Wrecks off Zeebrugge identified as German U-boats from World War I

Two wrecks found off the coast of Zeebrugge have been identified as German submarines from World War I, Carl Decaluwé, the governor of West Flanders, announced at a press conference in Ostend on Monday.

The submarines had already been marked as wrecks on nautical charts, but until now, the type of vessel had not been known. Maritime archaeologist Thomas Termote has now been able to identify them as the U-5 and the U-14.

"It's important to identify these wrecks. The stories behind these finds are of historical importance," said Decaluwé. "It's also important for the deceased crew. We have contacted the German authorities. They are looking into whether family members need to be notified. It's nice that 100 years later, we can work together to complete these stories."

"It's important to identify these wrecks. The stories behind these finds are of historical importance"

The U-5 is the oldest submarine sunk in Belgian waters. It dates from 1910, is 57 m long and was fitted with four torpedo launchers. The submarine was thought to have hit a mine with all its crew. The wreck is still intact and well-preserved on the seabed.

The UC-14 was 34 m long and was built in 1915. It carried out 20 mine-laying operations off the British coast and sank six British naval trawlers. On 1 October 1917, it left the port of Zeebrugge for the last time. After its departure, it disappeared from the radar, and it is suspected that it hit a mine.

"Due to the remains, these are now sailors' graves," said Decaluwé. "The wrecks will remain, and we will propose some protective measures. I have also commissioned a scientific report."

There are more than 300 shipwrecks in Belgian waters. About 40 have yet to be identified.

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