Vladimir Konovalov

Who was Vladimir Konovalov?

Rear Admiral Vladimir Konstantinovich Konovalov, Владимир Константинович Коновалов was a Soviet Navy distinguished submarine commander during World War II.

Born to a Jewish family in the village of Nadiyne, His family moved to Donetsk when he was a child. He studied at the Donetsk National Technical University. He joined the Soviet Navy in 1932 and graduated from the Frunze Military Academy in 1936. After graduation he served on submarines in the Black Sea Fleet. Beginning in October 1940 he transferred to the Baltic Fleet and was appointed second in command of the Soviet submarine L-3, and he was named her commander in March 1943.

The L-3 was a minelayer submarine, but it was also engaged in offensive operations against German shipping during World War II, ultimately making 11 torpedo attacks under Konovalov's command.

On April 16, 1945, Konovalov sank the German ship Goya, carrying civilians and military personnel fleeing from the Eastern Front. At least 6,000 people drowned, with only 165 people saved. It was one of the worst maritime disasters ever. According to some versions, the L-3 also might have sunk a small 1411 GRT ship on January 31, 1945, but it is not confirmed.