The Type 140 Jaguar-class fast attack craft is an evolution of the German torpedo boats (E-boats) of World War II.

Then the Jaguar-class boats were replaced in service with the Bundesmarine by the Tiger class.

The Jaguar-class boats were relatively well suited for high sea action.

In NATO strategy it was their duty to intercept landing operations in the Baltic Sea, prevent transfers of ships of the Soviet Union and to keep the transatlantic supply lines open through the North Sea.

The Seeadler class differs from the Type 140 only in the model of engine.