It was awarded to recognize U-boat crews who had completed three war patrols.

The badge was worn on the lower left side of the uniform and was oval shaped resembling a wreath of laurel leaves.

[3] It was very similar to the original badge with the exception of the imperial crown being replaced with a German Eagle above a swastika, and a more modernized submarine now facing towards the left was used.

Completing two war patrols could be equally dangerous as the U-boat has to endure constant attacks by Allied aircraft and warships.

[5] The U-boat War Badge with Diamonds was instituted by Großadmiral Karl Dönitz after he had received from Grand Admiral Erich Raeder a special solid gold version of the U-boat War Badge in which the wreath as well as the swastika were inlaid with diamonds.