Missing WW2 RAAF Bomber Found After 80 Years
Photo from Australian Government Defence
A missing World War II bomber has been located 80 years after vanishing in the Pacific Ocean. Discovered late last year off Gasmata, New Britain—part of Papua New Guinea—Australia’s Department of Defence confirmed the identification of the aircraft as the RAAF No. 100 Squadron Beaufort Bomber A9-374.
The bomber, which went down during a mission in 1943, had four crew members on board, all of whom were killed in action. Designed by the Bristol Aeroplane Company, this British twin-engine bomber was used extensively in various theaters of the war, with over 1,100 manufactured, including many for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
The wreckage, scattered over a wide area more than 50 feet underwater, presented challenges for identification, requiring specialized divers and maritime archaeologists to assess the site, which was covered in sediment and marine growth. RAAF Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Stephen Chappell expressed gratitude to all involved, emphasizing the importance of providing closure to the families of the lost airmen.
The discovery was part of an expedition by Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest, who sought to find his uncle, Flying Officer David Forrest, shot down in a similar bomber. A memorial service for the crew is planned at RAAF Base Point Cook in October. Chappell reaffirmed the commitment to accounting for all missing service personnel.
