A photogrammetry model by The Lost 52 Project shows the wreck of the USS Harder off the Philippines, recently discovered by the project. (The Lost 52 Project). Photo

The submarine was last reported on August 29, 1944, in the South China Sea near Luzon.

A US Navy submarine that sank nearly 80 years ago during WWII has been found. The wreckage of the USS Harder was discovered off Okinawa, Japan, at a depth of 3,750 feet, Interesting Engineering reports on May 25th.

The USS Harder sank the most Japanese warships during WWII, significantly aiding the US victory. Its actions forced Japan to alter plans and delayed their carrier force, contributing to their defeat.

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The wreckage is believed to be the final resting place of 79 US sailors who were on board when the submarine sank on August 29, 1944.

During its final war patrol, the submarine reportedly sank three Japanese destroyers and heavily damaged two others over four days.

The Lost 52 Project, which aims to find 52 American submarines sunk during WWII, discovered the USS Harder. For this discovery, the project collaborated closely with the National Museum of the Philippines.

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