Between the two wars several Navies undertook development programs to implement flotillas of motor torpedo boats capable of carrying out patrol and attack missions. The new engine technologies, compared to First World War versions, provided greater performance and operational efficiency. During the 1930s the German Kriegsmarine developed the famous S-class motor torpedo boats. Between 1939 and 1940 the S-26 series was built and characterised by a forecastle integrated with two 533 mm torpedo tubes. The aesthetic features of the bow were maintained and further improved in subsequent versions. The S38 was one of the most celebrated Schnellboot versions, with almost 100 units produced. They were 35 meters long with a full load displacement of over 100 tons. With its Daimler Benz 12-cylinder engines it was able to reach a maximum speed of 39.5 knots.
