The warships of the World War II era German Navy are among the most popular subject in naval history with an almost uncountable number of books devoted to them. However, for a concise but authoritative summary of the design history and careers of the major surface ships it is difficult to beat a series of six volumes written by Gerhard Koop and illustrated by Klaus-Peter Schmolke. Each contains an account of the development of a particular class, a detailed description of the ships, with full technical details, and an outline of their service, heavily illustrated with plans, battle maps and a substantial collection of photographs.
All the 40 or so German destroyers that saw service during the war are detailed in this book, including captured ships. Chapters range from their design and development, armament and machinery, to appearance differences, camouflage schemes and modifications. It also covers their careers and the many actions they fought, all illustrated with plans, technical drawings, maps, and a comprehensive gallery of photographs.