SMS Markgraf

SMS Markgraf was one of four battleships of the König class built for the German Imperial Navy. Launched on 4 June 1913 and commissioned into the High Seas Fleet on 1 October 1914, she was named after the royal title of Markgraf (Margrave). The ship was armed with ten 30.5-centimeter (12.0 in) guns in five twin turrets and could steam at a top speed of 21 knots (39 km/h; 24 mph).

Design

SMS Markgraf was 175.4 meters (575 ft) long overall and had a beam of 29.5 m (97 ft) and a draft of 9.19 m (30.2 ft) forward. She was powered by three sets of steam turbines, which drove three propeller shafts. The ship's top speed was 21 knots (39 km/h; 24 mph), and she had a range of 8,000 nautical miles (15,000 km; 9,200 mi) at a cruising speed of 12 knots (22 km/h; 14 mph).

Service History

During World War I, SMS Markgraf served in the High Seas Fleet, participating in several fleet operations. She fought in the Battle of Jutland on 31 May – 1 June 1916, where she was hit by at least seven heavy-caliber shells. After the war, she was interned at Scapa Flow and scuttled on 21 June 1919.

Post-war

The wreck of SMS Markgraf is still at Scapa Flow. It is a popular site for divers, although it is one of the more challenging dives in the area due to the depth of the water and the strong currents.

See also

• List of battleships of Germany
• Scuttling of the German fleet in Scapa Flow