[3] The hull contained three compartments separated by partial strength watertight bulkheads:[4] The two diesel engines were clutched to shafts that turned electric motors that could also be used as generators for charging the batteries.

The small conning tower fairwater (also known as a sail) initially precluded any sort of bridge structure for surface cruising.

For extended surface runs, a temporary piping-and-canvas structure was erected to give the topside watchstanders some protection from the elements.

In the stowed position, the submarine appears to have no torpedo tubes, as the holes in the cap are covered by the bow stem.

With the exception of the L-class and the one-off M-1, this feature remained standard for submarines designed by the Electric Boat Company through the O-class, after which it was replaced with individual muzzle doors faired with shutters that remain standard through the modern day.