“Kronprinz” WWI German Battleship

Battleship “Kronprinz” belonged to “König” class of the Kaiser German Navy of WWI period. “Kronprinz” was laid down at Germania-Werft in Kiel 07.1912, launched 21.02.1914 and commissioned 08.11.1914.

Battleships of “König” class were mighty vessels, excellently geared for North Sea conditions. The four sisterships formed the 3rd Squadron of Open Sea Navy (Hochseeflotte). The 3rd Squadron of Battleships took part in all battle operations of Open Sea Navy after the WWI started. One of the sorties caused the Battle of Jutland May 31 – June 1, 1916, – the greatest and fierce sea battle of WWI. British battleships “Warspite”, ”Valiant” and “Malaya” were severely damaged by the fire of the 3rd Squadron of Battleships.

After the armistice was signed the German Navy was interned by alliances at Scapa-Flow, where almost all vessels, including all 4 “König” sisterships, were scuttled by their crews June 21, 1919.