World War II Submarine Found in the Aegean Sea After 81 Years of Disappearance

Underwater explorers in Greece have discovered the wreckage of a British submarine that sank during World War II. The HMS Trooper (designated N91) disappeared in October 1943 during a secret mission, and since then, all 64 crew members on board were presumed dead, likely due to a German attack.

The discovery was led by Planet Blue, a company specializing in underwater searches. According to Kostas Thoctarides, the company’s founder, the wreck was finally located on October 3rd, in international waters north of Donoussa Island, in the Icaria Sea, a region known for its challenging navigation conditions.

“The Icaria Sea is one of the most difficult to navigate, with strong winds, large waves, and fast underwater currents,” Thoctarides explained to Live Science. Despite these difficulties, the team persisted and successfully found the lost submarine.

Location Process

The search for the submarine was long and complex. The team used limited historical records and advanced technologies, such as onboard sonar, to map the seafloor. Additionally, the “Super Achille,” a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), was used to inspect the wreck in detail.

Even with all the technology at their disposal, it took 15 expeditions before the wreckage was finally discovered. The submarine, heavily damaged, is split into three parts on the seabed: the bow, midsection, and stern, and was identified using the original construction plans of the vessel.

This discovery brings an important chapter of naval history from World War II back to light and serves as a memorial for the crew of the HMS Trooper, who were lost 81 years ago.

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