Type XVII

German submarine

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

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The Type XVII was a German submarine developed during World War II. These submarines were notable for their advanced Walter turbine propulsion system, which used hydrogen peroxide to generate power while submerged. This system allowed them to achieve high underwater speeds, with some models reaching over 25 knots for brief periods. However, like the Type XXI submarines, the Type XVIIs were not ready for full-scale operations before the war ended. The development of the snorkel device also significantly impacted submarine warfare during this period, allowing diesel engines to recharge batteries while at periscope depth, reducing the need to surface and increasing stealth.12

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submarine
World War II
…many delays, the first Walter-propelled Type XVII combat submarines were completed and could reach 25 knots underwater for brief periods, and a submerged run of 20 knots for 5 1/2 hours was achieved on trials. But these submarines, like the Type XXI, were not ready for full-scale operations when…
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…many delays, the first Walter-propelled Type XVII combat submarines were completed and could reach 25 knots underwater for brief periods, and a submerged run of 20 knots for 5 1/2 hours was achieved on trials. But these submarines, like the Type XXI, were not ready for full-scale operations when…
Read More