N                  Submerged 4.2 nm  
      λ = 31°22'W    
      ESE 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Vis. good, long Swell    
    16.00 ER 8919    
    20.00 ER 8671    
                                                     
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 17.12.42
 
- 64 -
 
           
           
           
           
    18.12.42 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 ER 8614 Course 0°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 ER 8347    
    08.00 ER 8311    
    12.00 ER 5947 Day's run:  Surfaced 176 nm  
      φ = 5°28'N                  Submerged 0 nm  
      λ = 31°34'W    
      E 4, Sea 3, overcast (rain), Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 ER 5911    
    17.15 - 17.54   Test dive.  
    20.00 ER 5647    
                                                     
    19.12.42 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 ER 5614 Course 0°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 ER 5347    
    08.00 ER 2895    
    12.00 ER 2862 Day's run:  Surfaced 174 nm  
      φ =8°22'N                  Submerged 2.1 nm  
      λ = 31°42'W    
      NNE 5, Sea 4, 4/10, Vis. good, high Swell    
    16.00 ER 2595    
    20.00 ER 2566    
                                                     
    20.12.42 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 ER 2533 Course 0°, 7.5 knots.  
    04.00 ER 2266    
    08.00 ER 2233    
    12.00 EH 8869 Day's run:  Surfaced 148 nm  
      φ =10°49'N                  Submerged 0 nm  
      λ = 31°40'W    
      NE 6, Sea 5, overcast, Vis. good, high Swell    
    16.00 EH 8836    
    18.11 - 18.37   Test dive.  
    20.00 EH 8569    
                                                     
    21.12.42      
    00.00 EH 8536 Course 0°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 EH 8269    
    08.00 EH 2233    
    12.00 EH 5869 Day's run:  Surfaced 163 nm  
      φ =13°33'N                  Submerged 1.5 nm  
      λ = 31°40'W    
      NE 5, Sea 4, 8/10, Vis. good, high Swell    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 18.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 19.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 20.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 21.12.42
 
- 65 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    21.12.42      
    16.00 EH 5836    
    20.00 EH 5596    
                                                     
    22.12.42 West of the Cape Verde Islands    
    00.00 EH 5563 Course 0°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 EH 5533    
    08.00 EH 5269    
    12.00 EH 2838 Day's run:  Surfaced 182 nm  
      φ = 16°34'N    
      λ = 32°45'W    
      NE 5, Sea 4, 6/10, Vis. good, high Swell    
    16.00 EH 2595    
    20.00 EH 2562    
                                                     
    23.12.42 Northwest of the Cape Verde Islands    
    00.00 EH 2292 Course 0°, 7 knots.  
    04.00 EH 2235    
    08.00 DS 8868    
    12.00 DS 8835 Day's run:  Surfaced 169 nm  
      φ = 19°23'N                  Submerged 0 nm  
      λ = 31°45'W    
      NE 5, Sea 4, 9/10, Vis. good, medium Swell, misty    
    16.00 DS 8564    
    16.48 - 17.06   Test dive.  
    20.00 DS 8297    
                                                     
    24.12.42 South of the Azores    
    00.00 DS 8246 Course 0°, 8 knots.  
    04.00 DS 5819    
    08.00 DS 5819    
    12.00 DS 5549 Day's run:  Surfaced 183 nm  
      φ = 22°29'N                  Submerged 1.1 nm  
      λ = 32°12'W    
      ENE 6, Sea 5, overcast, Vis. good, high Swell    
    17.30   Christmas aboard.  
    20.00 DS 5215    
                                                     
           
Sun and Moon Data 21.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 22.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 23.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 24.12.42
 
- 66 -
 
           
           
           
           
    25.12.42 South of the Azores    
    00.00 DS 2872 Course 0°, 8.5 knots.  
    04.00 DS 2812    
    08.00 DS 2542    
    12.00 DS 2275 Day's run:  Surfaced 210 nm  
      φ = 25°58'N                  Submerged 0 nm  
      λ = 32°20'W    
      ENE 5, Sea 4, 5/10, Vis. good, medium Swell    
    13.54   Incoming Radio Message (1305):  "U-159" and Rigele report position immediately.  
    16.00 DS 2217    
    20.00 DG 7892    
    20.38   Outgoing Short Signal:  My position is square DS 2210.  
                                                                         - U-159 -  
        1st Short Signal (1658) was not heard.  
        2nd Short Signal (2038) was forwarded by radio repeater.  
    22.17   Received contents confirmation with the supplement "number given not understandable".  
        The Control Station must correct their Short Signal Book according to the newest state, then it would also be known there that a three-digit number is to be automatically added to a zero.  
                                                     
    26.12.42 South of the Azores    
    00.00 DG 7833 Course 30°, 8 knots.  
    00.24   Incoming Radio Message (2331):  "Witte" suggest meeting point with "Rigele" for the purpose of taking over encoding material for January.  
        Naturally while meeting with 14 different boats I got the encoding material in time.  
    01.10   Outgoing Short Signal:  That encoding material up to February was on board.  
    04.00 DG 7646    
    08.00 DG 7388    
    10.29   Incoming Radio Message (0901):  Concerning meeting with "Folkers" for the purpose of handing over E-compressor parts and oil cleaner.  
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 25.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 26.12.42
 
- 67 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    26.12.42 DG 7359    
      φ = 28°50'N    
      λ = 31°13'W    
      ENE 5, Sea 4, 8/10, Vis. good, medium Swell, rain showers    
    12.11   Outgoing Radio Message (1121):  . . . oil cleaner can be supplied here. . .  
    13.20   Sent meeting point suggestion.  
    14.36   Outgoing Radio Message (1358):  Contents:  Meeting point DG 5816.  Etc.  . . .  
    16.00 DG 7338    
    20.00 DG 5784    
                                                     
    27.12.42 South of the Azores    
    00.00 DG 5759 Course 50°, 6.5 nm.  
    04.00 DG 5763    
    08.00 DG 5816    
    09.29 - 19.43   Test dive for all around listening.  
    12.00 DG 5824 Day's run:  Surfaced 154 nm  
      φ = 30°10'N                  Submerged 0.8 nm  
      λ = 29°06'W    
      EbyS 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good, high Swell    
    12.10   Bearing signals from "U-125".  
    12.13   Course 280°, GF.  
    13.16   "U-125" in sight, Recognition Signal letters incorrect again!  
    14.15   Gave spare parts.  
    15.40   Continued return transit.  
    16.00 DG 5537    
    20.00 DG 5537    
                                                     
    28.12.42 South of the Azores    
    00.00 DG 5283 Course 30°, 9 knots.  
    04.00 DG 5236    
    08.00 DG 2948    
    12.00 DG 2688 Day's run:  Surfaced 204 nm  
      φ = 33°00'N                  Submerged 0 nm  
      λ = 27°43'W    
      E 4, Sea 3, 9/10, Vis. good, light Swell    
    16.00 DG 2661    
    16.32 - 16.57   Test dive.  
    20.00 DG 3171    
                                                     
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 27.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 28.12.42
 
- 68 -
 
           
           
           
           
    29.12.42 St. Maria (Azores)    
    00.00 DG 3124 Course 30°, 9 knots.  
    04.00 CE 9859    
    08.00 CE 9833 Switched to "Ireland" Circuit.  
    12.00 CE 9672 Day's run:  Surfaced 201 nm  
      φ = 35°54'N                  Submerged 0.8 nm  
      λ = 25°44'W    
      EbyS 5, Sea 4, 4/10, Vis. changing, medium Swell    
    16.00 CE 9628    
    17.24 CE 9634 St. Maria in sight bearing 5°T, 25 nm away  
    20.00 CF 7274    
                                                     
    30.12.42 Northeast of the Azores    
    00.00 CF 7229 Course 55°, 11 knots.  
    01.25 - 02.22   Dived to repair the Fu.M.B.  
    04.00 CF 4977    
    08.00 CF 4956    
    12.00 CF 5716 Day's run:  Surfaced 239 nm  
      φ = 38°17'N                  Submerged 2 nm  
      λ = 21°55'W    
      NE 4, Sea 3, 7/10, Vis. very good, light Swell    
    16.00 CF 5492    
    16.58   Dived to proceed submerged (Fu.M.B. repairs).  
    20.00 CG 5545    
    21.25   Surfaced, course 55°, 14 knots.  
                                                     
    31.12.42 West of Spain    
    00.00 CF 5531 Course 55°, 14 knots.  
    04.00 CF 5355    
    08.00 CF 3787    
    09.15   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 CF 3791 Day's run:  Surfaced 203 nm  
      φ = 40°28'N                  Submerged 24 nm  
      λ = 17°53'W    
    16.00 CF 3763    
    19.26   Surfaced.  
    20.00 CF 3842    
    20.50 CF 3819 Steamer with escort vessel on SSE course, escort target angle 0°.  Escort is first seen late and  
           
Sun and Moon Data 29.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 30.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 31.12.42
 
- 69 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    31.12.42   also then only by marine phosphorescence  
    20.53   Crash dive.  Immediate Asdic.  
    21.09   8 depth charges.  Light damage, which was corrected immediately.  Flood and drain piping of tube VI outboard broken.  
    22.15   No further Asdic, escort vessel runs after his steamer at medium speed.  
        Proceeded submerged, corrected damage.  
                                                     
    01.01.43 West of Finisterre    
    00.00 CF 3828    
    04.00 CF 3826    
    04.03   Surfaced.  
    08.00 CF 3654    
    09.04   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 CF 3637 Day's run:  Surfaced 85 nm  
      φ = 41°45'N                  Submerged 55 nm  
      λ = 15°30'W    
    16.00 CF 3635    
    19.20   Surfaced.  
    20.00 CG 1177    
      NW 5, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. medium, medium Swell    
    20.20   Incoming Radio Message (1803):  Tonight report weather, tomorrow 08.00 hours switch to Coastal Circuit.  
                                                     
    02.01.43 Cape Finisterre    
    00.00 CG 1241 Course 65°, 14 knots.  
    03.48   Dived, detection was a converter in the boat.  
    04.00 BE 9978    
    04.20   Surfaced.  
    06.00   Outgoing Short Signal weather report.  
    08.00 BE 9969    
    09.07   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 BF 7746 Day's run:  Surfaced 194 nm  
      φ = 43°24'N                  Submerged 24.6 nm  
      λ = 11°06'W    
    16.00 BF 7728    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 31.12.42
Sun and Moon Data 01.01.43
Sun and Moon Data 02.01.43
 
- 70 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    02.01.43      
    18.57   Surfaced.  
    20.00 BF 7732    
    21.00 - 21.30   Dived, fuse in Metox burned through.  
                                                     
    03.01.43 Bay of Biscay    
    00.00 BF 7554 Dived to proceed submerged.  
      Marine phosphorescence    
    04.00 BF 7553    
    04.57   Surfaced, an illuminated vessels bearing 170°T, probably a Spanish destroyer, course 10°, in sea emergency service.  
    08.00 BF 7376    
    08.17   Crash dive.  Detection 170 cm horizontally polarized.  
        Proceeded submerged.  
    08.50   3 distant detonations.  
    11.49   3 distant detonations.  
    12.00 BF 7383 Day's run:  Surfaced = 84 nm  
      φ = 44°58'N                  Submerged = 59 nm  
      λ = 8°33'W    
    16.00 BF 7359    
    18.26   Surfaced.  
    20.00 BF 7344    
      NNW 3, Sea 2, 6/10, fog banks, marine phosphorescence    
    21.35   Outgoing Short Signal:  Position 36 hours off meeting point with escort.  
                                                                U-159.  
    22.26   Contents confirmed.  
                                                     
    04.01.43 Bay of Biscay    
    00.00 BF 4969 Course 55°, 14 knots.  
      Strong marine phosphorescence    
    00.59 BF 5744 Crash dive, detection 141 cm, horizontally polarized.  
    04.00 BF 5743    
    08.00 BF 5724    
    12.00 BF 5725 Day's run:  Surfaced = 91 nm  
      φ = 46°24'N                  Submerged = 43 nm  
      λ = 6°10'W    
    16.00 BF 5723    
    18.38   Surfaced.  
    20.00 BF 5493    
    21.20   Dived to proceed submerged.  
                                                     
           
Sun and Moon Data 02.01.43
Sun and Moon Data 03.01.43
Sun and Moon Data 04.01.43
 
- 71 -
 
           
           
           
           
    05.01.43 Bay of Biscay    
    09.10 Point Laterne Taken in convoy.  
    10.45 Lorient Made fast.  
           
        Total day's run:  
                                           
                                                    Kaptlt. and Kmdt.  
           
           
                                 G  e  n  e  r  a  l    I  n  f  o  r  m  a  t  i  o  n .  
                                  -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-  
           
      The condition of the boat after this especially long patrol can be described as especially good with regard to personal as well as machinery.  The health of the crew on arrival was good.  Discipline, drive and zeal were consistently good from beginning to end. Malfunctions in the engines and radio systems were so energetically eliminated, that the boat was still fully operational despite the highest demands in this regard.  The provisions of supply boats must be tested for freshness and usability before departure, since they often fail.  The need to outfit long-operating boats when supplying with soap, spare parts, consumables and more fresh provisions and fruit was pointed out in K.T.B. itself  
           
           
                                           
                                                    Kaptlt. and Kmdt.  
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 05.01.43

Enclosures to U-159's KTB - click on the text at left to proceed to the document
Chart Track chart covering entire war patrol

 
 
     
     
 
Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote
 
 

on the Kriegstagebuch of "U-159" from 14.7.42 to 5.1.43

 
     
 

                Patrol in the sea area around Cape Town offered great opportunities for success through sudden and very active appearance.  The Kommandant used these with energy, toughness and skill and achieved a considerable success.  The continuation of the operation after supply from the torpedo inventory of UD-3 (Rigele) brought further success in sea area FC.  The patrol was endured with pleasing freshness despite a very long duration, and brought the Kommandant and crew an especially noteworthy achievement.

 
     
   

For the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote

 
    - The Chief of the Operations Department -  
 
                           
     
     
     
 


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