U-boat Archive - U-boat KTB - U-601 6th War Patrol

U-601 - 6th War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

Departed	Date	Arrived	Date	Days at Sea
Hammerfest	31 July 1943	Hammerfest	28 August 1943	27

Click the icon to download a KMZ file displaying the U-boat track, significant events and locations for this patrol. You must have Google Earth loaded on your computer to view this file. Download Google Earth here

Ships Hit

Date

Note: The positions in the table above and in the Google Earth patrol summary are derived from the KTB and in many cases do not match those set forth in authoritative references such as Jürgen Rohwer, Axis Submarine Successes of World War Two or the Uboat.net website. The goal here is to present the picture relative to the U-boat and not the absolute position that the ship was attacked or sank.

               K r i e g s t a g e b u c h

              ========================

                                 "U 601"

Kommandant: Kapitänleutnant G r a u

               Beginning: 26   July      1943

                  Ending:    28   August 1943

1st Copy Control No. 1

2nd Copy Control No. 2

3rd Copy Control No. 3

4th Copy Control No. 4

5th Copy Control No. 5

6th Copy Control No. 6

7th Copy Control No. 7

8th Copy Control No. 8

© U-boat Archive 2024 - all rights reserved

Click the flag to view the above page from the original German KTB

- 1 -

26.07.43 Hammerfest, torpedo loading.

27.07.43 Transit to Tromsö. (in convoy)

I fly to Narvik for reporting and receive instructions for the new operation.

28.07.43 Loaded Luftwaffe gear alongside "MAX STINSKY". Flew back from Narvik.

29.07.43 Radio Message 0318/2357/766:

09.55 - Grau and Brasack -

Immediate readiness. "Brasack" for now continue on schedule.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

04.05 Radio Message 0315/0009/767:

- Grau, Hansen, Brasack, Group Monsun -

17.50 hours a formation of 1 battleship, 1 carrier, 1 heavy cruiser, 1 light cruiser and several small units, in square AF 7343, northerly course, high speed.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

03.50 Radio Message 0310/0032/768:

- F.d.U. -

Operational orders for Grau are with Adm.Po.Kü (Courier Station).

                                                      - Bugs -

05.00 Cast off from "MAX STINSKY".

In order to be ready immediately, I have to leave my berth because the water level is falling and in about 4 hours I will be stuck at my berth at low water. According to my inquiries, the Operational Orders are in Hammerfest, or on the way there by Courier.

Transit to Hammerfest in convoy.

18.40 Radio Message 1730/1532/782:

- Grau and Brasack -

Carry out plans as tasked.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

30.07.43 Took over Operational Orders and outfitted the boat, prepared for shallow water operations.

31.07.43

02.00 Cast off from "BLACK WATCH".

Task is: Reconnoiter Landing Place 3, location for deployment of weather station on the northwest coast of Nowaja-Semlja, if possible at Cape Pinegin square 3148. Afterwards ice reconnaissance and spare tanking boat for BV 138, which are tasked with reconnaissance in the Kara Sea.

02.22 Dived for trim test.

Sun and Moon Data 31.07.43

- 2 -

continued

31.07.43

02.51 Surfaced.

04.55 AC 7274 Released R-Boot escort at "SR 1".

SE 2, Sea 1, Swell, overcast, Vis. 2-3 nm, +10°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.025 [Gamma = Specific Gravity/Specific Weight, sea water typically = 1.027]

12.00 Northeast of North Cape Day's run: Surfaced 106 nm

AC 4948

S 1, Sea 1, Swell, overcast, Vis. 12 nm, +10°C, 961 mb, Gamma 1.027

18.08 AC 5712 Drifting mine.

Radio Message 1848/1759/705:

- Grau, Harms -

1.) First takeoff after Harms reports ready intended 4 August.

2.) Grau proceed to Landing Place 3 about 3 August.

3.) Harms pay close attention to camouflage.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

01.08.43

00.00 AC 5444

E 2-3, Sea 0, overcast (rain), Vis. 8 nm, +5°C, 962 mb, Gamma 1.027

12.00 AC 6124 Barents Sea Day's run: Surfaced 262 nm

N 1-2, Sea 1, 8/10, Vis. 10 nm, +5°C, 961 mb, Gamma 1.026

12.47 AC 3874 Deep dive to depth A +20 meters.

14.31 Surfaced.

02.08.43

00.00 AC 3689

Wind 0, overcast, Sea 0, Vis. 8-12 nm, +3.5°C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.026

02.10 AC 3693 Drifting mine.

12.00 AT 1319 Barents Sea Day's run: Surfaced    262 nm

Wind 0, overcast, Sea -, Vis. 8-10 nm +5°C, 956 mb, Gamma 1.026                                  Surfaced     5 nm

                                                 271 nm

19.15 Radio Message 1905/1651/773:

- Grau -

After reporting the ice limit in accordance with Operational Orders continue reporting about every 50 nm. In case if doubt give full square.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

21.45 AT 2315 Drifting mine.

Sun and Moon Data 31.07.43

Sun and Moon Data 01.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 02.08.43

- 3 -

continued

03.08.43 West of Nowaja-Semlja, Barents Sea

00.00 AT 2334

Wind 0, overcast (mist, rain), Sea 0, Vis. 6-8 nm, +3°C, 995 mb, Gamma 1.026

04.05 AT 3148 Set out the rubber boat for terrain reconnaissance.

SW 0-1, overcast (fog, rain), Sea 0, Vis. 1-5 nm, +3.5°C, 962 mb, Gamma 1.027

05.10 Launched rubber boat.

Bays at Cape Pinegin and Cape Stalin are suitable as Landing Place 3 for BV 138. Shallow beach, more protected landing place against wind and seas from 60°-300°. In the open-ended square [shaped bay] the flying boat has complete camouflage against any view from approximately 30-meter high rocks. Even direct overflights by reconnaissance aircraft would be possible. Lumber for beaching is abundant.

Cape Pinegin is very suitable for deploying a weather station, flat level, without boulders, 40 meters above sea level.

12.00 ÄF 8882 Day's run: Surfaced   220 nm

N 1, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 8-12 nm, +3°C, 950 mb, Gamma 1.026

12.52 ÄF 8858 Test dive.

13.23 Surfaced.

14.10 Radio Message 1406/1123/793:

- Harms -

4 August 04.00 hours report concerning operational possibilities in accordance with orders.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

Outgoing Radio Message 1515/798 ßß:

"Yes" 148, meeting point 3.

                                                      - Grau -

In accordance with orders it is hereby expressed, that square 3148 is suitable as place for weather station and as Landing Place 3.

18.28 ÄF 8559 At the drift ice limit.

North of Nowa-Semlja.

Outgoing Radio Message: 2308/711 ßß:

My position is square ÄF 8559. Passage hindered by drift ice fields, however possible for ships and boats.

                                                      - Grau -

04.08.43

00.00 ÄF 8531 At the ice limit.

Wind 0, overcast (fog), Sea 1, Vis. 2-4 nm, +2°C, 943 mb, Gamma 1.025

Sun and Moon Data 03.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 04.08.43

- 4 -

continued

04.08.43

01.30 ÄF 8637 Drifting mine.

04.30 Radio Message 0425/714 ßß:

Believe time point favorable for operations.

                                                      - Harms -

08.20 Radio Message 0810/0604/716:

- Harms -

Takeoff 07.00 hours. Arrival about 14.30 hours.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

12.00 ÄF 9428 At the ice limit.

Wind 0, overcast (fog), Sea 0, Vis. 4-8 nm, +1°C, 939 mb, Gamma 1.025 Day's run: Surfaced      164 nm

               Surfaced     1.25 nm

                          165.25 nm

15.32 The 3 numbers are the last numbers of the square through which the ice limit goes Outgoing Radio Message: 1532/722 ßß:

622 422.

                                                      - Grau -

Radio Message 1724/1526/726, 1737/1603/727:

- Harms -

1.) From 5 August reconnaissance 1, 2.

2.) It is important to determine first, what the ice conditions are in the operational area of the combat boats and on the eastern side of Nowaja-Semlja and what transit options there are for U-boats.

3.) Report navigable for U-boat main courses from the north of Dickson to the west and from the southwestern-most point of the contiguous ice to the north by Short Signal DVUM.

4.) Report traffic encountered at the same time by Short Signal.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

21.50 Radio Message 2139/2044/732:

1.) Grau - report ice limit up to 76°N afterwards inspection of Landing Places 1 and 2.

2.) Sickel initially occupy Herbschleb attack area. From 76°N report ice limit every 50 nm.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

05.08.43

00.00 ÄF 9643

Wind 0, overcast, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 940 mb, Gamma 1.024

12.00 ÄF 9687 At the ice limit north of Einsamkeit Island, Kara Sea.

SSW 2, 3/10, Sea 1-2, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 994 mb, Gamma 1.023 Day's run: Surfaced      140 nm

12.45 Test dive.

13.26 Surfaced.

Sun and Moon Data 04.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 05.08.43

- 5 -

continued

05.08.43

14.55 Radio Message 1441/1129/738:

- Harms -

Report smooth landing after transfer flight with Short Signal "Yes", otherwise after 14 hours by "No". Catch up for first launch. With missions from there only in special circumstances.

17.00 ÄF Broke off determining the ice limit, because SW-wind, fog, air temperature +0°C, water temperature +0.5°C, I expect ice danger and want to get clearance.

20.00 ÄF 9918

W 2, overcast (fog, rain), Sea 1, Vis. 500-600 meters, +1°C, 946 mb, Gamma 1.023

20.37 Radio Message 2028/746 ßß:

Ice limit runs from square AT 3620 in direction 175°T.

                                                      - Harms -

20.48 Outgoing Radio Message: 2048/748 ßß

573 674 935.

                                                      - Grau -

21.54 Radio Message 2343/2307/754:

1.) Sickel report position.

2.) Grau head for Landing Place 1. Report ice hindrance.

3.) Harms from 6 August reconnaissance 2, report ice limit as yesterday.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

22.04 Earlier transmitting of the Radio Message was not possible due to bad communications and so was not tried.

Radio Message 2110/2107/752 ßß:

Ice limit runs from square AT 5340 in direction 35°T.

                                                      - Harms -

06.08.43

00.00 ÄF 9861

SW 1-2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 8-12 nm, +1.5°C, 946 mb, Gamma 1.025

04.15 ÄF 9857 Drifting mine.

05.12 ÄF 9873 Drifting mine.

Radio Message 0400 ßß:

6th day of the current month. 09.00 hours 2.

                                                      - Harms -

08.30 Radio Message 0615/0041/756:

- Harms -

Report position of the last three square numbers, because the Short Signal 0407 was not completely clear. Ice situation is clear.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

Sun and Moon Data 05.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 06.08.43

- 6 -

continued

06.08.43 West of Einsamkeit Island, Kara Sea.

12.00 AS 1116 Day's run: Surfaced      130 nm

WNW 1, overcast, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 957 mb, Gamma 1.025                Surfaced     2.05 nm

                         132.05 nm

18.07 Outgoing Radio Message: 1807/775 ßß:

Passage ice free.

                                                      - Grau -

19.38 Radio Message 1926/776 ßß and 2008/779 ßß:

Ice limit runs from square XA 7470 in direction 320°T, passage not possible.

                                                      - Harms -

22.36 Radio Message 2230/1735/773 ßß:

04.00 hours my Short Signal from yesterday was confirmed incorrectly. It must mean: 08.00 hours 1.

                                                      - Harms -

07.08.43

00.00 AT 3282

Wind 0, 8/10, Sea 0, Vis. 10 nm, +5°C, 957 mb, Gamma 1.025

00.50 Saw U-Harms, he is well camouflaged.

01.20 Recognition Signals Exchanged.

02.08 Flooded down alongside Harms. Camouflaged the boat, boat lies on the bottom so that the over deck is just overspilled.

03.40 Radio Message 0323/2357/788:

- Harms -

From 7 August explore ice conditions between 76° and 77°N as far eastward as possible.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

06.58 Radio Message 0658 ßß:

7th day of the current month 10.00 hours 2.

                                                      - Harms -

12.00 AT 3278 Base 1.

NE 2-3, overcast, Sea 2, Vis. 8 nm, +5°C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.026 Day's run: Surfaced 100 nm

18.20 Blew. Transit to send Radio Message. Ice reconnaissance.

20.55 Outgoing Radio Message 2055/1924/721:

- F.d.U. -

Met Harms, reconnaissance 3. Ice from AS 2410 and AS 1390 solidifying to XA 7350 then solid. Coastal strip ice free. Prepare replacement BV. NE 3, Vis. 5 nm, fog banks.

                                                      - Grau -

Sun and Moon Data 06.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 07.08.43

- 7 -

continued

07.08.43

20.55 Ice field square AT 3284 in the process of breaking up, only still exists in a 50 nm wide strip, visibly breaking up. In 10 hours it will be gone.

08.08.43

00.00 AT 3286 Shot a polar bear. Went back to Harms.

NE 3-4, overcast, Sea 3, Vis. 12 nm, +2°C, Vis. 12 nm, +2C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.021

04.15 Radio Message 0353/0143/731:

- Harms, Grau -

1.) From 8 August reconnaissance 1. Report significant ice changes with square and main course. Relief BV was prepared.

2.) Grau in the vicinity Landing Place especially reconnoiter ice limit to the south. Relief by "U-703" (Brünner) about 18 August anticipated.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

07.00 Flooded down alongside Harms, boat set on the bottom and camouflaged.

12.00 AT 3278 Base 1.

NE 2-3, 2/10, Sea 1, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.021 at +4°C Day's run: Surfaced 60 nm

09.06.43

00.00 AT 3278

NE 2, overcast, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 10 nm, +3°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.021 at +4°C

12.00 AT 3278 Base 1.

NE 2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 10 nm, +1°C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.021 at +3.5°C Day's run: ./. nm

12.05 Blew, put to sea for square AT 3278 to carry out ice reconnaissance to the south.

16.33 Radio Message 1617/1536/765:

- Harms -

1.) Takeoff and return flight after 4th reconnaissance notify of destination and time 6 hours prior by Short Signal.

2) Takeoff approval from here by Radio Message.

3) Ready report for next BV first on orders.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

20.15 AT 3642 Test dive. Stopped at depth 20 meters. Boat does not move a meter up or down. Despite pumping 3000 liters, HF and 8° down by the stern the boat does not rise over 16.5 meters. At depth 20 meters Gamma 1.025. Surfaced. Gamma 1.016.

Sun and Moon Data 07.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 08.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 09.08.43

- 8 -

continued

09.08.43

20.45 Surfaced.

22.15 Radio Message 2200/1903/769:

Storm warning for 10 August for the exit of the White Sea and adjoining area of the Barents Sea (area 1, 8, 9, 10): Weather deteriorating, NE-Storm, Strength 9-12.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

23.45 Radio Message 2335/2312/773 ßß:

Due to bad weather conditions in my operations area no air reconnaissance possible.

                                                      - Harms -

10.08.43

00.00 AT 3677

NNE 4, overcast, Sea 3, Vis. 10 nm, +2°C, 957 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +5°C

08.00 AT 3814 Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix 354°T, 8.3 nm.

12.00 AT 3728 East of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.

N 3, 1/10, Sea 3-2, Vis. 15 nm, +5°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.013 at +6°C Day's run: Surfaced    160 nm

               Surfaced     2 nm

                         162 nm

12.58 Radio Message 1244/1014/781:

1.) "U-737" operate at the north coast of Bear Island from 10 August.

2.) From 11 August with "U-625" transit from AT 32 to AT 85 expected.

3.) Ice field lay 5 August about between AT 3620, 3980, 5340, 3510. Bypass to the west and east. Note shift due to wind.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

16.00 AT 3742 Due to the wind, the ice in the ice fields is pushed together without becoming solid. Shot a polar bear. The ice won't last long.

Outgoing Radio Message 1908/790 ßß:

Large ice fields square AT 20.

                                                      - Grau -

21.16 AT 3716 Test dive.

21.42 Surfaced.

11.08.43

00.00 AT 3465

NE 1-2, 2/10, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.018 at +4°C

Sun and Moon Data 09.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 10.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 11.08.43

- 9 -

continued

11.08.43

08.00 AT 3278 At Harms asked if there was anything new.

"No". Continued to the north. Due to the continual northeast wind I believe it is important, to check if the area to the north is ice free.

10.15 Radio Message 1052 ßß:

Due to bad weather conditions in my operations area no air reconnaissance is possible.

                                                      - Harms -

12.00 Radio Message 1139/1046/703:

Combat boats in the Kara Sea form Group "Viking".

                                                      - F.d.U. -

12.15 Radio Message 1159/1048/704:

"Viking" 11 August 5 19.00 hours MDR-5 fly from Anderma to Dikson. Call-sign aircraft commander O S I, wavelength 938 meters, call-sign of the ground station O 2 S, wavelength 76 meters.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

12.00 AT 3523 Northeast of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.

NE 3, 6/10, Sea 3, Vis. 12-15 nm, +5°C, 963 mb, Gamma 1.016 at +5°C Day's run: Surfaced    205 nm

               Surfaced     2 nm

                         207 nm

17.00 AT 3283 Drifting mine.

22.35 Radio Message 2219/2028/722:

- Harms -

Shift reconnaissance 1 as far to the southwest as possible on suspected shipping route from the Jugor and Kara Straits.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

12.08.43

00.00 AT 3259

NE 2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 5-12 nm, +1°C, Vis. 5-12 nm, +1°C, 965 mb, Gamma 1, 1.020 at +3.5°C

12.00 AT 3278 Northeast of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.

Wind 0, 6/10 (fog), Sea 1, Vis. 6-15 nm, +6°C, 967 mb, Gamma 1.016 at +5°C

12.40 Test dive.

13.15 Surfaced.

14.30 Flooded down at Harms and camouflaged.

False alarm at the base. Because of a mirage, someone mistook me for the evil enemy.

17.06 Radio Message 1706/744 ßß:

12th day of the current month 14.15 hours 1.

                                                      - Harms -

Sun and Moon Data 11.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 12.08.43

- 10 -

13.08.43

00.00 AT 2685

NNW 1, overcast (fog), Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 6-10 nm, +2°C, 968 mb, Gamma 1.020 at +4°C

00.20 Radio Message 0020/754 ßß:

West of 70°W passage ice free.

                                                      - Harms -

08.18 Radio Message 0848/ ßß:

Basis Nord 14.00 hours.

                                                      - Harms -

12.00 AT 3278 Base 1, Spery Nawolok.

E 1-2, 9/10 (snow), Sea 1, Vis. 10 nm, +2°C, 968 mb, Gamma 1.025 at +4°C Day's run: Surfaced      20 nm

               Surfaced     1.8 nm

                         21.8 nm

21.10 Blew. Put the boat into the wind and anchored because of it is freshening.

14.08.43

00.00 AT 3278 At Base 1 Sporty Nawolok.

E 2, overcast, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 967 mb, Gamma 1.024 at +4°C

08.00 Weighed anchor.

Want to inspect the ice field at AT 20 as well as Blagobjeluschja.

12.00 AT 3436 East of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.

NNE 1-2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 970 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +5°C

17.05 Radio Message 1616/1158/784:

- Harms -

Report as soon as ready at Point 1 in accordance with Serial No. 765 of 9 August.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

19.53 Dived.

[Blagopoluchiya?] In the Bay off Blagobjeluschja found radio masts and 2 houses. No vessels. Square AT 20 is ice free. A few ice bergs small size drift off the glacier and on the northern shore of the peninsula off Blagobjeluschja.

15.08.43

00.00 AT 2685

NNW 1 overcast (fog), Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 6-10 nm, +2°C, 968 mb, Gamma 1.020 at +4°C

Sun and Moon Data 13.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 14.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 15.08.43

- 11 -

continued

15.08.43

12.00 AT 2915 East of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.

NE 1-2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 15 nm, +4°C, 967 mb, Gamma 1.016 at +5.5°C Day's run: Surfaced    160 nm

               Surfaced     14 nm

                         174 nm

14.40 Radio Message 1413/1337/707 ßß:

Have begun return transit due to engine damage 13 day of the current month.

                                                      - Benker -

16.00 Radio Message 1515/1429/709:

U-625 on return transit around the north tip of Nowaja-Semlja to Andfjord.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

16.08 Outgoing Radio Message: 1608/713 ßß:

Request meeting with Benker [my position is] AT 3278.

                                                      - Grau -

16.12 [typo actually Serial No. 1600/1609/711] Radio Message 1413/1337/707 ßß:

1.) Brünner positioned about 20 August to relieve Grau at Landing Place 3. Hand over there. Brünner report arrival 24 hours prior.

2.) Grau after being relieved hand over fuel oil to Harms return transit Hammerfest Narvik.

3.) Bugs return transit Narvik via AC 4940 Andfjord.

4.) Grau and Bugs report estimated overhaul time in days before next operation by Short Signal.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

18.42 Radio Message 1822/1743/717:

1.) Benker report position Short Signal and "Yes" is meeting still possible.

2.) Meeting point Grau-Benker 20 nm northeast Serial No. 713.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

22.30 Radio Message 2225/2031/723 ßß:

"Yes" square AT 3480.

                                                      - Benker -

16.08.43

00.00 AT 3511

NE 2, 9/10, Sea 2, Vis. 12-15 nm, +4°C, 965 mb, Gamma 1.014 at +6°C

10.00 [This entire entry is not understood] Went by Harms. There was nothing. Met Benker. Took over provisions for Harms. Handed over report for F.d.U. without enclosures. A steamer will always be a steamer [sending the report by sea is reliable], sending the report by aircraft would be dicey. (Report is an attachment to the K.T.B.).

Sun and Moon Data 15.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 16.08.43

- 12 -

continued

16.08.43

12.00 AT 3285 East of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.

NE 2, 1/10, Sea 1, Vis. 15-20 nm, +6°C, 965 mb, Gamma 1.021 at +5°C Day's run: Surfaced  193 nm

14.53 Outgoing Radio Message 1453/739 ßß:

[Bogen is not understood] In the course of the next week Bogen.

                                                      - Grau -

16.10 Anchored at Harms, gave over provisions.

20.00 ENE 3, overcast, Sea 2-3, Vis. 4-6 nm Broke off giving over provisions due to weather conditions.

Weighed anchor. Shifted berth due to weather deterioration.

17.08.43

00.00 AT 3278

E 1-2, overcast, Sea 2, Swell, Vis. 16 nm, +4°C, 958 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +6°C

12.00 AT 3278 At Base I.

E 3, overcast, Sea 2-3, Vis. 12 nm, +4°C, 953.5 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +6°C Day's run: Surfaced  ./. nm

16.05 Radio Message 1547/1159/767:

17 August U-636 departed Hammerfest around Nowaj-Semlja for AS 40, U-703 to relieve U-601 as spare tanking boat, U-360 to relieve "U-387" in AB 3584.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

16.00 Radio Message 1522/1158/765:

- Group Viking -

From 17 August expect "U-639" in the Ob Estuary.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

19.45 E 5-6, overcast (rain, mist), Sea 4-5, Vis. 1-3 nm Weighed anchor due to Sea State.

Harms also weighed anchor and is very unhappy with the BV 138 to windward of me. He can't move. I put to sea because otherwise I would have to anchor on the bar, and give him more space. I can't help him. The plane holds up admirably.

18.08.43

00.00 AT 3521

SE 2, overcast (fog), Sea 2, Swell, Vis. 1 nm, +5°C, 941 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +5.5°C

Sun and Moon Data 16.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 17.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 18.08.43

- 13 -

continued

18.08.43

12.00 AT 3279 East of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.

S 2, 8/10, Sea 1-2, Vis. 15 nm, +6°C, 946 mb, Gamma 1.016 at +6°C

13.00 Anchored at U-Harms.

13.15 Radio Message 1414/1337/702:

- Harms -

Assume that after 4 missions up to now that return flight is only delayed by weather, confirm by Short Signal "Yes".

                                                      - F.d.U. -

15.15 Radio Message 1515 ßß:

"Yes".

                                                      - Harms -

16.00 Shifted anchor place closer to Harms.

Wind ------->

            Anchor

Oil and provisions offload (see list).

17.05 Radio Message 1636/1427/706:

- Kara Sea Boats -

1.) In an extension of the Operations Order for Kara Sea boats in an emergency Kmdt. LÜTZOW may also rely on mining boats after completing mining task or inaccurate emergency deployment. Order given by Short Signal.

2.) Refueling boats made available only on order by F.d.U.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

17.06 Radio Message 1706/709 ßß:

23.00 hours Basis Nord.

                                                      - Harms -

19.07 Radio Message 1848/1140/707:

1) Am missing Serial No. 745, 755.

2) Flood valves of both negative buoyancy tanks out of service. Will attempt repairs later.

3) Position square AC 5466

4) NE 3, Sea 2, 10/10, Vis. good, 999 mb.

                                                      - Brünner -

20.15 Radio Message 2003/1843/715:

- Harms -

1.) Cleared to takeoff for Billefjord 19 August 04.00 hours.

2.) After departure report time.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

20.20 Weighed anchor.

Sun and Moon Data 18.08.43

- 14 -

continued

18.08.43

Provision and oil offload ended. Reserve crew for Operation "Husar" taken on board for return to home on request of the operations leader.

Intend to go to Place 3 and possibly launch the BV 138 from there. The aircraft should take off with little fuel even in bad weather, shift to Place 3, refuel there and start the return flight from there. In addition: The fliging reserve is greater refuelling in Place 3 for the return flight home.

19.08.43

00.00 AT 3284

Wind 0, overcast (fog), Sea 0, Vis. 200 meters, +6°C, 946 mb, Gamma 1.014 at +6°C

Radio Message 0320/2128/728, 0357/2136/729:

Prohibition on use Metox, as well as Grandin, is again emphasized. To prevent improper use on all boats, remove the 2 fastening screws on the receiver housing, remove the entire high-frequency stage in the center of the receiver with tuning buttons and place under lock and key by Kommandanten.

Completion of this measure is to be recorded in the Kriegstagebuch.

04.20 Measure carried out in accordance with Serial No. 728 and 729.

12.00 AT 3113 North of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.

SE 3, overcast (fog), Sea 3, Vis. 2-5 nm, +7°C, 937 mb, Gamma 1.026 at +5°C

12.45 Radio Message 1213/1143/741

- Harms -

Takeoff report still not heard.

Free to takeoff until latest 13.00 hours, not tomorrow.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

15.00 Radio Message 1444/745 ßß:

Due to bad weather conditions in my operations area no air reconnaissance possible.

                                                      - Harms -

17.30 AT 3149 Both diesels stopped in Place 3. Off the glacier.

20.08.43

00.00 AT 3149

S 1-2, 7/10, Sea 1, Vis. 8 nm, +7.5°C, 939 mb, Gamma 1.026 at +5°C

Sun and Moon Data 18.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 19.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 20.08.43

- 15 -

continued

20.08.43

00.08 I transmitted the Short Signal as agreed with Harms.

Outgoing Radio Message 0008/752 ßß:

Weather conditions favorable at meeting point.

                                                      - Grau -

Radio Message 0400/0059/756:

- Grau -

Due to weather conditions at destination harbor still no takeoff. Permission to follow, as soon as ready.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

12.00 AT 3149 Day's run: Surfaced 30nm

Wind 0, 4/10, Sea 0, Swell, Vis. 15 nm, +8°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.025.5 at +4°C

12.35 Radio Message 1218/0908/759:

- Grau -

Clear to take off from now.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

15.05 Radio Message 1453/1407/763:

12.30 hours Basis Nord.

                                                      - Harms -

15.08 AT 3149 On reconnaissance wavelength recorded in the clear when stitched on: . . . . . coast:  be ready for sea immediately. An open text does not seem trustworthy to me. On notification of the aircraft: "SOS 6877/57 East taxiing to the coast", put to sea. Headed at highest speed to position 68777/57 East which was later corrected to 0784/67 East.

NSW 4, Sea 4, Vis. 10 nm, shimmering air

With the Sea State an aircraft cannot last long.

19.10 Radio Message 1902/1546/768:

- Harms -

Relief should take off about 09.00 hours. At 04.00 hours report operational possibility.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

22.16 Radio Message 2208/1643/770:

1.) Returning flying boat gave SOS from square 2288 about 16.00 hours SOS taxies to the coast.

2.) Hildebrandt, Brünner head there at high speed.

3.) Grau to render assistance at high speed.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

21.00 Saw a white star. Answered with white. It is U-Hildebrandt, he is also searching. We divide the area. I offer to take on the difficult navigational task myself and want to go around the island. However, he asks to do this.

Sun and Moon Data 20.08.43

- 16 -

continued

20.08.43 For this he would have to come to course 200°, but turns north and must first be called back. I gave him course instructions.

22.00 Continued search.

22.40 Red star signal answered.

22.55 BV 138 in sight. Hurray! The aircraft drifts. I go under protection and prepare to tow. In so doing the First Watch Officer Lt.z.S. Koch goes overboard three times.

21.08.43

00.00 AT 2521

SW 4, 8/10, Sea 3, WSW Swell 4, Vis. 15-20 nm, +6°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.026 at +5°C

00.22 BV in tow. Brought Oblt. Stieler on board, to discuss the situation.

00.40 2nd line to the aircraft.

I have a weight shackled on each line nevertheless, it jerks and breaks in the seas. How the plane was able to hold up for so long and how it could have landed on the water is unclear to me. My highest towing speed is one E-motor LF ahead one KF ahead. This allows me to keep the tow just in position. The seas still go over the cockpit of the aircraft. We lie off a lee shore. The wind freshens.

00.48 Radio Message 0040/2350/787:

- F.d.U. -

1.) Since 20.00 hours no trace found.

2.) At 21.30 hours Grau met.

3.) Suspect unfortunate landing in Sea State 5, because no bearings received.

4.) Nearing the coast only possible to 2 nm, so no answer to signal stars.

5.) Gave up search and continued patrol.

                                                      - Hildebrant -

00.50 Outgoing Radio Message 0050/789 ßß:

Have met seaplane. Square AT 2521.

                                                      - Grau -

Sent my signal to clarify the situation. Saving the aircraft is out of the question.

03.40 Radio Message 0117/2130/782:

Cover of canister torn. Oil lost. Inventory 780 liters. Vis. 10 nm, 1014 mb, rising.

                                                      - Harms -

Sun and Moon Data 20.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 21.08.43

- 17 -

continued

21.08.43

03.40 Radio Message 0142/0207/790 ßß:

Meet in 24 hours.

                                                      - Brünner -

02.13 2 enemy bombers type DB 3 in sight, altitude 1500 meters, distance 3000 meters. I have the weapons manned. The aircraft is hauled alongside. Doing this particularly outstanding: No. 1 Btsmt. Zink, Ob.Gefr. Kroll (Luftwaffe) and Matr.Ob.Gefr. Kowoll.

Nevertheless, the two Russians are circling and seemingly looking, they don't see us. But they don't fly off either. The aircraft crew are rescued. The soldiers stand up to their stomachs in the water. My stern demolished the wing of the BV 138, so we jump next to one another in the sea. The gear will be taken over as much as possible, using all available means. The BV 138 crew works splendidly. The aircraft leaks.

02.45 Radio Message 0237/2352/786:

1.) Report by Short Signal, the time the aircraft was found. With it "Yes" or "No" if it will be operable again.

2.) Harms report regular information for relief.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

02.40 The DB 3 have passed out of sight.

Everyone takes a deep breath, a busy and exciting half hour is over.

02.45 WSW 4-5, 8/10, Sea 4, Swell, Vis. 10 nm We have to cut the lines because the aircraft can stand on its head any moment. It is already very heavy.

03.13 BV 138 sunk with artillery and M.G. 38. I ran off at increased speed. The Russians will have noticed, that something is wrong here in the area.

08.45 Dived.

12.00 Proceeded submerged, west of the Nowaja-Semlja Kara Sea.

Day's run: Surfaced 135 nm

14.05 Surfaced.

14.54 Outgoing Radio Message 1454/0321/705:

- F.d.U. -

BV not flyable. Crew and gear taken aboard. Wreck sunk naval square 2513. Air surveillance. Going to 3 [will give] "Stieler" to "Brünner". SSW 4, Vis. 15 nm, pressure rising.

                                                      - Grau -

Sun and Moon Data 21.08.43

- 18 -

continued

21.08.43 The aircraft was not flyable. A return flight was out of the question. The two DB 3 only accelerated the offload and sinking and provided a warlike setting.

I can only make the radio call now because of poor reception conditions.

Radio Message 1450/1506/707:

- Harms -

Takeoff 14.30 hours. Arrival 23.00 hours landing place 1.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

15.10 Radio Message 1624/0919/794:

1.) Harms Short Signal, if weather for relief is favorable, not heard up to now. Repeat.

2.) Grau report cause and situation. Brünner at meeting point 22 August 02.00 hours.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

18.17 Outgoing Radio Message 1817/1737/715:

- F.d.U. -

Motor seized, boat leaked.

                                                      - Grau -

22.08.43

00.00 AT 3146

W 1, 8/10, Sea 1, Swell 3, Vis. 12-15 nm, +6°C, 952 mb, Gamma 1.026 at +5°C

02.34 U-Brünner sighted.

03.10 U-Brünner out of sight.

Had not seen us despite Varta Lamp and star shooting. U-601 is at the glacier and on the bright horizon. Lowest distance to Brünner 3-4 nm. The camouflage by the glacier is nearly total.

04.00 U-Brünner in sight. Ran towards him to Cape Pinegin.

04.20 Returned to U-Brünner and made contact.

08.40 Anchored at Berth 3.

12.00 AT 3149 At Base 3.

NW 1-2, overcast (fog), Sea 0, Swell, Vis. 10 nm, +5°C, 957 mb, Gamma 1.025 at +5°C Disembarked Oblt. Stieler with his crew. Luftwaffe gear given over. Reg.Rat. Stöve and Insp. Ernst taken on board after deployment of the weather station "Gerhard".

[hand written Took the cover for Harms' canister along]

Sun and Moon Data 21.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 22.08.43

- 19 -

continued

23.08.43

00.00 AT 3149 Radio Message 2247/2108/724:

WSW 1, overcast (fog), Sea 0, Vis. 8-12 nm, +2°C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.025.5 at +6°C To All:   Commander of the White Sea Flotilla departed 19.8. Beluschja 19 August on sightseeing tour.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

00.40 Weighed anchor.

Going along to the coast up to Cape Lüdtke square AT 2297, to meet the Russian Commander of the White Sea Flotilla.

12.00 AT 2359

E 1-2, overcast, Sea 1-2, Vis. 12 nm, +4C, 956 mb, Gamma 1.026.5 at +5.5C

13.10 Training dive, the Russian was not met. Pity!

13.32 Surfaced.

18.52 Outgoing Radio Message 1852/1815/788:

F.d.U.

"Gerhard" 7790 kHz to CD.

                                                      - Grau -

24.08.43

00.00 AT 1555

NE 1-2, overcast (rain, fog), Sea 1, Vis. 8-12 nm, +3.5°C, 952 mb, Gamma 1.027 at +5°C

12.00 NE 2, overcast, Sea 2, Vis. 12 nm, +4°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.027 at +5°C Day's run: Surfaced ./. nm

23.06 Outgoing Radio Message: 2306/716 ßß:

Am 36 hours off meeting point with escort.

                                                      - Grau -

25.08.43

00.00 AT 6232

NE 2, overcast, Sea 2, Vis. 8 nm, +3°C, 947 mb, Gamma 1.027 +5°C

12.00 AT 5576

NE 2, overcast, Sea 2, Vis. 10 nm, +4°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.028 at +7°C

13.35 Radio Message 1319/1031/722:

- Grau -

26 August radiate:

1.) Ingöy 04.00 to 06.05 hours "Trave" 244 kHz.

2.) Helnes 06.05 to 06.10 hours "Jadi" 292 kHz.

3.) Bearing Signals Willi on 368 kHz from 09.00 from escort boat at SR 1.

All half hourly each 5 minutes.

                                                      - F.d.U. -

Sun and Moon Data 23.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 24.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 25.08.43

- 20 -

continued

25.08.43

20.09 AT 8955 Test dive.

Deep dive test to depth A +45 meters.

21.00 Surfaced.

26.08.43

00.00 AT 4971

NW 1, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 5 nm, +6°C, 949 mb, Gamma 1.027 at +7°C

11.20 At Point SR 1 taken in convoy.

12.00 AT 7515 Day's run: Surfaced ./. nm

NE 1, 9/10, Sea 1, Vis. 12 nm, +4°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.028 at +9°C

14.00 Made fast in Hammerfest alongside "BLACK WATCH".

Offloaded the weather gear.

27.08.43

09.00 Took over mail and cast off for transit to Tromsö.

17.30 Made fast Tromsö air base. Offloaded the Luftwaffe gear and Luftwaffe oil as well as a crew of flying personnel. Took over mine gear.

28.08.43

02.00 Cast off and proceeded to Narvik.

15.00 Mada fast alongside "METEOR".

                              Experiences.

      The ice conditions in the Kara See in the Summer of 1943 seem to be more favorable than in the previous year. The operations possibilities of U-boats as tanking boats for an aircraft bring no significant difficulties for the boat. The Russian defenses and surveillance of northern Nowaja-Semlja in the first half of the Summer only took place when German units were found. (Sinking of "AKADEMIK SCHOKALSKY" by "U-255" (Harms) triggered by reconnaissance by flying boat. Emergency landing BV 138 and increased open and encoded radio traffic brought reconnaissance by two DB 3.)

      Radar detections were not determined.

            On board 28 August 1943



            Kapitänleutnant and Kommandant.

Sun and Moon Data 25.08.43

Sun and Moon Data 26.08.43

	Enclosures to U-601's KTB - click on the text at left to proceed to the document

ChartA	Track chart of entire patrol 31 July - 26 August

ChartB	Track chart of period 3 - 22 August

Report	Intirim Report for period from 30 July to 12 August

Radio	Excerpt of the Radio Log

Enclosure 1 to F.d.U. Norwegen Gkdos 3135

Comments of the F.d.U. Norwegen

on the K.T.B. of "U-601" from 26.7. - 28.8.43

1.)	To 3 August at 05.10 hours: though according to "U-255" (Harms) report Cape Pinigin is very poorly suited for refueling and takeoff, as glacier ice drifts when the wind is favorable.
2.)	To 21 August: Aircraft salvage properly handled and carried out well.
3.)	Special task done with skill.

I.V.



	Comments of the Admiral Nordmeer
	on the Kriegstagebuch of "U-601" for the period from 26.7. - 28.08.43.


	The comments of the F.d.U.-Norwegen are agreed to. The attempt to salvage the aircraft was handled with outstanding seamanship skills. Otherwise nothing to note.


	Admiral Nordmeer 29 September 1943.
	B.Nr.Gkdos.01097 A1

	To
	Marinegruppenkommando Nord/Flottenkommando
	Info:
	Führer der Unterseeboote Norwegen.

	Enclosed the K.T.B. "U-601 for the period from 26.7. - 28.8.1943 with corresponding Enclosures and comments of the F.d.U.-Norwegen as well as the Admiral Nordmeer are presented.

	Signed in draft Klüber.



	Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote
	on the K.T.B. of "U-601" (Grau) from 26.7. 0 28.8.1943.

	Agreed.


		For the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote
		- The Chief of the Operations Department -



	Marinegruppenkommando Nord
	and Flottenkommando Headquarters 10 October 1943.
	B.Nr. Gkdos.5062/43 A2

	U. Oberkommando der Kriegsmarine - Skl. -


	Presented.
	Nothing to note.


		On behalf of

Click the icons to view the associated records

Return to the U-boat KTB page

- 1 -




	26.07.43	Hammerfest, torpedo loading.

	27.07.43	Transit to Tromsö. (in convoy)
		I fly to Narvik for reporting and receive instructions for the new operation.

	28.07.43	Loaded Luftwaffe gear alongside "MAX STINSKY". Flew back from Narvik.

	29.07.43	Radio Message 0318/2357/766:
	09.55	- Grau and Brasack -
		Immediate readiness. "Brasack" for now continue on schedule.
		- F.d.U. -
	04.05	Radio Message 0315/0009/767:
		- Grau, Hansen, Brasack, Group Monsun -
		17.50 hours a formation of 1 battleship, 1 carrier, 1 heavy cruiser, 1 light cruiser and several small units, in square AF 7343, northerly course, high speed.
		- F.d.U. -
	03.50	Radio Message 0310/0032/768:
		- F.d.U. -
		Operational orders for Grau are with Adm.Po.Kü (Courier Station).
		- Bugs -
	05.00	Cast off from "MAX STINSKY".
		In order to be ready immediately, I have to leave my berth because the water level is falling and in about 4 hours I will be stuck at my berth at low water. According to my inquiries, the Operational Orders are in Hammerfest, or on the way there by Courier.
		Transit to Hammerfest in convoy.
	18.40	Radio Message 1730/1532/782:
		- Grau and Brasack -
		Carry out plans as tasked.
		- F.d.U. -

	30.07.43	Took over Operational Orders and outfitted the boat, prepared for shallow water operations.

	31.07.43
	02.00	Cast off from "BLACK WATCH".
		Task is: Reconnoiter Landing Place 3, location for deployment of weather station on the northwest coast of Nowaja-Semlja, if possible at Cape Pinegin square 3148. Afterwards ice reconnaissance and spare tanking boat for BV 138, which are tasked with reconnaissance in the Kara Sea.
	02.22	Dived for trim test.

- 2 -



	continued
	31.07.43
	02.51		Surfaced.
	04.55	AC 7274	Released R-Boot escort at "SR 1".
		SE 2, Sea 1, Swell, overcast, Vis. 2-3 nm, +10°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.025	[Gamma = Specific Gravity/Specific Weight, sea water typically = 1.027]
	12.00	Northeast of North Cape	Day's run: Surfaced 106 nm
		AC 4948
		S 1, Sea 1, Swell, overcast, Vis. 12 nm, +10°C, 961 mb, Gamma 1.027
	18.08	AC 5712	Drifting mine.
			Radio Message 1848/1759/705:
			- Grau, Harms -
			1.) First takeoff after Harms reports ready intended 4 August.
			2.) Grau proceed to Landing Place 3 about 3 August.
			3.) Harms pay close attention to camouflage.
			- F.d.U. -

	01.08.43
	00.00	AC 5444
		E 2-3, Sea 0, overcast (rain), Vis. 8 nm, +5°C, 962 mb, Gamma 1.027
	12.00	AC 6124	Barents Sea Day's run: Surfaced 262 nm
		N 1-2, Sea 1, 8/10, Vis. 10 nm, +5°C, 961 mb, Gamma 1.026
	12.47	AC 3874	Deep dive to depth A +20 meters.
	14.31		Surfaced.

	02.08.43
	00.00	AC 3689
		Wind 0, overcast, Sea 0, Vis. 8-12 nm, +3.5°C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.026
	02.10	AC 3693	Drifting mine.
	12.00	AT 1319	Barents Sea Day's run: Surfaced 262 nm
		Wind 0, overcast, Sea -, Vis. 8-10 nm +5°C, 956 mb, Gamma 1.026	Surfaced 5 nm
			271 nm
	19.15		Radio Message 1905/1651/773:
			- Grau -
			After reporting the ice limit in accordance with Operational Orders continue reporting about every 50 nm. In case if doubt give full square.
			- F.d.U. -
	21.45	AT 2315	Drifting mine.

	Sun and Moon Data 31.07.43
	Sun and Moon Data 01.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 02.08.43

- 3 -



	continued
	03.08.43		West of Nowaja-Semlja, Barents Sea
	00.00	AT 2334
		Wind 0, overcast (mist, rain), Sea 0, Vis. 6-8 nm, +3°C, 995 mb, Gamma 1.026
	04.05	AT 3148	Set out the rubber boat for terrain reconnaissance.
		SW 0-1, overcast (fog, rain), Sea 0, Vis. 1-5 nm, +3.5°C, 962 mb, Gamma 1.027
	05.10		Launched rubber boat.
			Bays at Cape Pinegin and Cape Stalin are suitable as Landing Place 3 for BV 138. Shallow beach, more protected landing place against wind and seas from 60°-300°. In the open-ended square [shaped bay] the flying boat has complete camouflage against any view from approximately 30-meter high rocks. Even direct overflights by reconnaissance aircraft would be possible. Lumber for beaching is abundant.
			Cape Pinegin is very suitable for deploying a weather station, flat level, without boulders, 40 meters above sea level.
	12.00	ÄF 8882	Day's run: Surfaced 220 nm
		N 1, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 8-12 nm, +3°C, 950 mb, Gamma 1.026
	12.52	ÄF 8858	Test dive.
	13.23		Surfaced.
	14.10		Radio Message 1406/1123/793:
			- Harms -
			4 August 04.00 hours report concerning operational possibilities in accordance with orders.
			- F.d.U. -
			Outgoing Radio Message 1515/798 ßß:
			"Yes" 148, meeting point 3.
			- Grau -
			In accordance with orders it is hereby expressed, that square 3148 is suitable as place for weather station and as Landing Place 3.
	18.28	ÄF 8559	At the drift ice limit.
			North of Nowa-Semlja.
			Outgoing Radio Message: 2308/711 ßß:
			My position is square ÄF 8559. Passage hindered by drift ice fields, however possible for ships and boats.
			- Grau -

	04.08.43
	00.00	ÄF 8531	At the ice limit.
		Wind 0, overcast (fog), Sea 1, Vis. 2-4 nm, +2°C, 943 mb, Gamma 1.025

- 4 -



	continued
	04.08.43
	01.30	ÄF 8637	Drifting mine.
	04.30		Radio Message 0425/714 ßß:
			Believe time point favorable for operations.
			- Harms -
	08.20		Radio Message 0810/0604/716:
			- Harms -
			Takeoff 07.00 hours. Arrival about 14.30 hours.
			- F.d.U. -
	12.00	ÄF 9428	At the ice limit.
		Wind 0, overcast (fog), Sea 0, Vis. 4-8 nm, +1°C, 939 mb, Gamma 1.025	Day's run: Surfaced 164 nm
			Surfaced 1.25 nm
			165.25 nm
	15.32	The 3 numbers are the last numbers of the square through which the ice limit goes	Outgoing Radio Message: 1532/722 ßß:
			622 422.
			- Grau -
			Radio Message 1724/1526/726, 1737/1603/727:
			- Harms -
			1.) From 5 August reconnaissance 1, 2.
			2.) It is important to determine first, what the ice conditions are in the operational area of the combat boats and on the eastern side of Nowaja-Semlja and what transit options there are for U-boats.
			3.) Report navigable for U-boat main courses from the north of Dickson to the west and from the southwestern-most point of the contiguous ice to the north by Short Signal DVUM.
			4.) Report traffic encountered at the same time by Short Signal.
			- F.d.U. -
	21.50		Radio Message 2139/2044/732:
			1.) Grau - report ice limit up to 76°N afterwards inspection of Landing Places 1 and 2.
			2.) Sickel initially occupy Herbschleb attack area. From 76°N report ice limit every 50 nm.
			- F.d.U. -

	05.08.43
	00.00	ÄF 9643
		Wind 0, overcast, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 940 mb, Gamma 1.024
	12.00	ÄF 9687	At the ice limit north of Einsamkeit Island, Kara Sea.
		SSW 2, 3/10, Sea 1-2, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 994 mb, Gamma 1.023	Day's run: Surfaced 140 nm
	12.45		Test dive.
	13.26		Surfaced.

- 5 -



	continued
	05.08.43
	14.55		Radio Message 1441/1129/738:
			- Harms -
			Report smooth landing after transfer flight with Short Signal "Yes", otherwise after 14 hours by "No". Catch up for first launch. With missions from there only in special circumstances.
	17.00	ÄF	Broke off determining the ice limit, because SW-wind, fog, air temperature +0°C, water temperature +0.5°C, I expect ice danger and want to get clearance.
	20.00	ÄF 9918
		W 2, overcast (fog, rain), Sea 1, Vis. 500-600 meters, +1°C, 946 mb, Gamma 1.023
	20.37		Radio Message 2028/746 ßß:
			Ice limit runs from square AT 3620 in direction 175°T.
			- Harms -
	20.48		Outgoing Radio Message: 2048/748 ßß
			573 674 935.
			- Grau -
	21.54		Radio Message 2343/2307/754:
			1.) Sickel report position.
			2.) Grau head for Landing Place 1. Report ice hindrance.
			3.) Harms from 6 August reconnaissance 2, report ice limit as yesterday.
			- F.d.U. -
	22.04		Earlier transmitting of the Radio Message was not possible due to bad communications and so was not tried.
			Radio Message 2110/2107/752 ßß:
			Ice limit runs from square AT 5340 in direction 35°T.
			- Harms -

	06.08.43
	00.00	ÄF 9861
		SW 1-2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 8-12 nm, +1.5°C, 946 mb, Gamma 1.025
	04.15	ÄF 9857	Drifting mine.
	05.12	ÄF 9873	Drifting mine.
			Radio Message 0400 ßß:
			6th day of the current month. 09.00 hours 2.
			- Harms -
	08.30		Radio Message 0615/0041/756:
			- Harms -
			Report position of the last three square numbers, because the Short Signal 0407 was not completely clear. Ice situation is clear.
			- F.d.U. -

- 6 -



	continued
	06.08.43		West of Einsamkeit Island, Kara Sea.
	12.00	AS 1116	Day's run: Surfaced 130 nm
		WNW 1, overcast, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 957 mb, Gamma 1.025	Surfaced 2.05 nm
			132.05 nm
	18.07		Outgoing Radio Message: 1807/775 ßß:
			Passage ice free.
			- Grau -
	19.38		Radio Message 1926/776 ßß and 2008/779 ßß:
			Ice limit runs from square XA 7470 in direction 320°T, passage not possible.
			- Harms -
	22.36		Radio Message 2230/1735/773 ßß:
			04.00 hours my Short Signal from yesterday was confirmed incorrectly. It must mean: 08.00 hours 1.
			- Harms -

	07.08.43
	00.00	AT 3282
		Wind 0, 8/10, Sea 0, Vis. 10 nm, +5°C, 957 mb, Gamma 1.025
	00.50		Saw U-Harms, he is well camouflaged.
	01.20		Recognition Signals Exchanged.
	02.08		Flooded down alongside Harms. Camouflaged the boat, boat lies on the bottom so that the over deck is just overspilled.
	03.40		Radio Message 0323/2357/788:
			- Harms -
			From 7 August explore ice conditions between 76° and 77°N as far eastward as possible.
			- F.d.U. -
	06.58		Radio Message 0658 ßß:
			7th day of the current month 10.00 hours 2.
			- Harms -
	12.00	AT 3278	Base 1.
		NE 2-3, overcast, Sea 2, Vis. 8 nm, +5°C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.026	Day's run: Surfaced 100 nm
	18.20		Blew. Transit to send Radio Message. Ice reconnaissance.
	20.55		Outgoing Radio Message 2055/1924/721:
			- F.d.U. -
			Met Harms, reconnaissance 3. Ice from AS 2410 and AS 1390 solidifying to XA 7350 then solid. Coastal strip ice free. Prepare replacement BV. NE 3, Vis. 5 nm, fog banks.
			- Grau -

- 7 -



	continued
	07.08.43
	20.55		Ice field square AT 3284 in the process of breaking up, only still exists in a 50 nm wide strip, visibly breaking up. In 10 hours it will be gone.

	08.08.43
	00.00	AT 3286	Shot a polar bear. Went back to Harms.
		NE 3-4, overcast, Sea 3, Vis. 12 nm, +2°C, Vis. 12 nm, +2C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.021
	04.15		Radio Message 0353/0143/731:
			- Harms, Grau -
			1.) From 8 August reconnaissance 1. Report significant ice changes with square and main course. Relief BV was prepared.
			2.) Grau in the vicinity Landing Place especially reconnoiter ice limit to the south. Relief by "U-703" (Brünner) about 18 August anticipated.
			- F.d.U. -
	07.00		Flooded down alongside Harms, boat set on the bottom and camouflaged.
	12.00	AT 3278	Base 1.
		NE 2-3, 2/10, Sea 1, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.021 at +4°C	Day's run: Surfaced 60 nm

	09.06.43
	00.00	AT 3278
		NE 2, overcast, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 10 nm, +3°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.021 at +4°C
	12.00	AT 3278	Base 1.
		NE 2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 10 nm, +1°C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.021 at +3.5°C	Day's run: ./. nm
	12.05		Blew, put to sea for square AT 3278 to carry out ice reconnaissance to the south.
	16.33		Radio Message 1617/1536/765:
			- Harms -
			1.) Takeoff and return flight after 4th reconnaissance notify of destination and time 6 hours prior by Short Signal.
			2) Takeoff approval from here by Radio Message.
			3) Ready report for next BV first on orders.
			- F.d.U. -
	20.15	AT 3642	Test dive. Stopped at depth 20 meters. Boat does not move a meter up or down. Despite pumping 3000 liters, HF and 8° down by the stern the boat does not rise over 16.5 meters. At depth 20 meters Gamma 1.025. Surfaced. Gamma 1.016.

	Sun and Moon Data 07.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 08.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 09.08.43

- 8 -



	continued
	09.08.43
	20.45		Surfaced.
	22.15		Radio Message 2200/1903/769:
			Storm warning for 10 August for the exit of the White Sea and adjoining area of the Barents Sea (area 1, 8, 9, 10): Weather deteriorating, NE-Storm, Strength 9-12.
			- F.d.U. -
	23.45		Radio Message 2335/2312/773 ßß:
			Due to bad weather conditions in my operations area no air reconnaissance possible.
			- Harms -

	10.08.43
	00.00	AT 3677
		NNE 4, overcast, Sea 3, Vis. 10 nm, +2°C, 957 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +5°C
	08.00	AT 3814	Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix 354°T, 8.3 nm.
	12.00	AT 3728	East of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.
		N 3, 1/10, Sea 3-2, Vis. 15 nm, +5°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.013 at +6°C	Day's run: Surfaced 160 nm
			Surfaced 2 nm
			162 nm
	12.58		Radio Message 1244/1014/781:
			1.) "U-737" operate at the north coast of Bear Island from 10 August.
			2.) From 11 August with "U-625" transit from AT 32 to AT 85 expected.
			3.) Ice field lay 5 August about between AT 3620, 3980, 5340, 3510. Bypass to the west and east. Note shift due to wind.
			- F.d.U. -
	16.00	AT 3742	Due to the wind, the ice in the ice fields is pushed together without becoming solid. Shot a polar bear. The ice won't last long.
			Outgoing Radio Message 1908/790 ßß:
			Large ice fields square AT 20.
			- Grau -
	21.16	AT 3716	Test dive.
	21.42		Surfaced.

	11.08.43
	00.00	AT 3465
		NE 1-2, 2/10, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 960 mb, Gamma 1.018 at +4°C

	Sun and Moon Data 09.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 10.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 11.08.43

- 9 -



	continued
	11.08.43
	08.00	AT 3278	At Harms asked if there was anything new.
			"No". Continued to the north. Due to the continual northeast wind I believe it is important, to check if the area to the north is ice free.
	10.15		Radio Message 1052 ßß:
			Due to bad weather conditions in my operations area no air reconnaissance is possible.
			- Harms -
	12.00		Radio Message 1139/1046/703:
			Combat boats in the Kara Sea form Group "Viking".
			- F.d.U. -
	12.15		Radio Message 1159/1048/704:
			"Viking" 11 August 5 19.00 hours MDR-5 fly from Anderma to Dikson. Call-sign aircraft commander O S I, wavelength 938 meters, call-sign of the ground station O 2 S, wavelength 76 meters.
			- F.d.U. -
	12.00	AT 3523	Northeast of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.
		NE 3, 6/10, Sea 3, Vis. 12-15 nm, +5°C, 963 mb, Gamma 1.016 at +5°C	Day's run: Surfaced 205 nm
			Surfaced 2 nm
			207 nm
	17.00	AT 3283	Drifting mine.
	22.35		Radio Message 2219/2028/722:
			- Harms -
			Shift reconnaissance 1 as far to the southwest as possible on suspected shipping route from the Jugor and Kara Straits.
			- F.d.U. -

	12.08.43
	00.00	AT 3259
		NE 2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 5-12 nm, +1°C, Vis. 5-12 nm, +1°C, 965 mb, Gamma 1, 1.020 at +3.5°C
	12.00	AT 3278	Northeast of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.
		Wind 0, 6/10 (fog), Sea 1, Vis. 6-15 nm, +6°C, 967 mb, Gamma 1.016 at +5°C
	12.40		Test dive.
	13.15		Surfaced.
	14.30		Flooded down at Harms and camouflaged.
			False alarm at the base. Because of a mirage, someone mistook me for the evil enemy.
	17.06		Radio Message 1706/744 ßß:
			12th day of the current month 14.15 hours 1.
			- Harms -

- 10 -




	13.08.43
	00.00	AT 2685
		NNW 1, overcast (fog), Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 6-10 nm, +2°C, 968 mb, Gamma 1.020 at +4°C
	00.20		Radio Message 0020/754 ßß:
			West of 70°W passage ice free.
			- Harms -
	08.18		Radio Message 0848/ ßß:
			Basis Nord 14.00 hours.
			- Harms -
	12.00	AT 3278	Base 1, Spery Nawolok.
		E 1-2, 9/10 (snow), Sea 1, Vis. 10 nm, +2°C, 968 mb, Gamma 1.025 at +4°C	Day's run: Surfaced 20 nm
			Surfaced 1.8 nm
			21.8 nm
	21.10		Blew. Put the boat into the wind and anchored because of it is freshening.

	14.08.43
	00.00	AT 3278	At Base 1 Sporty Nawolok.
		E 2, overcast, Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 967 mb, Gamma 1.024 at +4°C
	08.00		Weighed anchor.
			Want to inspect the ice field at AT 20 as well as Blagobjeluschja.
	12.00	AT 3436	East of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.
		NNE 1-2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 12 nm, +3°C, 970 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +5°C
	17.05		Radio Message 1616/1158/784:
			- Harms -
			Report as soon as ready at Point 1 in accordance with Serial No. 765 of 9 August.
			- F.d.U. -
	19.53		Dived.
		[Blagopoluchiya?]	In the Bay off Blagobjeluschja found radio masts and 2 houses. No vessels. Square AT 20 is ice free. A few ice bergs small size drift off the glacier and on the northern shore of the peninsula off Blagobjeluschja.

	15.08.43
	00.00	AT 2685
		NNW 1 overcast (fog), Sea 1, Swell, Vis. 6-10 nm, +2°C, 968 mb, Gamma 1.020 at +4°C

	Sun and Moon Data 13.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 14.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 15.08.43

- 11 -



	continued
	15.08.43
	12.00	AT 2915	East of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.
		NE 1-2, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 15 nm, +4°C, 967 mb, Gamma 1.016 at +5.5°C	Day's run: Surfaced 160 nm
			Surfaced 14 nm
			174 nm
	14.40		Radio Message 1413/1337/707 ßß:
			Have begun return transit due to engine damage 13 day of the current month.
			- Benker -
	16.00		Radio Message 1515/1429/709:
			U-625 on return transit around the north tip of Nowaja-Semlja to Andfjord.
			- F.d.U. -
	16.08		Outgoing Radio Message: 1608/713 ßß:
			Request meeting with Benker [my position is] AT 3278.
			- Grau -
	16.12	[typo actually Serial No. 1600/1609/711]	Radio Message 1413/1337/707 ßß:
		[typo actually Serial No. 1600/1609/711]	1.) Brünner positioned about 20 August to relieve Grau at Landing Place 3. Hand over there. Brünner report arrival 24 hours prior.
			2.) Grau after being relieved hand over fuel oil to Harms return transit Hammerfest Narvik.
			3.) Bugs return transit Narvik via AC 4940 Andfjord.
			4.) Grau and Bugs report estimated overhaul time in days before next operation by Short Signal.
			- F.d.U. -
	18.42		Radio Message 1822/1743/717:
			1.) Benker report position Short Signal and "Yes" is meeting still possible.
			2.) Meeting point Grau-Benker 20 nm northeast Serial No. 713.
			- F.d.U. -
	22.30		Radio Message 2225/2031/723 ßß:
			"Yes" square AT 3480.
			- Benker -

	16.08.43
	00.00	AT 3511
		NE 2, 9/10, Sea 2, Vis. 12-15 nm, +4°C, 965 mb, Gamma 1.014 at +6°C
	10.00	[This entire entry is not understood]	Went by Harms. There was nothing. Met Benker. Took over provisions for Harms. Handed over report for F.d.U. without enclosures. A steamer will always be a steamer [sending the report by sea is reliable], sending the report by aircraft would be dicey. (Report is an attachment to the K.T.B.).

- 12 -



	continued
	16.08.43
	12.00	AT 3285	East of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.
		NE 2, 1/10, Sea 1, Vis. 15-20 nm, +6°C, 965 mb, Gamma 1.021 at +5°C	Day's run: Surfaced 193 nm
	14.53		Outgoing Radio Message 1453/739 ßß:
		[Bogen is not understood]	In the course of the next week Bogen.
			- Grau -
	16.10		Anchored at Harms, gave over provisions.
	20.00	ENE 3, overcast, Sea 2-3, Vis. 4-6 nm	Broke off giving over provisions due to weather conditions.
			Weighed anchor. Shifted berth due to weather deterioration.

	17.08.43
	00.00	AT 3278
		E 1-2, overcast, Sea 2, Swell, Vis. 16 nm, +4°C, 958 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +6°C
	12.00	AT 3278	At Base I.
		E 3, overcast, Sea 2-3, Vis. 12 nm, +4°C, 953.5 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +6°C	Day's run: Surfaced ./. nm
	16.05		Radio Message 1547/1159/767:
			17 August U-636 departed Hammerfest around Nowaj-Semlja for AS 40, U-703 to relieve U-601 as spare tanking boat, U-360 to relieve "U-387" in AB 3584.
			- F.d.U. -
	16.00		Radio Message 1522/1158/765:
			- Group Viking -
			From 17 August expect "U-639" in the Ob Estuary.
			- F.d.U. -
	19.45	E 5-6, overcast (rain, mist), Sea 4-5, Vis. 1-3 nm	Weighed anchor due to Sea State.
		E 5-6, overcast (rain, mist), Sea 4-5, Vis. 1-3 nm	Harms also weighed anchor and is very unhappy with the BV 138 to windward of me. He can't move. I put to sea because otherwise I would have to anchor on the bar, and give him more space. I can't help him. The plane holds up admirably.

	18.08.43
	00.00	AT 3521
		SE 2, overcast (fog), Sea 2, Swell, Vis. 1 nm, +5°C, 941 mb, Gamma 1.015 at +5.5°C

	Sun and Moon Data 16.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 17.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 18.08.43

- 14 -



	continued
	18.08.43
			Provision and oil offload ended. Reserve crew for Operation "Husar" taken on board for return to home on request of the operations leader.
			Intend to go to Place 3 and possibly launch the BV 138 from there. The aircraft should take off with little fuel even in bad weather, shift to Place 3, refuel there and start the return flight from there. In addition: The fliging reserve is greater refuelling in Place 3 for the return flight home.

	19.08.43
	00.00	AT 3284
		Wind 0, overcast (fog), Sea 0, Vis. 200 meters, +6°C, 946 mb, Gamma 1.014 at +6°C
			Radio Message 0320/2128/728, 0357/2136/729:
			Prohibition on use Metox, as well as Grandin, is again emphasized. To prevent improper use on all boats, remove the 2 fastening screws on the receiver housing, remove the entire high-frequency stage in the center of the receiver with tuning buttons and place under lock and key by Kommandanten.
			Completion of this measure is to be recorded in the Kriegstagebuch.
	04.20		Measure carried out in accordance with Serial No. 728 and 729.
	12.00	AT 3113	North of Nowaja-Semlja, Kara Sea.
		SE 3, overcast (fog), Sea 3, Vis. 2-5 nm, +7°C, 937 mb, Gamma 1.026 at +5°C
	12.45		Radio Message 1213/1143/741
			- Harms -
			Takeoff report still not heard.
			Free to takeoff until latest 13.00 hours, not tomorrow.
			- F.d.U. -
	15.00		Radio Message 1444/745 ßß:
			Due to bad weather conditions in my operations area no air reconnaissance possible.
			- Harms -
	17.30	AT 3149	Both diesels stopped in Place 3. Off the glacier.

	20.08.43
	00.00	AT 3149
		S 1-2, 7/10, Sea 1, Vis. 8 nm, +7.5°C, 939 mb, Gamma 1.026 at +5°C

	Sun and Moon Data 18.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 19.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 20.08.43

- 15 -



	continued
	20.08.43
	00.08		I transmitted the Short Signal as agreed with Harms.
			Outgoing Radio Message 0008/752 ßß:
			Weather conditions favorable at meeting point.
			- Grau -
			Radio Message 0400/0059/756:
			- Grau -
			Due to weather conditions at destination harbor still no takeoff. Permission to follow, as soon as ready.
			- F.d.U. -
	12.00	AT 3149	Day's run: Surfaced 30nm
		Wind 0, 4/10, Sea 0, Swell, Vis. 15 nm, +8°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.025.5 at +4°C
	12.35		Radio Message 1218/0908/759:
			- Grau -
			Clear to take off from now.
			- F.d.U. -
	15.05		Radio Message 1453/1407/763:
			12.30 hours Basis Nord.
			- Harms -
	15.08	AT 3149	On reconnaissance wavelength recorded in the clear when stitched on: . . . . . coast: be ready for sea immediately. An open text does not seem trustworthy to me. On notification of the aircraft: "SOS 6877/57 East taxiing to the coast", put to sea. Headed at highest speed to position 68777/57 East which was later corrected to 0784/67 East.
		NSW 4, Sea 4, Vis. 10 nm, shimmering air
			With the Sea State an aircraft cannot last long.
	19.10		Radio Message 1902/1546/768:
			- Harms -
			Relief should take off about 09.00 hours. At 04.00 hours report operational possibility.
			- F.d.U. -
	22.16		Radio Message 2208/1643/770:
			1.) Returning flying boat gave SOS from square 2288 about 16.00 hours SOS taxies to the coast.
			2.) Hildebrandt, Brünner head there at high speed.
			3.) Grau to render assistance at high speed.
			- F.d.U. -
	21.00		Saw a white star. Answered with white. It is U-Hildebrandt, he is also searching. We divide the area. I offer to take on the difficult navigational task myself and want to go around the island. However, he asks to do this.

- 16 -



	continued
	20.08.43		For this he would have to come to course 200°, but turns north and must first be called back. I gave him course instructions.
	22.00		Continued search.
	22.40		Red star signal answered.
	22.55		BV 138 in sight. Hurray! The aircraft drifts. I go under protection and prepare to tow. In so doing the First Watch Officer Lt.z.S. Koch goes overboard three times.

	21.08.43
	00.00	AT 2521
		SW 4, 8/10, Sea 3, WSW Swell 4, Vis. 15-20 nm, +6°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.026 at +5°C
	00.22		BV in tow. Brought Oblt. Stieler on board, to discuss the situation.
	00.40		2nd line to the aircraft.
			I have a weight shackled on each line nevertheless, it jerks and breaks in the seas. How the plane was able to hold up for so long and how it could have landed on the water is unclear to me. My highest towing speed is one E-motor LF ahead one KF ahead. This allows me to keep the tow just in position. The seas still go over the cockpit of the aircraft. We lie off a lee shore. The wind freshens.
	00.48		Radio Message 0040/2350/787:
			- F.d.U. -
			1.) Since 20.00 hours no trace found.
			2.) At 21.30 hours Grau met.
			3.) Suspect unfortunate landing in Sea State 5, because no bearings received.
			4.) Nearing the coast only possible to 2 nm, so no answer to signal stars.
			5.) Gave up search and continued patrol.
			- Hildebrant -
	00.50		Outgoing Radio Message 0050/789 ßß:
			Have met seaplane. Square AT 2521.
			- Grau -
			Sent my signal to clarify the situation. Saving the aircraft is out of the question.
	03.40		Radio Message 0117/2130/782:
			Cover of canister torn. Oil lost. Inventory 780 liters. Vis. 10 nm, 1014 mb, rising.
			- Harms -

- 17 -



	continued
	21.08.43
	03.40		Radio Message 0142/0207/790 ßß:
			Meet in 24 hours.
			- Brünner -
	02.13		2 enemy bombers type DB 3 in sight, altitude 1500 meters, distance 3000 meters. I have the weapons manned. The aircraft is hauled alongside. Doing this particularly outstanding: No. 1 Btsmt. Zink, Ob.Gefr. Kroll (Luftwaffe) and Matr.Ob.Gefr. Kowoll.
			Nevertheless, the two Russians are circling and seemingly looking, they don't see us. But they don't fly off either. The aircraft crew are rescued. The soldiers stand up to their stomachs in the water. My stern demolished the wing of the BV 138, so we jump next to one another in the sea. The gear will be taken over as much as possible, using all available means. The BV 138 crew works splendidly. The aircraft leaks.
	02.45		Radio Message 0237/2352/786:
			1.) Report by Short Signal, the time the aircraft was found. With it "Yes" or "No" if it will be operable again.
			2.) Harms report regular information for relief.
			- F.d.U. -
	02.40		The DB 3 have passed out of sight.
			Everyone takes a deep breath, a busy and exciting half hour is over.
	02.45	WSW 4-5, 8/10, Sea 4, Swell, Vis. 10 nm	We have to cut the lines because the aircraft can stand on its head any moment. It is already very heavy.
	03.13		BV 138 sunk with artillery and M.G. 38. I ran off at increased speed. The Russians will have noticed, that something is wrong here in the area.
	08.45		Dived.
	12.00		Proceeded submerged, west of the Nowaja-Semlja Kara Sea.
			Day's run: Surfaced 135 nm
	14.05		Surfaced.
	14.54		Outgoing Radio Message 1454/0321/705:
			- F.d.U. -
			BV not flyable. Crew and gear taken aboard. Wreck sunk naval square 2513. Air surveillance. Going to 3 [will give] "Stieler" to "Brünner". SSW 4, Vis. 15 nm, pressure rising.
			- Grau -

- 18 -



	continued
	21.08.43		The aircraft was not flyable. A return flight was out of the question. The two DB 3 only accelerated the offload and sinking and provided a warlike setting.
			I can only make the radio call now because of poor reception conditions.
			Radio Message 1450/1506/707:
			- Harms -
			Takeoff 14.30 hours. Arrival 23.00 hours landing place 1.
			- F.d.U. -
	15.10		Radio Message 1624/0919/794:
			1.) Harms Short Signal, if weather for relief is favorable, not heard up to now. Repeat.
			2.) Grau report cause and situation. Brünner at meeting point 22 August 02.00 hours.
			- F.d.U. -
	18.17		Outgoing Radio Message 1817/1737/715:
			- F.d.U. -
			Motor seized, boat leaked.
			- Grau -

	22.08.43
	00.00	AT 3146
		W 1, 8/10, Sea 1, Swell 3, Vis. 12-15 nm, +6°C, 952 mb, Gamma 1.026 at +5°C
	02.34		U-Brünner sighted.
	03.10		U-Brünner out of sight.
			Had not seen us despite Varta Lamp and star shooting. U-601 is at the glacier and on the bright horizon. Lowest distance to Brünner 3-4 nm. The camouflage by the glacier is nearly total.
	04.00		U-Brünner in sight. Ran towards him to Cape Pinegin.
	04.20		Returned to U-Brünner and made contact.
	08.40		Anchored at Berth 3.
	12.00	AT 3149	At Base 3.
		NW 1-2, overcast (fog), Sea 0, Swell, Vis. 10 nm, +5°C, 957 mb, Gamma 1.025 at +5°C	Disembarked Oblt. Stieler with his crew. Luftwaffe gear given over. Reg.Rat. Stöve and Insp. Ernst taken on board after deployment of the weather station "Gerhard".
			[hand written Took the cover for Harms' canister along]

- 19 -



	continued
	23.08.43
	00.00	AT 3149	Radio Message 2247/2108/724:
		WSW 1, overcast (fog), Sea 0, Vis. 8-12 nm, +2°C, 959 mb, Gamma 1.025.5 at +6°C	To All: Commander of the White Sea Flotilla departed 19.8. Beluschja 19 August on sightseeing tour.
			- F.d.U. -
	00.40		Weighed anchor.
			Going along to the coast up to Cape Lüdtke square AT 2297, to meet the Russian Commander of the White Sea Flotilla.
	12.00	AT 2359
		E 1-2, overcast, Sea 1-2, Vis. 12 nm, +4C, 956 mb, Gamma 1.026.5 at +5.5C
	13.10		Training dive, the Russian was not met. Pity!
	13.32		Surfaced.
	18.52		Outgoing Radio Message 1852/1815/788:
			F.d.U.
			"Gerhard" 7790 kHz to CD.
			- Grau -

	24.08.43
	00.00	AT 1555
		NE 1-2, overcast (rain, fog), Sea 1, Vis. 8-12 nm, +3.5°C, 952 mb, Gamma 1.027 at +5°C
	12.00	NE 2, overcast, Sea 2, Vis. 12 nm, +4°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.027 at +5°C	Day's run: Surfaced ./. nm
	23.06		Outgoing Radio Message: 2306/716 ßß:
			Am 36 hours off meeting point with escort.
			- Grau -

	25.08.43
	00.00	AT 6232
		NE 2, overcast, Sea 2, Vis. 8 nm, +3°C, 947 mb, Gamma 1.027 +5°C
	12.00	AT 5576
		NE 2, overcast, Sea 2, Vis. 10 nm, +4°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.028 at +7°C
	13.35		Radio Message 1319/1031/722:
			- Grau -
			26 August radiate:
			1.) Ingöy 04.00 to 06.05 hours "Trave" 244 kHz.
			2.) Helnes 06.05 to 06.10 hours "Jadi" 292 kHz.
			3.) Bearing Signals Willi on 368 kHz from 09.00 from escort boat at SR 1.
			All half hourly each 5 minutes.
			- F.d.U. -

	Sun and Moon Data 23.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 24.08.43
	Sun and Moon Data 25.08.43

- 20 -



	continued
	25.08.43
	20.09	AT 8955	Test dive.
			Deep dive test to depth A +45 meters.
	21.00		Surfaced.

	26.08.43
	00.00	AT 4971
		NW 1, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 5 nm, +6°C, 949 mb, Gamma 1.027 at +7°C
	11.20		At Point SR 1 taken in convoy.
	12.00	AT 7515	Day's run: Surfaced ./. nm
		NE 1, 9/10, Sea 1, Vis. 12 nm, +4°C, 948 mb, Gamma 1.028 at +9°C
	14.00		Made fast in Hammerfest alongside "BLACK WATCH".
			Offloaded the weather gear.

	27.08.43
	09.00		Took over mail and cast off for transit to Tromsö.
	17.30		Made fast Tromsö air base. Offloaded the Luftwaffe gear and Luftwaffe oil as well as a crew of flying personnel. Took over mine gear.

	28.08.43
	02.00		Cast off and proceeded to Narvik.
	15.00		Mada fast alongside "METEOR".

		Experiences.

		The ice conditions in the Kara See in the Summer of 1943 seem to be more favorable than in the previous year. The operations possibilities of U-boats as tanking boats for an aircraft bring no significant difficulties for the boat. The Russian defenses and surveillance of northern Nowaja-Semlja in the first half of the Summer only took place when German units were found. (Sinking of "AKADEMIK SCHOKALSKY" by "U-255" (Harms) triggered by reconnaissance by flying boat. Emergency landing BV 138 and increased open and encoded radio traffic brought reconnaissance by two DB 3.)
		Radar detections were not determined.

			On board 28 August 1943

			Kapitänleutnant and Kommandant.