Ponorené tajomstvo: Junkers Ju 87R-2 pri ostrove Žirje

In the depths of the Adriatic Sea, surrounded by a quiet and fascinating underwater ecosystem, lies one of the most iconic bombers of World War II – the Junkers Ju 87R-2, better known as the Stuka . This legendary machine was designed for dive bombing , which gave it exceptional accuracy when attacking ground targets. But today it has a different role – it has become an underwater witness to history , attracting divers from all over the world.

 

A rare witness of wartime

Today, the Junkers Ju 87 is a rare historical aircraft, with only a few surviving examples in the world . If you want to see real models of it, you can find them in these museums:

• • Royal Air Force Museum, London (UK) – exhibits a Ju 87D-3, which was used on the Eastern Front.

• • Luftwaffenmuseum, Berlin (Germany) – exhibits a Ju 87G, modified for tank destruction.

• • National Museum of the United States Air Force, Ohio (USA) – they have a Ju 87B that was salvaged after World War II.

• • Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace, Paris (France) – contains a fragment of a Ju 87 that was shot down during the Battle of Britain.

• • Technical Museum in Belgrade (Serbia) – preserves parts of Ju 87s used during war operations in Yugoslavia.

• • Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (USA) – exhibits the Junkers Ju-87R-2 Tropical Stuka , the only known example of this modification . The aircraft has been part of the exhibition since 1946 and represents an important artifact of aviation history.

But one of the most unique specimens will never make it to the museum – its fate is forever tied to the Adriatic Sea.

 

A discovery hidden beneath the surface

The wreckage of the Stuka was discovered off the Croatian island of Žirje in 2014 , lying on a sandy seabed at a depth of approximately 28 meters . Historically, the aircraft belonged to the Regia Aeronautica , the Royal Italian Air Force, and was likely shot down or forced to land on water during wartime operations in 1941.

According to available information, it is still believed that the wreckage discovered off the island of Žirje is a Junkers Ju 87R-2 , but definitive confirmation has not yet been made public ( X-Ray Mag ).

For divers, this wreck is a real treasure – the fuselage and wings of the aircraft are still clearly recognizable, while corrosion has given it a unique underwater character. A new ecosystem has formed on its surface, where corals, sponges and marine animals have found their home. The experience of diving at the Stuka is therefore not only a technical exploration, but also an adventure in discovering the coexistence of history and nature.

 

Stuka: From fighting machine to submarine legend

One of the most interesting features of the Ju 87 was its „Jericho-Trompete“ siren, which made a terrifying wailing sound when diving , causing panic in enemy troops. This psychological weapon was part of the blitzkrieg that helped Germany invade Poland and France. Despite its success, however, the Stuka began to lose its advantage in the Battle of Britain, where it encountered the more powerful Hurricane and Spitfire fighters.

The Ju 87R-2 version , based in the Adriatic Sea, was modified for longer range – it was equipped with additional fuel tanks, which gave it a greater operational radius. This model was mainly used for strategic bombing and deep-sea warfare missions.

 

Underwater protection and research of the wreck

A Croatian team of underwater archaeologists from ICUA Zadar is working to preserve the wreck to ensure its long-term preservation . In 2025, they developed a unique corrosion-stopping method that helps preserve its metal parts from gradual decay. Their research also includes 3D laser scanning , which records every detail of the aircraft – from its design to traces of military deployment.

For divers, diving to the Stuka is not only a technical challenge, but also an emotional experience. Seeing history with your own eyes while swimming around this majestic relic is something that resonates deep within the soul of every explorer.

 

Diving ethics and the protection of historical heritage

Due to damage caused by irresponsible visitors, regulations have been in place since 2015 – diving at the wreck is only permitted in organized groups under the guidance of a licensed diving center. This ensures the protection of this underwater monument from vandalism and unwanted interference.

If you want to experience a true blend of history and adventure , the Junkers Ju 87R-2 wreck off the island of Žirje is one of the most impressive underwater treasures. Every dive is a journey back in time , where war history comes alive beneath the surface of the Adriatic Sea.