Hi Patrick,

Thank you for replying to my request. Your information is fascinating. I confess to being abysmally ignorant of all matters concerning submarines of any type or vintage, but really would like to learn about the old WWII diesel boats. I've just watched the Director's Cut of 'Das Boot' and thoroughly enjoyed it.

I have so many questions I don't know where to begin, and am conscious of not taking up too much of anyone's time. I can't fine a book with what I want in it, and am trying to absorb all the info re the old boats from the net. This site is brilliant, and I'm really enjoying reading all the questions and comments from the learned ones. Even the prickly replies in the other part of the forum....

I understand what you say about the watchkeeping and the crew numbers needed...I'm just curious about the effect a total refit with modern electronic equipment and engines would have on the need for such numbers. You could even put a decent airconditioning system aboard.

I'll risk one or two questions:

Did the torpedoes have wire-guidance, or if not how were they directed?

What would you have to pay for an old diesel-electric boat in some sort of operating condition?

What is the 'zero bubble' reference? (See how ignorant I am?!)

Thanks again Patrick, and to anyone else who takes the time to assist my education....

Regards, Ian Edwards (South Fremantle, Western Australia)