USS Lagarto, World War II submarine wreck in Gulf of Thailand.
The USS Lagarto is a sunken Balao-class submarine resting on the seafloor of the Gulf of Thailand. The wreck sits at roughly 70 meters depth and maintains its original form and structure.
The submarine vanished in May 1945 during its second patrol after an encounter with the Japanese minelayer Hatsutaka. The exact location remained a mystery for six decades for the naval families.
Naval museums across the United States display photographs and artifacts documenting the submarine's construction at Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company.
Experienced divers can reach the wreck through specialized diving tour operators departing from ports on Thailand's eastern coast. Underwater conditions require advanced diving skills and proper preparation.
A British team of technical divers discovered the wreck in 2005 after decades of searching. The find finally brought closure to families of the 88 crew members.
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