Navigating the Enemy and Allies: Strategies of American Submarines in World War II
Sailing the high seas in the midst of World War II, American submarines faced not only the challenges posed by the enemy but also the peril of friendly fire. This article explores the ingenious tactics and measures employed by American submarine crews to prevent such unwanted attacks from occurring.
The Greatest Challenges of Friendly Fire
Throughout World War II, American submarines, as part of the greater Allied effort, occasionally found themselves in conflict with their own forces. Most notably, on the Italian campaign, the United States Navy accidentally shot down multiple C-47 transport aircraft carrying US Army paratroopers. The commanding officer of this mission, Bill Myrin, had previously flown B-24s from Biak and shared that they habitually avoided the US Navy to avoid the risk of friendly fire. This experience is a testament to the serious threat of mistaken attacks from friendly forces and serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication and identification in military operations.
Submerged Tactics for Safety
In the heat of battle, American submarine crews recognized the need to avoid surface contact whenever possible. One of the primary tactics was to remain submerged. By diving beneath the water's surface, submarines could escape the radar and visual detection of friendly aircraft and ships. This method was often employed when any form of aerial or surface activity was observed. As Bill Myrin shared, submarines utilized this approach "very sneakily" to avoid unwanted attacks from allies. Such underwater maneuvers were crucial in ensuring the safety and continued effectiveness of submarine patrols.
Deception on the Surface
Another clever strategy employed by American submarines was the temporary use of the American flag while on the surface. This tactic involved rapidly raising the flag to signal their identity to friendly forces. By doing so, submarines could communicate their status and intentions, thereby reducing the risk of being mistaken for enemy vessels. However, this approach required a balance between speed and stealth, as hasty movements could give away submarine positions, making them vulnerable to attack. Submarine crews thus had to be meticulous and well-coordinated to make this tactic work effectively.
Surface Engagement: Anti-Aircraft Guns and Ambushes
In certain situations, American submarines found themselves compelled to fight back on the surface. These instances were rare but crucial for the survival of the submarine and its crew. Surface engagements involved the use of anti-aircraft guns to defend against approaching aircraft. While these engagements posed additional risks by exposing the submarine to enemy fire, they were often necessary to protect vital operations and personnel. The decision to surface and engage was made with utmost caution, carefully weighing the risks and benefits of such actions.
The Need for Clear Communication
No matter the strategy employed, clear communication and coordinated efforts were essential to prevent friendly fire incidents. Submarine crews had to be in constant contact with their command and other nearby ships to ensure everyone was aware of their status and intentions. Effective communication, whether through radio or visual signals, played a critical role in reducing the likelihood of attacks from friendly forces.
Conclusion
The challenges faced by American submarines during World War II were numerous and complex. Through a combination of stealth, deception, and surface engagements, submarine crews navigated the dangers of both enemy and friendly forces. These strategies not only ensured the safety of their missions but also contributed to the overall success of the Allies. Understanding and documenting these tactics provides valuable insights into the broader context of naval warfare and the critical importance of clear communication in military operations.