She was to operate as part of the first pack of U-boats in World War II; however, because she left port late, Barten decided to take a shortcut to the U-boat's designated meeting point, southwest of Ireland.
During World War II, she was scheduled to be part of the first group of U-boats; nonetheless, due to her delayed departure from port, Barten opted for an expedited path to the designated rendezvous location, which was southwest of Ireland.