The Kriegsmarine was the navy of Nazi Germany from 1935 until 1945. It played a crucial role during World War II, focusing on submarine warfare and surface fleet operations. The navy aimed to challenge the naval supremacy of the Royal Navy and protect German maritime interests. The Kriegsmarine was known for its U-boat campaigns, which targeted Allied shipping in the Atlantic Ocean. Notable figures in the navy included Karl Dönitz, who later became the last president of Germany. The Kriegsmarine ultimately faced significant losses and was dissolved after Germany's defeat in 1945.