Four Peruvian R-class submarines had previously been finished in Groton, using material from cancelled S-boats salvaged from Fore River.

[9] After three Pacific war patrols, Cuttlefish was relegated to training duties in September 1942, once numerous Gato-class boats became available.

[6] The auxiliary engine was for charging batteries or for increased surface speed via a diesel-electric system providing power to the main electric motors.

As with most V-boats, the main engines proved troublesome, and were replaced in 1937-38 by two Winton GM 16-278 16-cylinder four-cycle diesels, 1,600 hp (1,200 kW) each.

Arriving at New London on 28 July, she conducted experimental torpedo firing, sound training, and other operations for the Submarine School.

Cuttlefish arrived at Pearl Harbor on 16 June and was based there on patrol duty, as well as joining in battle problems and exercises in the Hawaiian area.

She was forced deep to endure four hours of severe depth charging, more of which came her way on 24 May when she challenged three enemy destroyers.

Returning to Pearl Harbor on 20 September 1942, Cuttlefish was ordered to New London, where she served the Submarine School as a training ship from December 1942 to October 1945.