The wreckage from the maritime disaster that killed more Australians than any other has been found, more than 80 years on.
The shipwreck of the Montevideo Maru was found more than 4000m below the surface of the ocean off the coast of the Philippines.
The wreck was found in a collaboration between Australian maritime archaeology group Silentworld Foundation, and Dutch deep-sea surveyors Fugro.
The search for the vessel began on April 6, and the wreck was sighting 12 days later.
In subsequent days, the searchers verified the wreck was the missing ship.
“The discovery of the Montevideo Maru closes a terrible chapter in Australian military and maritime history,” Silentworld’s director John Mullen said.
“Families waited years for news of their missing loved ones, before learning of the tragic outcome of the sinking.
“Some never fully came to accept that their loved ones were among the victims.
“Today, by finding the vessel, we hope to bring closure to the many families devastated by this terrible disaster.”
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The prisoners-of-war were being transported to Hainan in occupied China on the Montevideo Maru.
Unaware of who was aboard, the USS Sturgeon torpedoed the vessel. The ship took just 11 minutes to sink.
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The single shipwreck killed twice as many Australians as died in the entirety of the Vietnam War.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed the discovery.
“At long last, the resting place of the lost souls of the Montevideo Maru has been found,” he said.
“We hope today’s news brings a measure of comfort to loved ones who have kept a long vigil.”
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