U-47 was a German submarine, or U-boat, that operated during World War II. Commissioned in 1938, it was part of the Kriegsmarine, the naval force of Nazi Germany. U-47 is best known for its successful attack on the British battleship HMS Royal Oak in 1939, which marked a significant early victory for the German Navy. Under the command of Günther Prien, U-47 sank numerous ships during its service. The submarine was eventually lost in March 1941, likely due to depth charge attacks by British forces. Its legacy remains a notable part of submarine warfare history.