Often called the conning tower, this structure provided an open bridge for commanding the submarine on the surface, as well as space for the mounting of various types of weapons and equipment.

Anti-aircraft guns are visible in the foreground and centre right. Standing vertically on the right is the submarine's Schnorkel, which allowed it to operate on its diesel engines while running below the surface, greatly extending its underwater range and helping it to avoid detection. Both were responses to the threat of Allied aircraft. Two cylinders (bottom) contained inflatable life rafts.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 20010066-043_8