QShips and Their Story

Q-Ships and Their Story by E. Keble Chatterton is a detailed account of the Q-ship a type of British warship used during World War I to counteract German U-boat attacks. Published in 1917 the book explores the role these deceptively armed vessels played in the naval warfare of the First World War. Q-ships were merchant ships disguised as unarmed cargo vessels designed to lure German submarines into attacking them. Once a U-boat surfaced and approached the Q-ship would reveal its hidden weaponry and engage in combat with the submarine often sinking it. The book delves into the strategic use of Q-ships providing a comprehensive history of their conception deployment and the various tactics they used to trick and fight U-boats. Chatterton offers an in-depth look at the individual ships their crews and the thrilling encounters they had with enemy submarines showcasing the bravery and ingenuity of the sailors involved. The author also discusses the technical aspects of these ships how they were outfitted with concealed guns and designed to appear as easy targets in order to attract enemy submarines into range.