Recently, the remains of a World War II-era submarine have been discovered off the coast of Norway. The vessel, confirmed to be the HMS Thistle, was sunk by a German submarine in April 1940, just seven months after the war began. The wreck, which had initially been thought to be that of the HMS Oxley, was found more than 500 feet below the ocean’s surface. It took several months of research and consultation with naval experts before the wreck was officially identified as the HMS Thistle. The British Royal Navy, which maintains ownership rights over the underwater grave, will have the final say on confirming the submarine’s identity.
Table of Contents
Background
In recent years, maritime researchers made a remarkable discovery off the coast of Norway: the wreck of a World War II-era submarine. The submarine, later confirmed to be the HMS Thistle, had been lost for over 80 years. It was torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine in April 1940, just seven months after the war began.
Discovery of the Wreck
During a routine cruise, the crew of a Norwegian research vessel noticed peculiarities on their map that piqued their curiosity. Uncertain whether these abnormalities were related to seafloor geology or something else, they decided to investigate further. The crew established a research station and used an underwater camera to explore the area. To their astonishment, they discovered the remains of a submarine sitting more than 500 feet beneath the ocean’s surface near Rogaland, Norway.
Confirmation of Identity
Due to the unique circumstances surrounding the discovery, the researchers consulted with both the Norwegian and British navies to confirm the identity of the submarine. They initially had two possibilities: the HMS Oxley, which was accidentally sunk by another British submarine just seven days into World War II, or the HMS Thistle, which was hit by a German submarine in April 1940. After analyzing historic information and studying photos of the wreck, experts concluded that it was likely the HMS Thistle. However, further examination and consultation with the Royal Navy were required to establish a definitive identification.
Consultation with Navies
To ensure accuracy and gather additional information, the Norwegian researchers sought input from both the Norwegian and British navies. Their collaboration was crucial in confirming the identity of the submarine. Although the historic information initially suggested that the wreck might be that of the HMS Oxley, offshore submarine experts determined that the wreck was more likely to be the HMS Thistle. This collaboration and consultation process helped solidify the identification.
Historic Information
The HMS Thistle, now confirmed to be the submarine wreck, had a tragic history. It was part of the British Royal Navy’s fleet during World War II. In April 1940, just a few months after the war had begun, it was hit by a German submarine, resulting in the loss of all 53 crew members. The discovery of the wreck provides an opportunity to revisit this significant event in naval history and learn more about the submarine’s role in the war.
Detailed Examination
In order to gather more information about the wreck and its condition, a thorough examination was conducted. Researchers carefully analyzed the photos and footage taken during the initial discovery to identify specific details that would conclusively establish the wreck as the HMS Thistle. Although the initial photos showed limited details, further examination and analysis led the experts to a high degree of certainty regarding the wreck’s identity.
Second Expedition
To confirm their initial assessment, the researchers embarked on a second expedition to the site in October. This time, they were able to pass by the wreck again and conduct a closer inspection. The expedition’s findings provided further confirmation that the wreck was indeed that of the HMS Thistle. This confirmation was a significant step in the process of identifying and documenting the long-lost submarine.
Ownership and Identification
It is important to note that, while the wreck has been confirmed to be the HMS Thistle, the British Royal Navy retains ownership rights over the submarine’s resting place. As such, the final say in identifying the wreck and determining its historical significance lies with the Royal Navy. Their participation and expertise will play a crucial role in accurately verifying and documenting the submarine’s identity.
The Royal Navy
The Royal Navy’s role in the identification process cannot be overstated. As the rightful owners of the wreck, they possess valuable historical records and expertise that will contribute to the comprehensive understanding of the HMS Thistle’s significance. Their collaboration with the Norwegian researchers and involvement in the documentation process will ensure that the wreck’s story is preserved accurately and respectfully.
Conclusion
The discovery of the HMS Thistle, a World War II-era submarine, off the coast of Norway is a momentous find. The meticulous examination and consultation process with the Norwegian and British navies have conclusively confirmed its identity. The wreck is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the submarine’s crew, who perished during its sinking. The collaboration between researchers and the Royal Navy will provide an invaluable opportunity to delve deeper into the submarine’s history and contribute to our understanding of World War II naval operations. The preservation and documentation of this wreck will ensure that its story is remembered and honored for future generations.