SMS G39

SMS G39 was a 1913 Type Large [Torpedo Boat] of the Imperial German Navy during World War I, and the 15th ship of its class.

Construction

Built by Germaniawerft in Kiel, Germany, she was commissioned in August 1915. The "G" in G39 refers to the shipyard at which she was constructed.

G39 was assigned to the High Seas Fleet of the Kaiserliche Marine when she participated in the Battle of Jutland. She served as the leader of the First Torpedo Boat Flotilla in this action under the command of Commander Conrad Albrecht. Admiral Hipper transferred from to G39 during the Battle of Jutland prior to his transfer to the.
After the end of hostilities, G39, as a part of the 1st Torpedo Half Flotilla under Kapitänleutnant Reinhold Henrici, was interned at Scapa Flow and scuttled.
One of the crew members on her last voyage was Leopold Bürkner, who later became head of foreign affairs intelligence during the Third Reich. He was interned until 29 January 1920.
The boat was salvaged by Ernest Cox on 3 July 1925.