Sharks of Steel

Spectacular color photographs and a lively text tell the story of the submarine in this companion volume to a four-part documentary television series produced by the Discovery Channel. Generally following the program's format, the book significantly amplifies the subject, both for longtime fans and for those whose interest in submarines has been piqued by recent events. The pictures and commentary provided here vividly capture the feel of being on board and underwater and offer a rare insider's view of the challenges, pressures, and excitement unique to submariners. Readers join a dangerous World War II patrol in the Pacific, a modern-day cruise to secret destinations, and an unprecedented tour of the world's largest submarine, a Russian "Typhoon," seen by few Westerners.
The photography is the work of two masters of the craft: Yogi Kaufman, a professional photographer and retired admiral in the U.S. Navy who brings nearly forty years of submarine experience to the project, and his son, Steve Kaufman, a noted outdoor photographer who has been shooting images of submarines and their crews periodically over the past four years. Contributing a historical perspective to the book is Paul Stillwell, a naval historian and former naval officer who has demonstrated his feel for ships and their men in previous books. In addition to the Kaufman's photographs there are several rarely seen World War II color photos by Edward Steichen and paintings of the early days of submarine warfare.
The submarine's development, its successes in various conflicts since its invention, the influence of Admiral Rickover and others on its development, and its effectiveness as an instrument of national policy are all high-lighted in this book. But the spotlight is centered squarely on the crews, and their selection, training, and performance received deserved attention.