HMS Untiring (P59) – The Unyielding U-Class Submarine of WWII

The Birth of HMS Untiring (P59)

Launched on 20 January 1943, HMS Untiring (P59) was a U-class submarine of the Royal Navy, built by Vickers-Armstrong. Designed for operations in shallow waters, the 191-ft-long vessel was armed with four torpedo tubes, a 3-inch deck gun, and machine guns. She was a versatile and formidable addition to the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet during World War II.

Following her commissioning in June 1943, Untiring underwent training and patrol exercises before being sent on active war duty, where she would prove her name true – remaining tireless in battle across multiple theatres of war.

War Patrols and Victories

Norwegian Waters Patrol

Untiring’s first assignment was in the icy waters off Norway, where she conducted an anti-submarine sweep. It was during this patrol that she encountered the Norwegian fishing vessel Havbris I, suspected of aiding enemy forces. The crew was ordered to abandon ship before Untiring sank it using gunfire. The fishermen were taken aboard the submarine and later safely released in Shetland.

Mediterranean Deployment

In late 1943, HMS Untiring was reassigned to the 10th Submarine Flotilla, based in Malta. From there, she launched multiple patrols in the Mediterranean Sea, attacking Axis supply lines and enemy vessels. Her confirmed victories included:

  • German auxiliary minesweeper M 6022/Enseigne (April 1944)

  • German merchant vessels Diana and Siena (formerly Astrée)

  • German auxiliary submarine chasers UJ 6075/Clairvoyant and UJ 6078/La Havraise

  • Netlayer Netztender 44/Prudente

  • Several small sailing vessels sunk using gunfire

Despite her successes, Untiring also had a few missed opportunities. She launched unsuccessful attacks on the German U-boat U-616, the auxiliary submarine chaser UJ 6073/Nimeth Allah, and the former Italian torpedo boat TA18 (Solferino). Nevertheless, her service in the Mediterranean was considered a resounding success, as she severely disrupted Axis supply routes.

Post-War Service and Fate

With the war over, HMS Untiring was loaned to the Greek Navy in July 1945, where she was renamed Xifias (Y-10), meaning ‘Swordfish’ in Greek. She remained in service with Greece for seven years before being returned to the Royal Navy in 1952.

By then, Untiring was considered obsolete, and instead of being scrapped, she was repurposed as a sonar target for Royal Navy training exercises. On 25 July 1957, she was deliberately sunk off the East Rutts, in Bigbury Bay.

The Wreck – A Diver’s Delight

Today, the wreck of HMS Untiring lies upright at a depth of approximately 53–55 metres in the English Channel, south of Plymouth. She remains remarkably intact, with her conning tower, bow torpedo tubes, and propellers still in place.

Due to her depth, diving Untiring is considered a technical dive, requiring experience and careful planning. However, those who make the descent are rewarded with excellent visibility, thriving marine life, and a unique opportunity to explore a well-preserved World War II submarine.

A Legacy That Endures

From hunting enemy vessels in the Mediterranean to serving in the Greek Navy and ultimately becoming an underwater relic, HMS Untiring has had a truly extraordinary career. Her wreck now serves as a historical marker, a home to marine life, and a poignant reminder of the bravery of those who served aboard her.