Rare, Almost Intact German WWII Torpedo Boat Discovered in Ionian Sea

A remarkable discovery has been made in the Ionian Sea off the coast of Preveza, Greece, where a rare German World War II torpedo boat has been found almost entirely intact. The vessel, identified as the Kriegsmarine's LS 6 (Leichte Schnellboot 6), rests at a depth of 96 meters, 83 years after its sinking in September 1943.

This find is particularly significant as the LS 6 is believed to be the world's only known surviving example of its specific class. Its near-perfect preservation offers an unprecedented glimpse into naval technology of the era. The discovery was made by the AegeanTec team using advanced closed-circuit diving techniques, following years of historical and underwater research.

The research, initiated in 2013 based on clues from German war archives about the boat's last known location, involved meticulous efforts to pinpoint the wreck. The team identified the vessel by its distinctive features, including Junkers Jumo engines, its dimensions, the aluminum hull construction, and a towing cable still attached to the bow.

The LS 6 and its sister ship, LS 5, were brought to Greece for operations in the Aegean following Italy's surrender. The LS 6 sustained severe damage during a British air raid in Igoumenitsa. While being towed to Piraeus for repairs, its aluminum hull suffered further stress, leading to water ingress and its eventual sinking off Preveza. The discovery is considered highly valuable for historical and archaeological research.

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It was just a clue but it was enough.