The class was built exclusively at Barrow and the first eight submarines were ordered in 1941. Large numbers were planned, and 42 V boats were ordered between 1941 and 1943. However, with the capitulation of Italy in 1943, the need for coastal submarines in the Mediterranean decreased and 20 of the class were subsequently cancelled when the end to hostilities in Europe seemed imminent.
None of the 22 V Class submarines built were lost during the war, and the lead ship, HMS Venturer, distinguished herself by. sinking two German submarines, one in November 1944, the other in February 1945. Venturer was transferred to the Royal Netherlands Navy following the war, and many other V Class vessels served with Allied navies (particularly Greece, Norway and Free France) during and after the conflict. The last of the
