KMS Konigsberg of
the K class Cruisers was built at Wilhelmshaven navy yard. and laid down on
the 12th April 1926 , launched 26th march 1927 and completed 17th April
1929. These were the first cruisers of the German navy to incorporate
electric welding technique. and the new triple 5.9 inch (150mm) gun
turret. at the outbreak of world war two, KMS Konigsberg
undertook mine laying duties in the North sea and became the flagship of the
Senior Officer of the scouting Forces. on the 9th April 1904
during the Norwegian campaign she joined Task Force 3 for the invasion of
Bergen. and was damaged by shore based artillery, during the landing
operations. she remained at Bergen as part of the local defense
forces. while the rest of task force 3 returned to Germany. While at Bergen
she was attacked by British Fleet Air Arm Skuas on the 10th April
1940. which started major fires onboard she was put out of action.
In 1943 the wreck was re flotted and dry docked, but capsized on the 22nd September
1944 and abandoned and finally broken up.
Displacement: 6650
tons. 8130 tons deep load. Speed: 32 knots, Range 5,200 miles
at 19 knots. Compliment 820 - 850. Armament: Nine
5.9 inch (150mm) guns in (3 x 3) Six 3.5 inch ( 88mm)
Eight 37mm AA (4 x 2 ) twelve 21 inch Torpedo Tubes ( 4 x 3 ) plus 2
aircraft.
