: An upgraded version with improved operating range and dive time, though still limited in firepower compared to larger ocean-going vessels. Type VII: The Workhorse of the Atlantic
The Type II U-boats were the first production submarines built for the Kriegsmarine after WWI. In SH3, they are primarily used for early-war training and coastal patrols. Type IIA and Type IID.
It’s fascinating to see how the gameplay loop changes depending on your rig. silent hunter 3 all submarines
The Type II U-boat, often called the "Canoe" due to its small size and cramped interior, was primarily used for coastal defense and training. In SH3, these boats are the starting point for early-war careers.
| Feature | Type II (Coastal) | Type VII (Medium-Range) | Type IX (Long-Range) | Type XXI (Advanced) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Training, Coastal Defense | Convoy Attack, Wolfpack Operations | Long-Range Independent Patrols | Advanced Submerged Hunter | | Torpedo Tubes | 3 Bow / 0 Aft | 4 Bow / 1 Aft | 4 Bow / 2 Aft | 6 Bow / 0 Aft | | Torpedo Load | ~6 | 11-14 | 22 | 23 | | Range | 1,600 - 5,600 mi | 6,500 - 8,700 mi | 8,400 - 23,700 mi | Extremely High | | Submerged Speed | Low (7 knots) | Moderate (~7-8 knots) | Moderate (~7-8 knots) | High (17+ knots) | | Maneuverability | Very High | High (especially VIIB) | Low (sluggish) | Moderate | | Availability | 1939 | 1939 | 1941 | Late War | | Renown Cost (approx.) | 0 - 500 | 2,000 - 4,000 | 7,500 - 10,000+ | Very High | | Strengths | Highly agile, early access | Balanced, versatile, upgradeable | Extreme range, heavy payload | Unmatched submerged performance | | Weaknesses | Very short range, weak armament | Moderate range | Poor agility, slow dive | Very late arrival, expensive | : An upgraded version with improved operating range
Most players' favorite due to its agility. It dives faster than the Type IX, making it much easier to escape aggressive destroyers. The Type VII-C
: It features a rapid-load torpedo system and a snorkel as standard equipment. In the game's historical missions, players can experience its power by attacking Allied task forces with near impunity. Steam Community Guide :: Silent Hunter 3 Basics... - Steam Community Type IIA and Type IID
The Type IX exists for distant waters . You can patrol off Nova Scotia, the Caribbean, or even West Africa. In SH3’s campaign, transferring to a IX from a VII feels like switching from a pickup truck to a freight hauler.
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Silent Hunter 3 remains the king of submarine sims, and it’s because the fleet feels so distinct. I’m currently running a challenge to command every class in the game.