From the Introduction: Although by far not the largest craft of the various navies a surfaced or surfacing attack submarine like this one is an awe inspiring sight. With a length of approximately 365 ft. and a width of about 40 ft. they put fear in the hearts of their enemies even or rather especially if part or all of their bulk is hidden under water. Equipped with the best weapons, electronics and defensive measures of the time boats like this have replaced any other as the supreme hunters under the waves of the oceans. Only surfaced as it is now this submarine is truly vulnerable. No wonder that its skipper will usually try to avoid coming anywhere close to the surface if it is not strictly necessary.