SM UC-96

SM UC-96 was a German Type UC II minelaying submarine or U-boat in the German Imperial Navy (Kaiserliche Marine) during World War I. She was commissioned on 26 July 1917.

UC-96 was primarily used for laying mines in enemy waters, contributing to the Allied war effort's disruption. Mines laid by UC-boats were responsible for the sinking or damaging of numerous Allied and neutral ships.

During her service, UC-96 was commanded by Oberleutnant zur See Heinrich Jeß. She conducted multiple patrols, laying mines off the coasts of France and the United Kingdom.

UC-96 sank several ships during her operational history, including merchant vessels and potentially some naval auxiliaries. Records of exact tonnage and specific vessel identifications can be found in historical naval archives.

UC-96 was sunk on 18 September 1918 in the English Channel at 50°39′N 0°58′E by depth charges from HMS Osprey. There were no survivors.

The wreck of UC-96 is located in the English Channel and has been the subject of archaeological survey and research. It serves as a reminder of the U-boat warfare that characterized World War I.