Osprey Publishing - New Vanguard 151 - Kriegsmarine Coastal Forces

Although often overlooked in favour of the U-boats or battleships, the vast majority of the Kriegsmarine was formed of the smaller vessels of the coastal forces.

These ships and boats, which included minesweepers, torpedo boats, patrol boats, and blockade breakers, gave crucial service to Germany during the war, and many continued serving for decades after the surrender in such tasks as clearing minefields. Also included in these forces was Hitler's yacht, the Ostwind.

This book reveals the history of the vessels that formed the backbone of the Kriegsmarine, and combines fascinating anecdotes, detailed technical information, and full-colour artwork.

Introduction
Minensuchboote (minesweepers)
Torpedoboote (torpedo boats) - small destroyers armed with two sets of torpedo tubes and similar to the Allied destroyer escort
Raumboote - trawlers pressed into military service which were literally “outpost” vessels performing a patrol service and giving early warning of the approach of enemy forces
Tenders: “Mothership” vessels for flotillas of smaller vessels such as E-boats and U-boats
Tankers and auxiliaries - provided crucial refuelling facilities to U-boats. Most were hunted down and destroyed during the course of the war
Blockage breakers
Miscellaneous - including former cruise liners acting as troopships, and the Wilhelm Gustlov, training ships and Hitler's personal yacht