German submarine U-490

German submarine U-490 was a Type XIV supply and replenishment U-boat ("Milchkuh") of the Nazi German Kriegsmarine during World War II.

Her keel was laid down on 21 February 1942, by Germaniawerft of Kiel as 'werk' 559. She was launched on 24 December 1942 and commissioned on 27 March 1943, with Leutnant zur See Wilhelm Gerlach in command. He remained in command throughout the boat's short career.

The U-boat's service life commenced with the 4th U-boat Flotilla from 27 March 1943 to 31 March 1944 (for training). She then served, for operations, with the 12th flotilla.

Operational career
U-490's first patrol began with her departure from Kiel on 4 May 1944. She headed for the Atlantic by way of the so-called Faeroes Gap between Iceland and the Faeroe Islands, north of the British Isles.

Although as a supply boat, she avoided combat, she was lost on her first patrol when on 12 June, she was attacked in mid-ocean by the escort carrier USS Croatan and the destroyers USS Frost, Huse and Inch. There were 60 survivors (no casualties).