U-49 was a German submarine, or U-boat, that operated during World War II. It was part of the Kriegsmarine, the naval force of Nazi Germany, and was launched in 1940. U-49 was primarily used for reconnaissance and attacking Allied shipping in the Atlantic Ocean. The submarine was equipped with torpedoes and had a crew of around 40 men. U-49 completed several patrols before being sunk in 1941. Its missions contributed to the larger strategy of disrupting supply lines to the Allies, a key aspect of naval warfare during the conflict.