Canada's Naval History

Second World War
Battle of the Atlantic - U-Boats and Convoys

The struggle between German U-Boats (submarines) and Allied convoys was the core of the battle of the Atlantic. U-Boats sought to destroy Allied merchant vessels and warships, while Allied convoys sought to transport food, supplies, weapons, and personnel across the Atlantic.

Artifact Record

Model, HMCS Swansea

HMCS Swansea, involved in the destruction of four German U-Boats (submarines) in 1944 and 1945, was one of the 67 River class frigates used by the Royal Canadian Navy.

Frigates like Swansea - larger, faster, better-armed, and better-equipped than corvettes - were highly effective warships for the Canadian navy, although they did not enter service in substantial numbers until 1944. Frigates escorted convoys or helped form escort groups seeking out German U-Boats. In a busy wartime career, Swansea helped sink U-Boats U-247, U-311, U-448, and U-845.

Model Ship, River Class Frigate
CWM 19660023-001

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