Japanese mini-sub sunk during Pearl Harbor attack explored

On the 75th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941 two Japanese mini submarines were explored with a robotic vehicle. The exploration of the sunken war vessels was live-streamed.

Japanese mini-submarine (by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

The wrecks of Japanese miniature submarines were explored by United States’ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s ship the Okeanos Explorer which dispatched a robotic vehicle. The wrecks were the target of first shots fired by the US in World War II.

Crack in the hull (by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

On the morning of December 7, 1941, USS Ward fired at one mini-sub after it was spotted partially submerged and attempting to enter the harbour. Ninety minutes later the aerial attack by the Japanese began.

The propeller of the sub (by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

Experts were able to observe the aft ends of the torpedo tubes and mechanisms which are visible through the gap at flange. The researchers stated that the sight was a reminder of not only the deadly intent of the mission, but also its failure.

Mini submarine and torpedoes (by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

(after Fox News & National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

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