Historic nautical discovery: the disturbing mystery of the French submarine that disappeared during World War II is solved
The French submarine Le Tonnant has been located off the coast of Cádiz, south west Spain. The vessel had been missing for 83 years.
After more than eight decades of mystery, the French submarine Le Tonnant, missing since November 15, 1942, has finally been located off the coast of Cádiz, Spain. The discovery ends 83 years of uncertainty surrounding the vessel’s fate during World War II.
Discovery after decades of searching
On November 17, a team of diving researchers from the University of Western Brittany confirmed the submarine’s location, according to French newspaper Le Télégramme. The breakthrough came after a renewed search effort in Cádiz, following a failed attempt in December 2024.
This time, investigators had access to new evidence—including the captain’s logbooks—which proved decisive in guiding them to the wreck site. Using sonar imaging, the team was able to pinpoint the submarine with precision.
Le Tonnant’s final mission
Le Tonnant sank during the Battle of Casablanca, a fierce naval clash between US and Vichy French forces off the coast of Morocco. The submarine had been badly damaged in a surprise attack by the U.S. Navy. With its ballast tanks compromised, it managed to submerge with only 30 of its 72 crew members on board.
The wreck now serves as a haunting reminder of the human cost of World War II and the long shadow it continues to cast over history.
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