Thanks, guys, I think I get it. I just hadn't thought of all the different scenarios in which the u-boot would have to fight off attacking aircraft before diving, if it was in fact capable of diving.
Forum: Technology and Operations

Scott, what factors would make a commander decide to fight it out on the surface? Malfunctioning equipment preventing the u-boot from diving properly? (That would make sense.) Small number of airplanes? (Even 1 airplane would be enough to report the position of the boot; I would think it would make more sense to dive and change course than to try to shoot it down.) Other factors? In ter
Forum: Technology and Operations

In what situation would anti-aircraft guns be used? Everyone seems to agree that the best defense against an attack from the air was to submerge. I don't see how the gunner could fire the guns with any accuracy in the midst of a crash dive.
Forum: Technology and Operations