I1 Submarine
In January of 1942, the HMNZS Moa and Kiwi detected the movement of the I1 Japanese submarine. Depth charges were dropped and the sub surfaced and a fierce battle ensued. The Kiwi rammed the submarine and damaged it heavily. The captain ran it around on the reef nearby Tambea village where it remains today. You can also dive the Moa near Tulaghi while visiting Solomon Islands.
This submarine, which was almost 100meters long, was converted into a transport ship moving men and armaments throughout the war. After she sunk, the Allies investigated her remains looking for intelligence. Divers found five code books and other important communications along with charts, manuals and the ships log. It has been reported that the code books were instumental in breaking communication codes which ultimately led to closure of the Guadalcanal campaign.
When you dive her today, you can clearly see the damage inflicted by the Kiwi as her remains lay twisted and bent between 10 and 25 meters. While divers cannot penetrate the ship, resident batfish can be seen flitting in and out of the remains.
📌 I1 Submarine, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands
📷 Brandi Mueller
🐟 Spadefish
