List of shipwrecks in February 1944

The list of shipwrecks in February 1944 includes ships sunk, foundered, grounded, or otherwise lost during February 1944.

This is a dynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help by adding missing items with reliable sources.

1 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 1 February 1944
Ship State Description
Agia Paraskevi  Greece World War II: The sailing ship (80 GRT) was rammed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea 12 nautical miles (22 km) north east of Soueida, Syria by U-453 ( Kriegsmarine). There were no casualties.[1]
Edward Bates  United States World War II: The Liberty ship was torpedoed and damaged in the Mediterranean Sea off Ténès, Algeria (36°38′N 0°50′E / 36.633°N 0.833°E / 36.633; 0.833) by Luftwaffe aircraft. She was taken in tow but later sank. One crew was killed. There were 90 survivors.[2][3]
Himli Lebanon World War II: The sailing ship (67 GRT) was rammed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea 8 nautical miles (15 km) off Soueida by U-453 ( Kriegsmarine). All crew survived.[4]
I-171  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Kaidai-class submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Green Island, New Guinea (05°37′S 154°14′E / 5.617°S 154.233°E / -5.617; 154.233) by USS Guest and USS Hudson (both  United States Navy) with the loss of all 91 crew.[5][6]
Nanka Maru  Japan World War II: Convoy A: The transport was torpedoed and sunk near Halmahera, Maluku Islands by USS Hake ( United States Navy). 258 Formosa Giyu Corps troops, six crewmen and one gunner died.[7][8]
Ro-39  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Kaichū type submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Wotje(09°24′N 170°32′E / 9.400°N 170.533°E / 9.400; 170.533) by USS Walker ( United States Navy) with the loss of all 70 hands.[9]
Salem Lebanon World War II: The sailing ship (81 GRT) was rammed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea 30 nautical miles (56 km; 35 mi) off Soueida by U-453 ( Kriegsmarine). All crew survived.[10]
Tacoma Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Convoy A: The Tacoma Maru-class transport was torpedoed and sunk near Halmahera (1°35′N 128°58′E / 1.583°N 128.967°E / 1.583; 128.967) by USS Hake ( United States Navy). Two crewmen were killed.[11][12]
Toei Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Convoy SO-805: The Toei Maru-class transport (4,004 GRT 1937) was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Palau (04°24′S 143°15′E / 4.400°S 143.250°E / -4.400; 143.250) by USS Seahorse ( United States Navy). Fifty-six crewmen were killed.[13][14]
UJ 1702  Kriegsmarine World War II: The MOB-FD-class naval trawler/submarine chaser was bombed and sunk in the North Sea west of Stadlandet, Norway by British aircraft.[15]
UJ 2124 Elaki  Kriegsmarine World War II: The auxiliary submarine chaser was sunk west of Leros, Greece by North American B-25G Mitchell aircraft of the United States' 379th Bombardment Squadron, 310th Bombardment Group. Three crew were killed. 18 survivors (4 seriously injured and 3 lightly wounded) were rescued by UJ 2151 and UJ 2153 (both  Kriegsmarine).[15][16][17]
Umikaze  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Shiratsuyu-class destroyer was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Truk, South Seas Mandate by USS Guardfish ( United States Navy) with the loss of 50 of her 265 crew.
Valencia  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and severely damaged off Stadlandet by British aircraft. She was declared a total loss.[15] She was repaired post-war, and entered Norwegian service in 1948 as Skottland.[18]

2 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 2 February 1944
Ship State Description
Charlotte Schliemann  Kriegsmarine World War II: The supply ship was scuttled in the Indian Ocean (23°23′S 74°37′E / 23.383°S 74.617°E / -23.383; 74.617) to avoid capture by HMS Relentless ( Royal Navy). The crew were rescued by U-532 ( Kriegsmarine).[19][20]
HMS LCI(S)-2511  Royal Navy The landing craft, infantry (small) (63/110 t, 1943) was wrecked at Portslade, Sussex.[21]
Leda  Kriegsmarine World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Aegean Sea off Amorgos, Greece by British aircraft.[15]
Miriam  United Kingdom The cargo ship ran aground off Cape Otranto, Greece. She was a total loss.[22]
Toyo Maru No.5  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk off Kushimoto, Japan (33°29′N 135°59′E / 33.483°N 135.983°E / 33.483; 135.983) by USS Plunger ( United States Navy). 32 crew were killed.[23][24]
Toyo Maru No.8  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk off Kushimoto, Japan (33°29′N 135°59′E / 33.483°N 135.983°E / 33.483; 135.983) by USS Plunger ( United States Navy). 15 crew were killed.[23][24]
V 1702 Unitas III  Kriegsmarine The Vorpostenboot collided with U-987 ( Kriegsmarine) and sank in the Baltic Sea.[15]
Yahiya Syria Syria World War II: The sailing ship (64 GRT) was rammed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea six nautical miles (11 km) off Cape Basit by U-453 ( Kriegsmarine). All crew survived.[25]

3 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 3 February 1944
Ship State Description
Ariake Maru  Japan World War II: Convoy HI-30: The Standard Wartime Type 1TM oiler was torpedoed and sunk in the East China Sea 200 nautical miles (370 km) south east of Shanghai (28°32′N 124°04′E / 28.533°N 124.067°E / 28.533; 124.067) by USS Tambor ( United States Navy). Nineteen passengers and 28 crewmen were killed.[26][27]
Chung Cheng  China World War II: The Liberty ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Gulf of Aden (13°54′N 54°30′E / 13.900°N 54.500°E / 13.900; 54.500) by U-188 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of twenty of her 71 crew. Survivors were rescued by a British merchant ship.[28][29]
Goyo Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Convoy HI-30: The Goyo Maru-class auxiliary oiler was torpedoed and damaged in the East China Sea 200 nautical miles (370 km) south east of Shanghai (28°32′N 124°04′E / 28.533°N 124.067°E / 28.533; 124.067) by USS Tambor ( United States Navy) and was abandoned. She sank sometime between 3 and 5 February at 28°44′N 123°38′E / 28.733°N 123.633°E / 28.733; 123.633. Three passengers and fifteen crewmen were killed.[30]
M 18  Kriegsmarine World War II: The minesweeper was bombed and severely damaged in a raid on Wilhelmshaven by the United States Eighth Air Force.[15]
M 29  Kriegsmarine World War II: The minesweeper was bombed and severely damaged in a raid on Wilhelmshaven by the United States Eighth Air Force.[15]
Masfjord  Norway The coaster (193 GRT, 1907) ran aground at Masfjordnes, Hordaland in a storm. She capsized and sank with the loss of eleven lives.[31]
Monte Pascoal  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Monte-class ocean liner, being used as an accommodation ship was bombed and sunk at Wilhelmshaven by United States Eighth Air Force aircraft. She was raised in May 1944,[32] and temporary repairs were carried out. She was later scuttled.[33]
Nichiai Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off New Hanover Island, New Guinea (3°00′S 160°10′E / 3.000°S 160.167°E / -3.000; 160.167) by Consolidated B-24 Liberator aircraft of the United States Navy and North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force.[15][34]
RA 15  Kriegsmarine World War II: The minesweeper was sunk at Svendborg, Denmark by Danish saboteurs.[15]

4 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 4 February 1944
Ship State Description
I-175  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Type B submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off the Marshall Islands (06°48′N 168°08′E / 6.800°N 168.133°E / 6.800; 168.133) by USS Charrette and USS Fair (both  United States Navy) with the loss of all 100 crew.[35][36]
SG 18  Kriegsmarine World War II: The anti-aircraft corvette was bombed and sunk at Toulon, Var by Allied aircraft.[15][37]
U-854  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type IXC/40 submarine struck a mine and sank in the Baltic Sea north of Swinemünde, Pomerania (54°44′N 14°16′E / 54.733°N 14.267°E / 54.733; 14.267) with the loss of 51 of her 58 crew.[38]
Vautour  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Aigle-class destroyer was bombed and sunk at Toulon by Allied aircraft.[15]

5 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 5 February 1944
Ship State Description
Asahi Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy The Asahi Maru-class auxiliary transport ship was damaged in a collision with Menju Maru ( Japan) in the Inland Sea west of Ushijima 1.25 nautical miles (2.32 km; 1.44 mi) off Bizan Seto (34°21′N 133°46′E / 34.350°N 133.767°E / 34.350; 133.767) and was beached. All aboard were rescued. She broke in two on 24 February and was declared a total loss. The vessel's cargo was salvaged at the end of February. The wreck was scrapped in December 1949.[39][40]
Koryo Maru No. 2  Japan World War II: The coaster was torpedoed and sunk in the Strait of Malacca off Penang, Malaya by HMS Stonehenge ( Royal Navy).[15]
Lusan Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea off Swatow, China by Consolidated B-24 Liberator and North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the United States Fourteenth Air Force.[15]
M 156  Kriegsmarine World War II: The minesweeper was damaged in a battle with HMS Brissenden, HMS Talybont, HMS Tanatside and HMS Wensleydale (all  Royal Navy) and was beached at Aber Wrac'h, Finistère, France. She was then destroyed the next day by Hawker Typhoon aircraft of 266 Squadron, Royal Air Force. Seven crew were killed.[15][41][42]
Radbod  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Selbervik, Norway by British aircraft.[15]
Rozan Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The auxiliary gunboat was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea off Swatow by Consolidated B-24 Liberator and North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the United States Fourteenth Air Force.[15]
Seikyo Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea off Swatow by Consolidated B-24 Liberator and North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the United States Fourteenth Air Force.[15]
Strabon  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was scuttled at Toulon, Var, France. She was refloated on 2 June 1945. She was condemned in December 1947 and subsequently scrapped.[43]
Taishin Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean by USS Flasher ( United States Navy).[15]
Tristan  Germany World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the Irben Strait.[44]

6 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 6 February 1944
Ship State Description
Grundsee  Germany World War II: The coaster struck a mine and sank in the Irben Strait.[44]
Kaiyu Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Wewak, New Guinea by Douglas A-20 Havoc, North American B-25 Mitchell and Curtiss P-40 Warhawk aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force.[15]
Takegiku Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Wewak by Douglas A-20 Havoc, North American B-25 Mitchell and Curtiss P-40 Warhawk aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force.[15]
Takenoura Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy The auxiliary guard boat was lost on this date.
Tatsumi Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Wewak by Douglas A-20 Havoc, North American B-25 Mitchell and Curtiss P-40 Warhawk aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force.[15]
U-177  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type IXD2 submarine was depth charged and sunk in the South Atlantic west of Ascension Island (10°35′S 25°15′W / 10.583°S 25.250°W / -10.583; -25.250) by a Consolidated PB4Y Liberator aircraft of the United States Navy with the loss of 50 of her 65 crew. Survivors were rescued by USS Omaha ( United States Navy).
VMV-12  Merivoimat World War II: Continuation War: The VMV-8-class patrol boat was sunk at Helsinki by Soviet aircraft.[45]

7 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 7 February 1944
Ship State Description
Freidig  Norway World War II: Convoy EN 342: The cargo ship (1,333 GRT, 1903) foundered in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Wrath, Sutherland, United Kingdom after her cargo of rye shifted. Twenty of her 22 crew were lost.[46]
Rheinhausen  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk off the coast of Norway by HMS Taku ( Royal Navy). The whole crew of the Rheinhausen (including two wounded) were rescued by NS-22 ( Kriegsmarine).[15][47]
Viril  Sweden World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Chios, Greece by British aircraft.[15]
X22  Royal Navy World War II: The midget submarine (27/30 t, 1943) collided with HMS Syrtis ( Royal Navy) and sank in the Pentland Firth with the loss of all four crew.[15][48]

8 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 8 February 1944
Ship State Description
Gigliola  Italy World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk by aircraft off Zara, Yugoslavia.[49]
Lima Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Convoy Mo-Ta-06: The Toyooka Maru-class auxiliary troopship was torpedoed and sunk in the East China Sea south west of Kagashima (31°05′N 127°37′E / 31.083°N 127.617°E / 31.083; 127.617) by USS Snook ( United States Navy) with the loss of 2,765 troops, four workers, nine gunners and 56 crewmen. Survivors were rescued by PB-38 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) and Hyoei Maru No. 5 ( Japan).[50][51]
HNoMS MTB 625  Royal Norwegian Navy The Fairmile D motor torpedo boat was wrecked in the Shetland Islands.[52]
Margit  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy UR 108: The cargo ship (1,735 GRT, 1924) straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and sunk in the Norwegian Sea south east of Iceland (61°30′N 10°30′W / 61.500°N 10.500°W / 61.500; -10.500) by U-985 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 30 crew.[53]
Petrella  Germany World War II: The prisoner transport was torpedoed and sunk in Suda Bay by HMS Sportsman ( Royal Navy) with the loss of 2,647 of the 3,338 people on board.[54]
Shiranesan Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean west of Kyushu by USS Snook ( United States Navy).[15]
U-762  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean southwest of Ireland (49°02′N 16°58′W / 49.033°N 16.967°W / 49.033; -16.967) by HMS Wild Goose and HMS Woodpecker (both  Royal Navy) with the loss of all 51 crew.[55]

9 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 9 February 1944
Ship State Description
Empire Tana  United Kingdom) The cargo ship collided with Dunav ( Yugoslavia), Jaarstroom, Winsum (both  Netherlands) and Shirrabank ( United Kingdom) 10 nautical miles (19 km) off Casablanca, Morocco and was severely damaged. She was declared a constructive total loss. Subsequently scuttled in June on the Normandy coast as part of Operation Overlord.[56]
Kelmscott  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy ONS 5: The cargo ship was torpedoed and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean off Saint John's, Newfoundland Colony by U-845 ( Kriegsmarine). Kelmscott was towed in to Saint John's. She departed for repairs at Baltimore, Maryland, United States on 17 August.[57]
Pamona  Germany World War II: The merchant ship was sunk at Crete by British aircraft.[58]
U-238  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was sunk in the Atlantic Ocean southwest of Ireland by HMS Kite, HMS Magpie and HMS Starling (all  Royal Navy) with the loss of all 50 crew.[59]
U-734  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was sunk in the Atlantic Ocean southwest of Ireland (49°43′N 16°23′W / 49.717°N 16.383°W / 49.717; -16.383) by HMS Starling and HMS Wild Goose (both  Royal Navy) with the loss of all 49 crew.[60]
Viva  Norway World War II: The cargo ship (3,798 GRT, 1938) was torpedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean (12°30′N 57°50′E / 12.500°N 57.833°E / 12.500; 57.833) by U-188 ( Kriegsmarine). All 37 crew were rescued by Marwarri ( United Kingdom).[61]

10 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 10 February 1944
Ship State Description
El Grillo  United Kingdom World War II: The tanker (7,264 GRT, 1922) was bombed and sunk in Seyðisfjörður by Focke-Wulf Fw 200 aircraft of I Staffeln, Kampfgeschwader 40, Luftwaffe.[15]
Malta Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Convoy MOTA-01: The Imperial Japanese Army-chartered Yoshida Maru No. 1-class transport was torpedoed and sunk in the Bashi Channel south of Formosa (23°12′N 121°30′E / 23.200°N 121.500°E / 23.200; 121.500) by USS Pogy ( United States Navy). An unknown number of passengers and 33 crewmen were killed.[62][63]
Minekaze  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Convoy MOTA-01: The Minekaze-class destroyer was torpedoed and sunk in the Bashi Channel south of Formosa (23°12′N 121°30′E / 23.200°N 121.500°E / 23.200; 121.500) by USS Pogy ( United States Navy). Ninety-nine crewmen, including her commanding officer, were killed.[63]
Nina  Italy World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank off Genoa, Italy.[64]
Shinkoku Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Convoy MOTA-01: The Type 1C Standard cargo ship/transport (2,746 GRT 1943) (A.K.A. Shigyoku Maru) was torpedoed and damaged in the Bashi Channel south of Formosa (23°12′N 121°30′E / 23.200°N 121.500°E / 23.200; 121.500) by USS Pogy ( United States Navy) and was run aground to prevent sinking. After emergency repairs she was refloated the next day and then was repaired at Takao before the end of the month.[65]
U-545  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type IXC/40 submarine was depth charged and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean west of the Hebrides (58°17′N 13°22′W / 58.283°N 13.367°W / 58.283; -13.367) by a Vickers Wellington aircraft of 612 Squadron, Royal Air Force with the loss of one of her 57 crew. She was consequently scuttled due to damage received.[66]
U-666  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIC submarine went missing on patrol in the Atlantic Ocean with the loss of all 51 crew. Cause believed to be aircraft from HMS Fencer ( Royal Navy) whilst the submarine was west of Ireland attacking the homeward bound Convoy ON 223.[67][68]

11 February[edit]

For the loss of the German cargo ship Emsland on this date, see List of shipwrecks in January 1944 § 20 January.
List of shipwrecks: 11 February 1944
Ship State Description
Empire Knight  United Kingdom Carrying general cargo including war supplies, the cargo ship (7,244 GRT, 1942) struck Boon Island Ledge, a reef off Boon Island in the Gulf of Maine off Maine during a storm and broke in half. Her bow section sank on the inshore side of Boon Island Ledge in up to 90 feet (27 m) of water at 43°07′00.32″N 070°25′40.17″W / 43.1167556°N 70.4278250°W / 43.1167556; -70.4278250 (Empire Knight (bow section)), and her stern section sank approximately two nautical miles (3.7 km; 2.3 mi) south of Boon Island in 260 feet (79 m) of water at 43°06′19″N 070°27′09″W / 43.10528°N 70.45250°W / 43.10528; -70.45250 (Empire Knight (stern section)). Twenty-four members of her crew perished.[69] She was on a voyage from Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada to Calcutta, India.[70]
G 106 San Giorgio  Kriegsmarine The guard ship was sunk.
Île de Bréhat  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in the Bay of Naples 4 nautical miles (7.4 km) off Capri, Italy by Allied aircraft with the loss of six of her 48 crew.[71]
Makki Faulbaum  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk 24 nautical miles (44 km) west north west of Namsos, Norway by HMS Stubborn ( Royal Navy).[15][72][73]
USS PT-279  United States Navy The Higgins 78'-class PT boat was sunk off Bouganville Solomon Islands (05°30′S 154°15′E / 5.500°S 154.250°E / -5.500; 154.250) in a collision with her sister boat USS PT-282 ( United States Navy).[74]
Satsuma Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: The British WWI C-class standard cargo ship/transport was damaged in the South China Sea off Wenchow, China by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the Chinese Air Force and later in the day sunk (28°01′N 121°30′E / 28.017°N 121.500°E / 28.017; 121.500) by USS Gudgeon ( United States Navy) with the loss of four crew. Survivors were rescued by Tsuga and Shinko Maru No. 1 Go (both  Imperial Japanese Navy).[15][75][76]
Sturm  Germany The coaster collided with Triton ( Germany) and sank in Bergen harbour, Norway.[77]
U-283  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (60°45′N 12°50′W / 60.750°N 12.833°W / 60.750; -12.833) by a Vickers Wellington aircraft of 407 Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force with the loss of all 49 crew.[78]
U-424  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean southwest of Ireland (50°00′N 18°14′W / 50.000°N 18.233°W / 50.000; -18.233) by HMS Wild Goose and HMS Woodpecker (both  Royal Navy) with the loss of all 50 crew.[79]
V 5106 Sturm  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Vorpostenboot was sunk in a naval battle.[80]

12 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 12 February 1944
Ship State Description
Choko Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Choko Maru-class auxiliary netlayer (889 GRT, 1940) was torpedoed and sunk north west of Penang, Malaya (05°46′N 99°52′E / 5.767°N 99.867°E / 5.767; 99.867) by HMS Stonehenge ( Royal Navy).[81]
Harm Fritzen  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and damaged off the coast of Norway by HMS Taku ( Royal Navy). She was consequently beached.[15]
I-27  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Type B1 submarine was depth charged, shelled, torpedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean 60 nautical miles (110 km; 69 mi) south west of the One and a Half Degree Channel (1°25′N 72°22′E / 1.417°N 72.367°E / 1.417; 72.367) by HMS Paladin and HMS Petard (both  Royal Navy) with the loss of 98 of her 99 crew and a war correspondent. The survivor was taken as a prisoner of war.
Khedive Ismail  United Kingdom World War II: Convoy KR 8: The passenger ship (7,513 GRT, 1922) was torpedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean 60 nautical miles (110 km; 69 mi) south west of the One and a Half Degree Channel (1°25′N 72°22′E / 1.417°N 72.367°E / 1.417; 72.367) by I-27 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) with the loss of 1,297 of the 1,511 people on board. Survivors were rescued by HMS Paladin ( Royal Navy).
No. 11  Soviet Navy The No. 11-class landing tender was lost on this date.
Oria  Germany World War II: The transport ship (2,127 GRT, 1920), attempting to avoid an attack by a submarine, ran aground in a storm on the Gaideronos Reef, Rhodes, Greece and broke in two. Only 60 of the approximately 4,300 people (mostly Italian prisoners) on board were rescued.[82][83]
Ro-110  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Ro-100-class submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Bay of Bengal (17°25′N 83°21′E / 17.417°N 83.350°E / 17.417; 83.350) by HMIS Jumna ( Royal Indian Navy), HMAS Ipswich, and HMAS Launceston (both  Royal Australian Navy) with a loss of all 47 crewmen.[84]
Ronsan Maru  Japan World War II: The Konsan Maru-class tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the East China Sea off Okinoerabu Island, 40 nautical miles (74 km; 46 mi) west of Amami-o-Shima, (24°44′N 128°42′E / 24.733°N 128.700°E / 24.733; 128.700) by USS Tambor ( United States Navy). Two gunners and seventeen crewmen were killed.[26]

13 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 13 February 1944
Ship State Description
HMT Cap d' Antifer  Royal Navy World War II: The naval trawler (294 GRT, 1912) was sunk in the North Sea (53°17′N 01°06′E / 53.283°N 1.100°E / 53.283; 1.100) by a Kriegsmarine Schnellboot with all 24 hands.[85][86]
Hans Bornhofen  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk off Stavanger, Norway (59°09′N 5°24′E / 59.150°N 5.400°E / 59.150; 5.400) by HMS Taku ( Royal Navy).[87][88]
Henry  Norway World War II: The cargo ship (628 GRT, 1907) was sunk at Hustadvika, off Kristiansund by HNoMS MTB 627 and HNoMS MTB 653 (both  Royal Norwegian Navy).
Irma  Norway World War II: The passenger ship (1,392 GRT, 1905) was sunk at Hustadvika, off Kristiansund by HNoMS MTB 627 and HNoMS MTB 653 (both  Royal Norwegian Navy).
USS LCT-220  United States Navy The landing craft tank foundered off Anzio, Lazio, Italy in a storm.[89]
Shoka Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea off Hainan, China by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force.[15]
VAS 206  Regia Marina The VAS 201-class submarine chaser was wrecked off Capri.[90]
Yoshino Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Aitape, New Guinea by Douglas A-20 Havoc aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force.[15]

14 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 14 February 1944
Ship State Description
BMO-176  Soviet Navy World War II: The PP-19-OK-class motor anti-submarine boat ran aground during a landing operation at Meriküla, Estonia, and was then destroyed by German guns. 12 crew died aboard or while trying to join the landed troops, three other died six days later while trying to cross the frozen sea to escape and five managed to return to Soviet lines.[91]
BMO-177  Soviet Navy World War II: The PP-19-OK-class motor anti-submarine boat was sunk by a mine during a landing operation at Meriküla, Estonia. 15 crew were killed.[91]
Brynilen  Norway World War II: The troopship (316 GRT, 1912) was bombed and sunk at Hammerfest, Finnmark. She was raised in 1947 and scrapped in 1951.[92]
Dozan Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was wrecked after running aground near Incheon, Korea. There were no casualties.[23][93]
Hokuan Maru  Japan World War II: Convoy MO-72: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Mindoro Strait (13°44′N 120°29′E / 13.733°N 120.483°E / 13.733; 120.483) by USS Flasher ( United States Navy). 45 crewmen were killed.[15][94]
KF 458  Kriegsmarine The gunboat, a converted MFP-C landing craft, was sunk by Allied fighter-bomber aircraft in Livorno, Italy. All crew survived, one being wounded.[95]
HMS LCP(R) 781  Royal Navy The landing craft personnel (rocket) was lost in a collision in British waters.[96]
Minryo Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Convoy MO-72: The repair ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Mindoro Strait (13°44′N 120°37′E / 13.733°N 120.617°E / 13.733; 120.617) by USS Flasher ( United States Navy). Four passengers and four of the crew, or eight crew, were killed.[15][97]
Mitsu Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off the mouth of the Sepik, New Guinea by Consolidated B-24 Liberator aircraft of the United States Navy.[15]
Nittoku Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean by USS Snook ( United States Navy). 43 crew were killed.[23][50]
HMS Salviking  Royal Navy World War II: The salvage vessel (1,440 GRT, 1943) was torpedoed and sunk in the Laccadive Sea south west of Ceylon (3°30′N 76°30′E / 3.500°N 76.500°E / 3.500; 76.500) by U-168 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 27 of her 55 crew.[98]
Tanahorn  Norway World War II: The coaster (336 GRT, 1910) was bombed and sunk at Hammerfest. She was refloated in March 1944, repaired, and returned to service in April 1947.[99]
U-738  Kriegsmarine The Type VIIC submarine was sunk in a collision off Gotenhafen, West Prussia with Erna ( Germany) with the loss of 22 of her 46 crew. She was refloated on 3 March but was not repaired.[15][100]

15 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 15 February 1944
Ship State Description
Agano  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Agano-class cruiser was torpedoed and damaged in the Pacific Ocean north of Truk (10°11′N 151°42′E / 10.183°N 151.700°E / 10.183; 151.700) by USS Skate ( United States Navy) with the loss of 203 of her 726 crew. She sank on 17 February. Survivors were rescued by Oite ( Imperial Japanese Navy), but were all lost when she was also sunk later by aircraft.
Elihu Yale  United States World War II: The Liberty ship was sunk by a Luftwaffe glider bomb in the Mediterranean Sea off Anzio, Lazio, Italy (41°27′N 12°38′E / 41.450°N 12.633°E / 41.450; 12.633). Seven stevadores, two gunners and three crewmen were killed. Survivors were rescued by USS LCT-152 ( United States Navy).[2]
Epaminondas C. Embiricos Greece Greece World War II: The cargo ship (4,385 GRT, 1927) was torpedoed and sunk in the Laccadive Sea south west of Ceylon (1°30′N 73°00′E / 1.500°N 73.000°E / 1.500; 73.000) by U-168 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of four of her 42 crew. Two crew were taken on board U-168 as prisoner of war. The rest of the survivors were rescued by HMS Fara and HMT Overdale Wyke (both  Royal Navy).[101]
Fort St. Nicholas  United Kingdom World War II: Operation Shingle: The Fort ship (7,154 GRT, 1943) was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea east of Capri, Campania, Italy (40°34′N 14°37′E / 40.567°N 14.617°E / 40.567; 14.617) by U-410 ( Kriegsmarine). All 67 people on board were rescued by a Royal Air Force rescue boat.[102][103]
Hoshi Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the South China Sea off the coast of Korea.[15]
Hoshi Maru No.2  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean by USS Snook ( United States Navy).[50]
I-43  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Type B1 submarine was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean 280 miles (450 km) east south east of Guam (10°23′N 150°23′E / 10.383°N 150.383°E / 10.383; 150.383) by USS Aspro ( United States Navy). Lost with all 166 hands.[104]
Kamome Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Tsushima Strait by USS Snook ( United States Navy).[15]
USS LCT-35  United States Navy World War II: The LCT Mk 5-class landing craft tank was burned out and sunk while tied up alongside Elihu Yale ( United States) when she was sunk by a glide bomb off Anzio. Survivors rescued by USS LCT-152 ( United States Navy).[105]
M 3411  Kriegsmarine World War II: The minesweeper collided with another vessel and sank in the North Sea off the coast of Suffolk, United Kingdom whilst engaged in a battle with HMMTB 439, HMMTB 441, HMMTB 443, HMMTB 444 and HMMTB 455 (all  Royal Navy).[15]
Matsu Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in an air attack at Rabaul, New Guinea.[106]
Messina  Sweden World War II: The auxiliary schooner struck a mine and sank at Falsterbo. Her crew were rescued. She was refloated in March 1945, repaired and returned to service.[107]
HNoMS ML 210  Royal Norwegian Navy World War II: The Fairmile B motor launch was mined and sunk off the Somme estuary. Five crewmen were killed.[108]
Niedersachsen  Kriegsmarine World War II: The auxiliary minelayer was torpedoed and sunk off Toulouse, Var, France (43°02.6′N 6°01.7′E / 43.0433°N 6.0283°E / 43.0433; 6.0283) by HMS Upstart ( Royal Navy) with the loss of twelve of her crew.[15][109][110]
Odatsuki Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Convoy H-17: The Odatsuki Maru-class transport was torpedoed and sunk in the Flores Sea (09°15′N 127°00′E / 9.250°N 127.000°E / 9.250; 127.000) by USS Tinosa ( United States Navy). Four guards and six crewmen were killed. Survivors were rescued by Nagata Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy).[111][112]
Paule  Germany World War II: The sailing vessel was sunk in the Mediterranean Sea off Hyères, Var by HMS Ultor ( Royal Navy).[15]
Ping Sang France Vichy French Navy World War II: The patrol boat was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea off Hongay, French Indochina (21°00′N 107°22′E / 21.000°N 107.367°E / 21.000; 107.367) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the United States Fourteenth Air Force.[113]
Ro-40  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Ro-35-class submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Pacific Ocean north west of Kwajalein Atoll (09°50′N 166°35′E / 9.833°N 166.583°E / 9.833; 166.583) by USS Macdonough, USS Phelps and USS Sage (all  United States Navy). Lost with all 69 hands.[114]
Ryoka Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the East China Sea off the mouth of the Yangtze (31°16′N 121°45′E / 31.267°N 121.750°E / 31.267; 121.750).[15][12]
Taiyo Maru No. 3  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The auxiliary gunboat was sunk at Rabaul, New Guinea by USS Gato ( United States Navy).[15]
UIT-23  Kriegsmarine World War II: The submarine was torpedoed and sunk in the Strait of Malacca (4°27′N 100°11′E / 4.450°N 100.183°E / 4.450; 100.183) by HMS Tally-Ho ( Royal Navy) with the loss of 31 of her crew (26 German and 5 Italian). There were 14 survivors.[115][116][117]

16 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 16 February 1944
Ship State Description
CH-39  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Convoy SO-903: The No.13-class submarine chaser was damaged off Three Island Harbour, New Hanover Island (02°24′S 150°06′E / 2.400°S 150.100°E / -2.400; 150.100) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the 500th Bomb Squadron and run aground on a reef. She was later bombed and destroyed by aircraft of the 345th Bomb Group, United States Fifth Air Force. 14 crewmen were killed.[118][119]
CHa-16  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The auxiliary submarine chaser was bombed and sunk off New Ireland (02°24′S 150°06′E / 2.400°S 150.100°E / -2.400; 150.100) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the 38th and 345th Bomb Group, United States Fifth Air Force.
Chojo Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Convoy H-17: The Chojo Maru-class transport was torpedoed and sunk in the Philippine Sea (08°30′N 126°58′E / 8.500°N 126.967°E / 8.500; 126.967) by USS Tinosa ( United States Navy). A total of 748 troops and sailors, seventeen gunners, three guards, fifteen lookouts and 72 crewmen were killed.[111]
Elihu Yale  United States World War II: The Liberty ship was bombed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea off Anzio, Lazio, Italy by German aircraft.[15]
Grauerort  Germany World War II: The sailing vessel was sunk at Zante, Greece by British aircraft. She was later refloated and returned to service.[15]
HA-52  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Type B midget submarine was sunk off Three Island Harbor, New Hanover Island (02°24′S 150°06′E / 2.400°S 150.100°E / -2.400; 150.100) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the 500th Bomb Squadron. One crewman killed, one rescued by CH-39 ( Imperial Japanese Navy).[119]
HMS LST 418  Royal Navy World War II: Operation Shingle: The landing ship tank was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea north west of Ponza Island, Italy (41°00′N 12°55′E / 41.000°N 12.917°E / 41.000; 12.917) by U-230 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 21 lives. Survivors were rescued by USS LCI(L)-194 ( United States Navy).[120]
Sanko Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Convoy SO-903: The Sanko Maru-class auxiliary collier/oiler was sunk off Three Island Harbour (02°24′S 150°06′E / 2.400°S 150.100°E / -2.400; 150.100) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the 500th Bomb Squadron, of the 345th Bomb Group, United States Fifth Air Force. Fourteen crewmen were killed.[121]

17 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 17 February 1944
Ship State Description
Aikoku Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy
Aikoku Maru explodes
World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Hokuku Maru-class armed merchant cruiser was bombed and damaged, later in the day she exploded and sank in Truk Lagoon, South Pacific Mandate (07°22′N 151°56′E / 7.367°N 151.933°E / 7.367; 151.933) after being torpedoed by a Grumman TBF Avenger aircraft that went down from the blast. Most of the ships' crew including Captain Nakamaruo and 945 sailors, passengers and men of the First Brigade were killed. In July 1980 remains of 400 of those killed were returned to Japan.[122][123]
Akagi Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Akagi Maru-class armed merchant cruiser was bombed and damaged at Truk (07°50′N 151°25′E / 7.833°N 151.417°E / 7.833; 151.417) by United States Navy aircraft and was consequently scuttled. A total of 512 passengers and 788 sailors were killed.[124]
Amagisan Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Azumason Maru-class auxiliary transport was bombed, torpedoed, and sunk south west of Uman Island, Truk (07°18′N 151°53′E / 7.300°N 151.883°E / 7.300; 151.883) by United States Navy aircraft. Three crewmen were killed.[125]
CH-24  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The No.13-class submarine chaser was shelled and sunk in the Pacific Ocean west of Truk (7°24′N 150°30′E / 7.400°N 150.500°E / 7.400; 150.500) by USS Burns ( United States Navy). Six crew survived and were taken as prisoners of war.
Empire Knoll  United Kingdom The collier came ashore at Tynemouth, Northumberland in a gale. She broke in two, a total loss. (Look 17/02/1941)[126]
Fujikawa Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy
The wreck of Fujikawa Maru on 20 January 2011
World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Akiura Maru-class auxiliary transport (a.k.a. Fujigawa Maru) was torpedoed and sunk in 138 feet (42 m) of water in the Pacific Ocean off Truk (7°20′N 151°53′E / 7.333°N 151.883°E / 7.333; 151.883) by United States Navy Grumman TBF Avenger aircraft. No casualties were reported.[122][127][128]
Fujisan Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Fujisan Maru-class oiler was bombed and damaged between Moen and Dublan, Truk by United States Navy aircraft. She sank on 18 February. Two troops and two crewmen were killed.[129]
Fuku Maru No. 2  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The guard boat was bombed, torpedoed and sunk in Koravia Bay, New Britain by United States Navy Grumman TBF Avenger and Douglas SBD Dauntless aircraft.[130]
Fumizuki  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Mutsuki-class destroyer was torpedoed and damaged off Truk (07°24′N 151°44′E / 7.400°N 151.733°E / 7.400; 151.733) by United States Navy aircraft. She sank the next day with the loss of 29 of her 154 crew. Survivors were rescued by Matsukaze and Hakachi (both  Imperial Japanese Navy).[131]
Gosei Maru  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58.[132]
Gyoraitei No. 10  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The T-51-class motor torpedo boat was sunk by US Navy aircraft (07°31′N 151°59′E / 7.517°N 151.983°E / 7.517; 151.983).[3]
Gyoten Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Convoy No. 3206: The auxiliary transport ship was torpedoed, broke in two and sank in the Pacific Ocean 185 miles (298 km) west of Truk (8°04′N 149°28′E / 8.067°N 149.467°E / 8.067; 149.467) by USS Tang ( United States Navy). An unknown number of troops and eight crewmen were killed. Fujinami ( Imperial Japanese Navy) rescued many survivors, but had to discontinue due to becoming unstable from the large numbers rescued. 1,000 survivors were rescued by other ships of the convoy.[126][133][134]
Hanakawa Maru  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Type 1B Standard Wartime cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58.[135]
Hoki Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The auxiliary transport (7,113 GRT 1922) was bombed and sunk off Eten Island, Truk (07°21′N 151°56′E / 7.350°N 151.933°E / 7.350; 151.933) by United States Navy carrier aircraft. 23 crewmen were killed.[136]
Hokuyo Maru  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58.[137]
Hoyo Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Hoyo Maru-class oiler was bombed, capsized and sank in shallow water with part of the hull above water east of Fenfar Island, Truk by United States Navy aircraft. Six crewmen were killed.[138]
I-11  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Type A1 submarine was sunk in the Pacific Ocean by USS Nicholson ( United States Navy).
Iwate Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was bombed, torpedoed and sunk in Koravia Bay, New Britain by United States Navy Grumman TBF Avenger and Douglas SBD Dauntless aircraft. There were no casualties.[15][130]
Jozan Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean south of Truk by USS Cod ( United States Navy).[15]
Kashi Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Shinto Maru No. 2-class auxiliary transport ship (544 GRT, 1941) was bombed and damaged in the Pacific Ocean off New Hanover Island and was beached, or was bombed and sunk at Kavieng, New Ireland near Three Island, by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the United States Army Air Force. One crewman was killed.[15][139]
Katori  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Katori-class cruiser was shelled and sunk in the Pacific Ocean 40 nautical miles (74 km; 46 mi) north west of Truk (07°15′N 151°15′E / 7.250°N 151.250°E / 7.250; 151.250) by USS Iowa ( United States Navy).[140]
Kensho Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Kensho Maru-class auxiliary transport was bombed, torpedoed, and sunk at Truk (07°23′N 151°51′E / 7.383°N 151.850°E / 7.383; 151.850) by United States Navy aircraft. Six crewmen were killed.[141]
Kiyosumi Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Kiyosumi Maru-class auxiliary cruiser was bombed, torpedoed, and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Fefan Island, Truk (7°23′N 151°53′E / 7.383°N 151.883°E / 7.383; 151.883) by United States Navy aircraft. 43 crewmen were killed.[142][143]
Maikaze  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: Convoy No. 4215: The Kagerō-class destroyer was shelled and sunk in the Pacific Ocean 40 nautical miles (74 km) north west of Truk by USS Minneapolis and USS New Orleans (both  United States Navy) with the loss of all 239 crew.[144]
Matsutani Maru  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58.[145]
Momokawa Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Shunko Maru-class auxiliary transport (a.k.a. Momogawa Maru) was bombed and sunk at Truk (07°20′N 151°23′E / 7.333°N 151.383°E / 7.333; 151.383) by United States Navy Curtiss SB2C Helldiver aircraft from Task Force 58's USS Bunker Hill ( United States Navy). One crewman was killed.[146]
Nagano Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The 3,810-gross register ton Akita Maru-class auxiliary transport was strafed, bombed, and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft. Her captain and 59 crew were rescued by Fujinami ( Imperial Japanese Navy) on 24 February and taken to Palau.[147]
Naka  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Sendai-class cruiser was bombed, torpedoed and sunk 25 miles (40 km) west of Truk in the Pacific Ocean (07°15′N 151°15′E / 7.250°N 151.250°E / 7.250; 151.250) by United States Navy aircraft. Two hundred and forty crewmen were lost; there were 210 survivors.[148][149]
Nichiro Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Convoy No. 7125: The Nichiro Maru-class auxiliary transport was torpedoed, exploded and sank in the Pacific Ocean 155 miles (249 km) north of Palau (08°50′N 135°40′E / 8.833°N 135.667°E / 8.833; 135.667) by USS Sargo ( United States Navy). Her captain and 49 crewmen were killed. Survivors were rescued the next day by Kitakame Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy).[150][151]
Nippo Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Nippo Maru-class auxiliary water tanker (3,763 GRT 1936) was bombed and damaged in the Natshushima anchorage (east of Dublon Island), Truk (07°22′N 151°56′E / 7.367°N 151.933°E / 7.367; 151.933) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58, sinking the next day.[152][153]
No. 2  Imperial Japanese Navy The auxiliary minesweeper either foundered, or was beached, in Karavia Bay, Rabaul. Scrapped 1958.[154]
R-39  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type R-25 minesweeper was sunk by Allied aircraft at Porto Ercole.[155]
R-200  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type R-151 minesweeper was sunk by Allied aircraft at Porto Ercole.[156]
Reiyo Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Choyo Maru-class auxiliary transport ship was bombed, damaged, and set afire at Truk (7°25′N 151°45′E / 7.417°N 151.750°E / 7.417; 151.750) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58 carriers USS Essex, and USS Intrepid (both  United States Navy). The vessel sank on 19 February about three miles (4.8 km) off Eten Island (07°43′N 151°46′E / 7.717°N 151.767°E / 7.717; 151.767). Eight crewmen were killed.[157][12]
Rio de Janeiro Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The anchored Buenos Aires Maru-class auxiliary transport (known as Rio Maru in IJN service) was bombed and damaged in the Pacific Ocean east of Umon Island, Truk (7°20′N 151°53′E / 7.333°N 151.883°E / 7.333; 151.883) by United States Navy aircraft. She sank the next day in 115 feet (35 m) of water. Two crewmen were killed.[122][158][12]
ShCh-216  Soviet Navy World War II: The Shchuka-class submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Black Sea west of Sevastopol (44°37′N 32°04′E / 44.617°N 32.067°E / 44.617; 32.067) by UJ-106 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 47 crew.[159][160]
Seiko Maru  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58.[161]
Shinkoku Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Shinkoku Maru-class oiler was bombed and damaged north west of Fefan Island, Truk by United States Navy aircraft. She was bombed again on 18 February and sank in shallow water (7°20′N 151°40′E / 7.333°N 151.667°E / 7.333; 151.667). Seventy passengers and sixteen crewmen were killed.[162][12]
Shoei Maru No. 7 Go  Imperial Japanese Navy The auxiliary guard boat was lost on this date.
Shonan Maru No.15  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: Convoy No. 4215: The auxiliary submarine chaser/naval trawler was shelled and sunk in the Pacific Ocean north west of Truk by USS New Jersey ( United States Navy).[140]
Tachikaze  Imperial Japanese Navy
A U.S. Navy Grumman F6F Hellcat aircraft passes over the sinking Tachikaze.
World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Minekaze-class destroyer was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean 40 nautical miles (74 km; 46 mi) off Kuop, Truk (07°03′N 151°5′E / 7.050°N 151.083°E / 7.050; 151.083) by United States Navy aircraft with the loss of 67 crewmen.[163]
Taiho Maru  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58.[164]
Taikichi Maru  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58.[165]
Tatuha Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: Operation Hailstorm: Convoy No. 3206: The Shiraha Maru-class auxiliary transport was bombed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean 75 miles (121 km) northwest of Truk by United States Navy Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bomber aircraft from USS Intrepid ( United States Navy). Her bridge was blown off killing her bridge crew and many senior Imperial Japanese Army officers. She sank at 07°48′N 151°27′E / 7.800°N 151.450°E / 7.800; 151.450. 535 troops and crew were killed. Fujinami, Amakusa (both  Imperial Japanese Navy), Ryuko Maru, and Ryuko Maru (both  Japan), rescued 800, but 500 went missing.[134][166]
Tonan Maru No. 3  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Tonan Maru No. 2-class auxiliary oiler was bombed and damaged at Truk by United States Navy aircraft. She was bombed again on 18 February and sank in shallow water. Three hundred and fifteen people were killed. The wreck was raised on 3 March 1951, towed to Japan and repaired. The vessel returned to service as a whale oil factory ship on 8 October 1951.[167]
Unkai Maru No. 6  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Unkai Maru No. 6-class general work ship was bombed and damaged at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58 carriers USS Essex, USS Bunker Hill and USS Yorktown (all  United States Navy). Bombed and sunk the next day by aircraft from Essex at 07°19′N 151°45′E / 7.317°N 151.750°E / 7.317; 151.750. Three crew were killed during the attacks.[168][169]
Unknown Daihatsu landing barges  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: Several barges loaded with men are bombed and sunk by Grumman TBF Avenger aircraft from USS Yorktown ( United States Navy).[170]
W-26  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The W-19-class minesweeper was bombed, torpedoed and sunk in Koravia Bay, New Britain by United States Navy aircraft. Scrapped in situ in 1958.[130]
Yamagiri Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The anchored Shinko Maru-class auxiliary transport ship was bombed and sunk north of Fefan Island, Truk 07°23′N 151°50′E / 7.383°N 151.833°E / 7.383; 151.833 by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58. 11 crewmen were killed.[171][172]
Yamakisan Maru  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58.[173]
Yubae Maru  Japan World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Truk by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 58.[174]
Zuikai Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: Convoy No. 3206: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean north west of Truk by United States Navy Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bomber aircraft from USS Intrepid ( United States Navy). Fujinami and Amakusa (both  Imperial Japanese Navy) rescued an unknown number of survivors.[175][134]

18 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 18 February 1944
Ship State Description
HMS Breda  Royal Navy World War II: The armed yacht (1,207 or 1,431 GRT, 1912) was sunk in a collision off Campbeltown Argyllshire.[176]
CH-29  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The submarine chaser was sunk in the Pacific Ocean north west of Udot Isaland, Truk (07°25′N 151°45′E / 7.417°N 151.750°E / 7.417; 151.750) by United States Navy aircraft.[177]
CHa-17  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The CHa-1-class auxiliary submarine chaser was sunk off Kavieng, New Ireland by American aircraft.
Ettore  Germany World War II: The cargo ship was damaged in an Allied air raid on Livorno, Italy and was beached. The ship was eventually scuttled as a blockship at Livorno, Italy in July 1944.[15][178][179]
F 442C  Kriegsmarine The MFP-C landing craft was sunk on this date.
Heian Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Heian Maru-class submarine tender was bombed and damaged in the Pacific Ocean off Truk (07°23′N 151°52′E / 7.383°N 151.867°E / 7.383; 151.867) by United States Navy aircraft.[122] The wreck was later refloated, towed to a Japanese port, and scrapped.[180]
USS LCT-205  United States Navy The LCT Mk 5-class landing craft tank capsized in the Gulf of Tunis while under tow.[181]
Oite  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstone: The Kamikaze-class destroyer was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean off Truk (07°40′N 138°57′E / 7.667°N 138.950°E / 7.667; 138.950) by a United States Navy Grumman TBF Avenger aircraft with the loss of 172 of her 192 crew and all 523 survivors from Agano ( Imperial Japanese Navy).[182]
HMS Penelope  Royal Navy World War II: Operation Shingle: The Arethusa-class cruiser (5,270/6,715 t, 1936) was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea 35 nautical miles (65 km) west of Naples, Campania, Italy (40°33′N 13°14′E / 40.550°N 13.233°E / 40.550; 13.233) by U-410 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 417 of her 623 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMS LST 165 and HMS LST 430 (both  Royal Navy).[183]
San Francisco Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The 5,831-gross register ton Daifuku Maru No. 1-class auxiliary transport was bombed and sunk in 140 to 210 feet (43 to 64 m) of water in Truk Lagoon (7°22′N 151°54′E / 7.367°N 151.900°E / 7.367; 151.900) by United States Navy aircraft from the aircraft carrier USS Essex. Five crewmen were killed.[184][185][12]
Soya  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Operation Hailstorm: The Soya-class ammunition ship ran aground on a large coral head east of Dublon Island, Truk while fleeing air attacks. The vessel was lightly damaged by bombing and strafing while aground during the attacks. Ten crewmen were killed. Soya was refloated at an unknown date.[186]
U-7  Kriegsmarine The Type IIB submarine sank near Pillau in a diving accident with the loss of all 29 crew.
U-406  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (48°32′N 23°36′W / 48.533°N 23.600°W / 48.533; -23.600) by HMS Spey ( Royal Navy) with the loss of twelve of her 57 crew.[187]
USS YT-198  United States Navy World War II: Operation Shingle: The tug struck a mine off Anzio, Lazio, Italy and sank.[188]

19 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 19 February 1944
Ship State Description
CH-22  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Convoy O-902: The No.13-class submarine chaser was bombed and sunk in the Bismark Sea 35 nautical miles (65 km) south of Kavieng, New Ireland (03°04′S 150°42′E / 3.067°S 150.700°E / -3.067; 150.700) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the 500th and 501st Squadrons, 345th Bomb Group and Douglas A-20 Havoc aircraft of the 23rd Bomb Group, United States Fifth Air Force.[15][189]
CH-40  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: Convoy O-902: The No.13-class submarine chaser was bombed and sunk in the Bismark Sea 35 nautical miles (65 km) south of Kavieng (03°04′S 150°42′E / 3.067°S 150.700°E / -3.067; 150.700) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the 500th and 501st Squadrons, 345th Bomb Group and Douglas A-20 Havoc aircraft of the 23rd Bomb Group, United States Fifth Air Force.[15][190]
CHa-34  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The auxiliary submarine chaser was bombed and sunk off Kavieng (02°45′S 150°47′E / 2.750°S 150.783°E / -2.750; 150.783) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the 500th and 501st Squadrons, 345th Bomb Group and Douglas A-20 Havoc aircraft of the 23rd Bomb Group, United States Fifth Air Force.[15]
Daikei Maru  Imperial Japanese Army World War II: The Type 1B Wartime Standard cargo ship (a.k.a. Taikei Maru) was torpedoed and sunk in the South China Sea south south west of Takao (11°48′N 118°50′E / 11.800°N 118.833°E / 11.800; 118.833) by USS Grayback ( United States Navy). 1,533 troops, 15 gunners and 21 crewmen were killed.[191]
Ichiyo Maru  Japan World War II: Convoy HI-40: The Imperial Japanese Army (IJA)-chartered Wartime Standard Type 1TM tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the South China Sea 300 miles (480 km) west of Luzon (15°46′N 115°57′E / 15.767°N 115.950°E / 15.767; 115.950) by USS Jack ( United States Navy). Twenty-eight crewmen were killed.[192][193]
Kokuei Maru  Japan World War II: Convoy HI-40: The IJA-chartered Wartime Standard Type 1TM tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the South China Sea 300 miles (480 km) west of Luzon (14°34′N 114°11′E / 14.567°N 114.183°E / 14.567; 114.183) by USS Jack ( United States Navy). Six crewmen were killed.[15][192][194]
Nanei Maru  Japan World War II: Convoy HI-40: The IJA-chartered Standard Type 1TM tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the South China Sea 300 miles (480 km) west of Luzon (14°34′N 114°11′E / 14.567°N 114.183°E / 14.567; 114.183) by USS Jack ( United States Navy). Five gunners and 55 crewmen were killed.[192][195]
Nichirin Maru  Japan World War II: Convoy HI-40: The IJA-chartered Standard Type 1TM tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the South China Sea 300 miles (480 km) west of Luzon (15°40′N 115°48′E / 15.667°N 115.800°E / 15.667; 115.800) by USS Jack ( United States Navy). Forty-eight crewmen were killed.[192][196]
Shinkiki Maru  Japan World War II: Convoy O-902: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Gazalle Channel by Douglas A-20 Havoc, North American B-25 Mitchell and Lockheed P-38 Lightning aircraft of the United States Army Air Force.[15]
Shinto Maru No. 1  Japan World War II: Convoy O-902: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Gazalle Channel 22 nautical miles (41 km) south of Kavieng (02°46′S 150°42′E / 2.767°S 150.700°E / -2.767; 150.700) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the 500th and 501st Squadrons, 345th Bomb Group and Douglas A-20 Havoc aircraft of the 23rd Bomb Group, United States Fifth Air Force. Nineteen crewmen, 41 troops and 46 gunners were lost.[15][190]
Tairyu Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy World War II: The Waihora Maru-class auxiliary transport was bombed and sunk in the Formosa Strait 20 miles (32 km) north of Kuku Point (25°25′N 121°30′E / 25.417°N 121.500°E / 25.417; 121.500) by Consolidated B-24 Liberator aircraft of the United States Fourteenth Air Force. Seven crewmen were killed.[15][197]
Tatsugiku Maru  Japan World War II: Convoy O-902: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Gazalle Channel 22 nautical miles (41 km) south of Kavieng (02°46′N 150°42′E / 2.767°N 150.700°E / 2.767; 150.700) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the 500th and 501st Squadrons, 345th Bomb Group and Douglas A-20 Havoc aircraft of the 23rd Bomb Group, United States Fifth Air Force. Fifteen crewmen were lost.[190]
U-264  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean by HMS Starling and HMS Woodpecker (both  Royal Navy). All 52 crew survived.[198]
U-386  Kriegsmarine World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (48°51′N 22°44′W / 48.850°N 22.733°W / 48.850; -22.733) by HMS Spey ( Royal Navy) with the loss of 33 of her 49 crew.[199]

20 February[edit]

List of shipwrecks: 20 February 1944
Ship State Description
Elima  Germany The cargo ship collided with another vessel in Trondheimsfjord, Norway and was beached.[200] She broke up and sank on 23 February[201]
Hamburg  Kriegsmarine The MFP-A landing craft was sunk on this date.
Hydro  Norway World War II: The train ferry was sunk in Lake Tinnsjø near Rjukan by Norwegian saboteurs whilst carrying heavy water for the German nuclear programme.
USS LCT-340  United States Navy The LCT Mk 5-class landing craft tank foundered in a storm off Sicily, Italy, or off the coast of Algeria (36°49′N 01°55′E / 36.817°N 1.917°E / 36.817; 1.917).[202]
HMS LST 305  Royal Navy World War II: Operation Shingle: The landing ship tank (1,625/4,080 t, 1942) was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea 41°14′N 12°31′E / 41.233°N 12.517°E / 41.233; 12.517 by U-230 ( Kriegsmarine).[203]
USS LST-348  United States Navy World War II: Operation Shingle: The landing ship tank was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea 40 nautical miles (74 km) south of Naples, Campania, Italy (40°57′N 13°14′E / 40.950°N 13.233°E / 40.950; 13.233) by U-410 ( Kriegsmarine). There were 24 dead and 79 survivors.[204]
NB-9 Yugoslav Partisans World War II: The gunboat was rammed and sunk by a Royal Navy destroyer.[205]
Nanyo Maru  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the South China Sea east of Formosa by USS Pogy ( United States Navy).[62]
Schwerin  Kriegsmarine World War II: The auxiliary minelayer was sunk by British aircraft.
Taizin Maru <--not Taijin Maru, renamed 1938-->  Japan World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the South China Sea east of Formosa by USS Pogy ( United States Navy).[62]
UJ 2208 Alfred  Kriegsmarine The naval trawler/submarine chaser was lost on this date.
HMS Warwick