On 3 September 1939, U-47, a German Type VII U-boat, received specific orders as part of Germany's naval strategy at the onset of World War II. The orders were to conduct reconnaissance along the western approaches to the British Isles and to engage enemy merchant shipping, aiming to disrupt supply lines to Britain. U-47 was expected to operate primarily in the North Atlantic, targeting British vessels and reporting on naval activity.

Captain Günther Prien, who commanded U-47, was tasked with gathering intelligence and attacking enemy shipping routes to weaken Britain’s logistical capabilities. This mission was part of a broader German strategy to establish submarine warfare as a key component of their naval operations against Britain.

For further details, you might find additional insights in historical naval records or dedicated military history resources.