In a remarkable discovery, the wreckage of a US Navy destroyer lost during World War II has been identified in the depths off Japan's coast. The find sheds new light on a crucial chapter of Pacific War history.
A Relic of War Resurfaces
The vessel, identified as the USS Johnston, was located at a depth exceeding 6,000 metres in the Philippine Sea. This makes it one of the deepest shipwreck discoveries ever recorded.
The Final Battle
The destroyer met its fate during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944, considered one of history's largest naval engagements. Outgunned but undaunted, the Johnston famously charged against a superior Japanese force to protect American landing operations.
Technological Triumph
Advanced deep-sea exploration technology made this discovery possible. A team from Caladan Oceanic utilised state-of-the-art submersibles to locate and document the wreck with unprecedented clarity.
Preserving History
The wreck's condition offers archaeologists valuable insights into naval warfare tactics and ship construction during this pivotal period. The site will be treated as a war grave, respecting the 186 crew members who perished with the ship.
