German Heavy Cruisers 1939–45

An examination of one of the most successful ships used by the German Navy between 1939 and 1945, despite only five being built: the Admiral Hipper, the Blucher, The Prinz Eugen, the Seydlitz and the Lutzow. It details the design, development and operational history of these heavy cruisers.

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The development of this excellent and successful class of warship only became possible after the Anglo-German naval agreement of 1935 eased restrictions on the types of ship Germany could build; even then only five of the class were permitted: the Admiral Hipper, the Blucher, the Prinz Eugen, the Seydlitz and the Lutzow. These Cruisers were designed for Atlantic operations and had eight 8 inch guns, 12 10.5 cm heavy anti-aircraft guns and 17 smaller calibre anti aircraft guns as well as twelve torpedo tubes and their own compliment of up to six aircraft. This title covers the design, development and operational history of the Heavy Cruisers of the Admiral Hipper class.