The submarine was powered by two Germaniawerft F46 supercharged four-stroke, six-cylinder diesel engines producing a total of 2,800 to 3,200 metric horsepower (2,060 to 2,350 kW; 2,760 to 3,160 shp) for use while surfaced, two AEG GU 460/8-276 double-acting electric motors producing a total of 750 shaft horsepower (760 PS; 560 kW) for use while submerged.

The boat was capable of operating at depths of up to 230 metres (750 ft).

[2] When submerged, the boat could operate for 75 nautical miles (139 km; 86 mi) at 4 knots (7.4 km/h; 4.6 mph); when surfaced, she could travel 14,700 nautical miles (27,200 km; 16,900 mi) at 10 knots (19 km/h; 12 mph).

U-1059 was fitted with five 53.3 cm (21 in) torpedo tubes (four fitted at the bow and one at the stern), fourteen torpedoes, one 8.8 cm (3.46 in) SK C/35 naval gun, 220 rounds, and various anti-aircraft gun.

[2] While transporting torpedoes to Monsun Gruppe U-boats operating in the Far East, U-1059 was sunk on 19 March 1944 at 13°10′N 33°44′W / 13.167°N 33.733°W / 13.167; -33.733, southwest of the Cape Verde Islands by Grumman TBF Avengers and Grumman F4F Wildcats from the escort carrier USS Block Island.