[Barkhorn1x]

Originally Posted by fastfed

I keep reading on this site ,mixed reviews, that the US subs during ww2 really didn't do much,...

You trolling or what!?!?

Seriously, I am always amazed by the U-Boat centric view of so many when it comes to submarine activirty in WWII.

Here is a decent link that provides a concise overview:

http://www.valoratsea.com/subwar.htm

The overall impact that the United States Navy's submarine forces had on the outcome of the war in the Pacific is often understated. The modernization of the world's navies during the WW II era saw an incredible shift from the dependence upon the battleship towards the aircraft carrier and its' support groups. The recognition and glory which has been showered upon this formidable arm of the US Navy is, without question, certainly warranted and deserved. But to study the Pacific theater without looking closely at the battle figures compiled by the Silent Service would be a grave injustice to any student of the war and to the valiant men who unselfishly gave of themselves. Comprising less then 1.6% of all US Naval personnel in the Pacific, yet accounting for more then half of all enemy shipping sunk, the US submarine fleets were well represented in the Allied effort for achieving victory. Historians have stated that a major factor contributing to Japan's surrender was this island nation's recognition of the fact that she was unable to sustain the war effort due to the severe shortages of raw materials and basic essentials. By eliminating their ability to import vital goods and supplies, American submarines were able to do to Japan what Hitler's U-Boat force came close to doing to England.

Bottom line = the Kreigsmarine never succeded strangling England and had lost the war at sea by June of '43. The US navy sub force did strangle Japan - and could have done it much sooner if not for bad torpedoes and the over-emphasis on supporting the surface force and hunting capital ships.