Günther Lütjens (25 May 1889 – 27 May 1941) was a German Admiral whose military service spanned almost 30 years. Lütjens is best known for his actions during World War II, primarily his service as admiral of the squadron comprising Bismarck and her consort, Prinz Eugen, during the Operation Rheinübung sortie.

Günther Lütjens was born in Wiesbaden and entered the Imperial German Navy (Kaiserliche Marine) in 1907. He spent his initial years on Freya. After receiving his commission, he served onboard Elsass until 1910, and from 1910-1913 aboard König Wilhelm.

From 1913 until the end of World War I, Lütjens was commander of torpedo boats along the Flemish coast, leading raids against Dunkirk. On 24 May 1917, Lütjens was promoted to Kapitänleutnant.

After the war, he worked as an officer at the Warnemünde Ship Transportation Agency from 1918 until 1921, when he returned to the newly-reorganized German Navy, by that time with the rank of Commander. Lütjens served until 1925 in the 3rd Torpedo Boat Flotilla and eventually became its commanding officer.