The Conning Tower is a separate cylinder located above the control room. From here, the captain directed the submarine during an attack. There are two periscopes located here. One is a search periscope, which has larger optics for better low light conditions. The other is the attack periscope. This periscope has a much thinner upper body, to reduce the wake visible to the target when using it. Also located in the conning tower is the Torpedo Data Computer (TDC). Information gained from periscope observations, such as target speed, bearing, and range is combined with data on the submarines own course and speed, and input into the TDC to produce a firing solution for the torpedoes. The information is then sent to the gyrocompass on board the torpedo, which guides it to the target after firing. A panel in the conning tower contains the firing keys for the forward and after torpedo tubes, allowing them to be fired electrically from here. If this failed, the tubes would be fired locally from the torpedo rooms.

This view of the forward bulkhead of the Conning Tower, showing the main steering (helm) station. Surrounding the helm are motor order telegraphs, used to send signals to the maneuvering room for speed control, and a compass repeater, rudder angle indicator, and knot (speed) meter. The ladder to the right leads to the bridge.