Guppy configuration

submarine design

Also known as: greater underwater propulsive power configuration(Show More)

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "Guppy configuration" refers to a specific submarine design that emerged after World War II. This design, an acronym for "greater underwater propulsive power," involved converting existing submarines to enhance their underwater capabilities.1

Key modifications included:
* Removal of deck guns
* Streamlined conning towers
* Installation of larger batteries and a snorkel system
* Reduction in torpedoes and sometimes diesel engines1

These changes resulted in increased underwater speed and endurance. While major powers transitioned to nuclear propulsion, many navies continued to utilize diesel-electric submarines based on these improved designs.1

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submarine
Postwar developments
…52 war-built submarines to the Guppy configuration (an acronym for “greater underwater propulsive power,” with the “y” added for phonetics). These submarines had their deck guns removed and streamlined conning towers fitted; larger batteries and a snorkel were installed; four torpedoes and, in some craft, one of the four diesel…
Read More
…52 war-built submarines to the Guppy configuration (an acronym for “greater underwater propulsive power,” with the “y” added for phonetics). These submarines had their deck guns removed and streamlined conning towers fitted; larger batteries and a snorkel were installed; four torpedoes and, in some craft, one of the four diesel…
Read More