British submarine HMS TROOPER found at great depth in the Icarian Sea: WWII Wreck Discovered After more than 80 Years.
The HMS Trooper’s Final Journey
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The HMS Trooper, a T-class submarine of the Royal Navy, met its tragic end in October 1943 whilst on a covert mission in the Aegean Sea. For 81 years, the fate of this vessel and its brave crew remained a mystery until a recent discovery brought closure to decades of uncertainty.
The submarine’s wreckage was found in the Icarian Sea at an astounding depth of 253 metres. This remarkable find was made possible by the tireless efforts of a team of underwater researchers led by Kostas Thoctarides. The HMS Trooper is the eighth sunken submarine uncovered by this dedicated group, marking a significant contribution to naval history and remembrance.
The wreck’s condition provides crucial insights into the submarine’s final moments. The 84-metre-long vessel lies in three distinct sections – bow, midship, and stern – indicating a violent sinking likely caused by a mine explosion. This discovery not only solves a long-standing mystery but also offers a sense of closure for the families of the 64 crew members who perished.
The HMS Trooper’s last mission took place during a tumultuous period in World War II. The Italian surrender on 8th September 1943 had dramatically altered the strategic landscape in the Aegean, leading to increased naval activity and danger for all vessels in the region.
The submarine’s crew included servicemen from various backgrounds, including 22-year-old Australian volunteer Sub-Lieutenant John Stuart Ryder. Their sacrifice underscores the international nature of the war effort and the shared loss felt across nations.
It’s important to note that the wreck site is considered a maritime war grave, and as such, has been treated with the utmost respect during the investigation. No disturbance or intervention of any kind was made to the wreckage, preserving the final resting place of these brave sailors.
The discovery of the HMS Trooper has been met with emotion and gratitude from those connected to its history. George Malcolmson, former Archive Manager at the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, expressed his appreciation for the team’s work in solving this 81-year-old mystery. He noted that knowing the location of the submarine’s final resting place would provide closure for surviving relatives and descendants of the crew.
Richard Wraith, a Royal Navy Captain CBE and son of the Trooper’s commander, shared his long-standing awareness of the research team’s persistent efforts. He expressed hope that the definitive location of the Trooper would serve as a reference point for families of the lost crew members, aiding in the remembrance of their loved ones.
The discovery of the HMS Trooper serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II and the enduring impact of such losses on families and nations. It also highlights the importance of ongoing historical research and the role of advanced underwater exploration techniques in uncovering the secrets of the past.
Common Queries
What led to the sinking of a Royal Navy submarine in World War II?
The HMS TROOPER disappeared in October 1943 during a covert mission in the Aegean Sea. Evidence suggests it likely struck a German EMF mine containing 350 kg of Hexanite. The submarine was found in three separate sections, pointing to a catastrophic explosion.
What are the key features of T class submarines used by the British Navy?
T class submarines were built for long-range patrols. They had:
- Diesel-electric propulsion
- Surface displacement of about 1,300 tons
- Length of around 84 metres
- Crew of about 60 officers and ratings
- Armament including deck gun and torpedo tubes
How are human remains handled in recovered submarine wrecks?
When human remains are found in submarine wrecks:
- The site is treated as a war grave
- Remains are left undisturbed if possible
- Any recovery is done with utmost respect
- Families of the crew are notified
- Proper burial at sea may be arranged
What is the process for identifying World War II submarines and crew after discovery?
- Gather historical records and mission logs
- Compare wreck location to last known position
- Examine hull markings and distinctive features
- Analyse any visible serial numbers or equipment
- Review crew lists and compare to any personal effects found
- Consult naval historians and experts
- Use DNA testing if remains are recovered
What are some notable incidents involving British submarines in World War II?
- HMS Thetis sank during sea trials in 1939, with significant loss of life
- HMS Truant sank the German cruiser Karlsruhe in 1940
- HMS Triumph conducted daring raids in the Mediterranean
- HMS Turbulent sank over 90,000 tons of Axis shipping before being lost in 1943
How does finding sunken wartime submarines affect historical and naval research?
Discoveries of submarines like HMS TROOPER provide:
- New information on naval tactics and technology
- Insight into specific wartime operations
- Closure for families of lost crew members
- Opportunities to study long-term effects of submersion on materials
- Validation or correction of historical records
- Improved understanding of underwater archaeology techniques
