List of shipwrecks in January 1942

The list of shipwrecks in January 1942 includes all ships sunk, foundered, grounded, or otherwise lost during January 1942.

January 1942
Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat	Sun
Unknown date			1	2	3	4
5	6	7	8	9	10	11
12	13	14	15	16	17	18
19	20	21	22	23	24	25
26	27	28	29	30	31

1 January

• Daisy ( United Kingdom): The tug foundered in the Mediterranean Sea whilst under tow from Alexandria, Egypt to Tobruk, Libya.^[1]
• Kentwood ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and was damaged in the North Sea off Happisburgh, Norfolk. She was taken in tow by a Royal Navy ship but later sank. All crew were rescued.^[1]
• Koraltepe ( Turkey): World War II: The sailing ship was shelled and sunk in the Black Sea east of Cape Igneada, Turkey (41°43′N 28°13′E / 41.717°N 28.217°E / 41.717; 28.217) by ShCh-214 ( Soviet Navy).^[2][3]
• Penrhos ( United Kingdom): World War II: The coaster struck a mine and sank in Liverpool Bay.^[1]
• Teiun Maru ( Japan): World War II: The cargo ship entered a Japanese mine field 2 miles south west of Santo Tomas, Luzon (16°11′N 120°18′E / 16.183°N 120.300°E / 16.183; 120.300 and was sunk. 27 military passengers, her C.O. and 6 crewmen killed.^[4]
• Toen Maru  Imperial Japanese Navy) : World War II: The Fleet Oiler struck a mine south-west of Hong Kong, losing her bow, and was beached. Refloated, repaired and returned to service.^[5]

2 January

For the scuttling of the Swedish cargo ship Shantung on this day, see the entry for 25 December 1941.

• Anakan ( United States): World War II The coaster was bombed and sunk, or scuttled, at Manila, Philippines by Japanese aircraft. Later salvaged by the Japanese and put in service as Anan Maru.^[6]
• Biscayas ( United States): World War II The coaster was bombed and sunk at Manila, Philippines by Japanese aircraft.^[6]
• USS Camia ( United States Navy): World War II: The launch was bombed and sunk by Japanese aircraft at Cavite Naval Base, Philippines .^[7]
• HMS Daisy ( Royal Navy): World War II: The Tug foundered in the Mediterranean Sea between Alexandria and Tobruk.^[8]
• Don Jose ( United States): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and damaged in the Pacific Ocean by Japanese aircraft and was beached. She was captured by the Japanese and taken to Hong Kong, where she was damaged by Allied bombing and consequently scrapped.^[1]
• USS Iona ( United States Navy): World War II: The tug was bombed and sunk at Cavite Naval Base, Philippines in a Japanese air raid.^[9]
• Luzon ( United States): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk, or scuttled, at Manilla. Raised, repaired, and put in Japanese service as Ruson Maru.^[6]
• Malama ( United States): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and damaged in the Pacific Ocean (26°21′S 151°24′W / 26.350°S 151.400°W / -26.350; -151.400) by an aircraft from Aikoku Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy). Her crew then scuttled the ship. All hands were rescued by Aikoku Maru and Hokoku Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy).^[10]
• USS Mercedes ( United States Navy): World War II: The tug was destroyed to prevent capture at Cavite Naval Base, Philippines.^[11]
• Waziristan ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy PQ 7A: The cargo ship became stranded in ice. She was damaged by Luftwaffe bombing and then torpedoed and sunk by U-134 ( Kriegsmarine) 20 nautical miles (37 km) south of Bear Island, Norway (74°09′N 19°10′E / 74.150°N 19.167°E / 74.150; 19.167) with the loss of all 47 crew.^[1][12][13]

3 January

• Corfen ( United Kingdom: World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and was damaged in the Thames Estuary. She was taken in tow but later sank.^[1]
• Langkoeas ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Java Sea north of Bawean, Dutch East Indies by I-58 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). The crew took to the lifeboats, one of which was rammed by I-58. Other survivors were machine-gunned. Only three of her 94 crew survived. They were rescued from Bawean by USS Paul Jones ( United States Navy).^[1]
• Krasnyi Kavkaz ( Soviet Navy): World War II: The Admiral Nakhimov-class cruiser was bombed and severely damaged off the Kerch Peninsula by Junkers Ju 87 aircraft of Sturzkampfgeschwader 77, Luftwaffe. Repairs took until October to complete.
• Meiko Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: The troop transport was sunk when her cargo of gasoline cought fire off Hainan. All crewmembers rescued by Kashii ( Imperial Japanese Navy).^[14]
• Moji Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: The Moji Maru-class tanker was sunk by a mine south west of Hong Kong.^[15]
• Robert ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and was damaged in the North Sea off Lowestoft, Suffolk. She was taken in tow but sank the next day.^[1]

4 January

• Kwangtung ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship was shelled and sunk in the Java Sea south of Java by I-156 ( Imperial Japanese Navy), which machine gunned and rammed the lifeboats. There were 35 survivors of the 136 people aboard.^[16][17]
• HMS Sona ( Royal Navy): World War II: The armed yacht was bombed and sunk at Poole .^[18]
• Nuevo San Pietro ( Regia Marina): World War II: The auxiliary minesweeper, a caïque, was torpedoed and sunk in the Ionian Sea west of Cephalonia, Greece (38°07′N 20°20′E / 38.117°N 20.333°E / 38.117; 20.333) by HMS Thunderbolt ( Royal Navy.^[1][3]

5 January

• Ammiraglio St Bon ( Regia Marina): World War II: The submarine was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea (38°22′N 15°22′E / 38.367°N 15.367°E / 38.367; 15.367) by HMS Upholder ( Royal Navy) with the loss of all but three crew.^[1]
• Città di Palermo ( Italy): World War II: The troopship was torpedoed and sunk in the Adriatic Sea 3 nautical miles (5.6 km) west of Cape Dukato, Albania by HMS Proteus ( Royal Navy).^[1]
• Cornelia Maersk ( Denmark): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Hoek van Holland, South Holland, Netherlands during a British air raid.^[3]
• Vrzyvatel ( Soviet Navy): World War II: The minesweeper was bombed by Gerrman aircraft and beached at Eupatoria.^[19]

6 January

• Baron Erskine ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy SC 62: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpoedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (59°15′N 18°30′W / 59.250°N 18.500°W / 59.250; -18.500) by U-701 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 41 crew.^[1][20]
• Nogin ( Soviet Navy): World War II: The transport ship was bombed and sunk at Feodosia by Luftwaffe aircraft.^[3]
• Norwich Trader ( United Kingdom): The coaster exploded and sank in the North Sea (51°55′07″N 1°32′05″E / 51.91861°N 1.53472°E / 51.91861; 1.53472) with the loss of all seven crew.^[1]
• Zyrjanin ( Soviet Navy): World War II: The transport ship was bombed and sunk at Feodosia by Luftwaffe aircraft.^[3]

7 January

• Djirak ( Netherlands): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Java Sea (7°15′S 116°23′E / 7.250°S 116.383°E / -7.250; 116.383) by I-57 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). All crew were rescued.^[1]
• Jumièges ( France): The cargo liner issued a mayday in the Mediterranean Sea off the Balearic Islands, Spain during a storm. No further trace.^[21][22]
• Perla ( Kingdom of Italy): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea 20 nautical miles (37 km) south of Pantelleria by Fairey Swordfish aircraft of 830 Squadron, Fleet Air Arm.^[1]
• Unkai Maru No.1 ( Japan): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean by USS Pollack ( United States Navy).^[3][23]
• V 5104 Orkan ( Kriegsmarine): World War II: Operation Kitbag: The submarine chaser was shellled and damaged by HMS Inglefield and HMS Intrepid (both  Royal Navy) and was beached at Florø, Sogn og Fjordane, Norway.^[3]

8 January

• USAMP General Richard Arnold ( United States Army): World War II The US Army Mine Planter sprang a leak in a storm and sank 20 miles south east of the Isles of Shoals. 10 crewmen killed. Her C.O. was rescued by USAMP L-88 ( United States Army).^[24][25]
• Van Rees ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Java Sea 80 nautical miles (150 km) south of Tjilapjap, Dutch East Indies by I-56 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). 5 crewmen killed.^[1]
• Van Riebeeck ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was torpoedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean (8°11′S 108°47′E / 8.183°S 108.783°E / -8.183; 108.783) by I-56 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). 13 crewmen killed. Survivors rescued by HNLMS Willem Van Der Zaam ( Royal Netherlands Navy).^[1]

9 January

• Benkoelen ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean (4°50′S 112°20′E / 4.833°S 112.333°E / -4.833; 112.333 by I-65 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). USS Paul Jones ( United States Navy) rescued 101 survivors.^[1][3]
• Camphuijs ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was shelled, then torpedoed and sunk in the Java Sea west of Bawean Island (4°40′S 111°47′E / 4.667°S 111.783°E / -4.667; 111.783) by I-58 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). The crew survived.^[1]
• Chatyr Dag ( Soviet Navy): World War II. The transport ship was bombed and sunk at Feodosia by Luftwaffe aircraft.^[3]
• Empire Lytton ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy TM 1: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (28°08′N 28°20′W / 28.133°N 28.333°W / 28.133; -28.333) by U-442 ( Kriegsmarine).^[26]
• Lamoricière ( France): World War II: The ocean liner struck a mine and sank in the Mediterranean Sea north of Minorca, Spain with the loss of 299 of the 394 people aboard.^[3][21][22]
• Spartakovets ( Soviet Navy): World War II: The transport ship was bombed and sunk at Feodosia by Luftwaffe aircraft.^[3]
• Teian Maru ( Japan): World War II: The cargo ship was shelled and sunk in the Pacific Ocean by USS Pollack ( United States Navy).^[23]
• HMS Vimiera ( Royal Navy): World War II: Convoy FS 693: The V-class destroyer struck a mine and sank in the Thames Estuary with the loss of 96 of her 110 crew.

10 January

• Akita Maru ( Japan): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Philippine Sea north of Luzon, Philippines by HNLMS O 19 ( Royal Netherlands Navy). Survivors rescued by Asakazi, Fubuki, and Hatakaze, all ( Imperial Japanese Navy).^[3][27][28]
• Borderdene ( United Kingdom): World War II: The coaster struck a mine and sank in the Bristol Channel off Brean Down, Somerset with the loss of all four crew.^[1]
• Daylite ( Panama): World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in Manila Bay.^[1]
• Elise Schulte ( Germany): The cargo ship ran aground near Tromsø, Norway and was wrecked.^[1]
• Fedora ( Italy): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Adriatic Sea 35 nautical miles (65 km) south east of Cape Dukato, Albania by HMS Thrasher ( Royal Navy).^[1]
• Harbin Maru ( Japan): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in Sama Bay by USS Stingray ( United States Navy).^[29]
• Kanko Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: The auxiliary Gunboat was torpedoed and sunk in the South China Sea by USS Pickerel ( United States Navy).^[30][31]
• M-175 ( Soviet Navy): World War II: The M-class submarine was torpedoed and sunk in the Barents Sea (70°09′N 32°50′E / 70.150°N 32.833°E / 70.150; 32.833 by U-584 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 21 crew.^[1][32]
• HMS Queen of Bermuda ( Royal Navy): The armed merchant cruiser ran aground at Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada and was severely damaged. She was refloated the next day, repaired and returned to service.^[1]
• U-374 ( Kriegsmarine): The Type VIIC submarine was torpedoed and damaged in the Mediterranean Sea by HNLMS Isaac Sweers ( Koninklijk Marine) and HMS Legion ( Royal Navy, leaving her unable to submerge. She was torpedoed and sunk two days later at 37°50′N 16°00′E / 37.833°N 16.000°E / 37.833; 16.000 by HMS Unbeaten ( Royal Navy) with the loss of 42 of her 43 crew.^[1]

11 January

For sinking of the American tanker Manatawny on this date, see the entry for 12 December 1941.

• City of Pittsburgh ( United Kingdom): The cargo ship ran aground at Alexandria, Egypt and broke her back, a total loss.^[1]
• USAT Liberty ( United States Army): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and damaged in the Lombok Strait (8°54′S 115°28′E / 8.900°S 115.467°E / -8.900; 115.467 by I-166 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). She was taken in tow by USS Paul Jones ( United States Navy) and HNLMS Van Ghent ( Koninklijk Marine) and beached at Tulamben, Dutch East Indies. She sank in 1963 following the eruption of Mount Agung.^[1]
• Mimona ( Norway): World War II: The cargo ship was shelled and damaged at Berlevåg, Finnmark (70°49′N 29°20′E / 70.817°N 29.333°E / 70.817; 29.333) by K-22 ( Soviet Navy). She was beached, but was declared a total loss.^[33]
• HNLMS Prins van Oranje ( Koninklijke Marine) The Prins van Oranje -class minelayer was shelled and sunk by Yamakaze and PB-38 (both  Imperial Japanese Navy) off Tarakan Netherlands East Indies.^[34]
• R 42 ( Kriegsmarine): The minesweeper struck a submerged wreck and sank in the English Channel off Ambleteuse, Pas-de-Calais, France.^[3]
• Wulin ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Muar River, Malaya by Japanese aircraft. She was later salvaged and entered Japanese service as Unryu Maru.^[1]
• 11-V-1 ( Kriegsmarine): World War II: The guard ship struck a mine and sank off Crete, Greece.^[3]

12 January

• Cyclops ( United Kingdom): World War II: Operation Paukenschlag: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (41°51′N 63°48′W / 41.850°N 63.800°W / 41.850; -63.800) by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 87 of the 182 people aboard. Survivors were rescued by HMCS Red Deer ( Royal Canadian Navy).^[1][35]
• Empire Parsons ( United Kingdom): The cargo ship ran aground at Stroma, Pentland Firth (58°41′N 3°06′W / 58.683°N 3.100°W / 58.683; -3.100) and broke in three. Declared a total loss.^[26]
• Frisco ( Norway): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean off Long Island, New York, United States (44°50′N 60°20′W / 44.833°N 60.333°W / 44.833; -60.333) by U-130 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 13 of her 19 crew. Survivors were rescued by Mjoanes ( Faroe Islands).^[36]
• Quickstep ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the North Sea (51°46′N 1°26′E / 51.767°N 1.433°E / 51.767; 1.433) with the loss of 12 of her 28 crew.^[1]
• Toboali ( Netherlands): World War II: The coaster was bombed and sunk at Bagan Siapi, Dutch East Indies by Japanese aircraft. In 1944 she was salvaged, repaired and entered Japanese service as Aki Maru.^[1]
• U-374 ( Kriegsmarine): World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea east of Cape Spartivento, Calabria, Italy (37°50′N 16°00′E / 37.833°N 16.000°E / 37.833; 16.000) by HMS Unbeaten ( Royal Navy) with the loss of 42 of her 43 crew.
• W-13 ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: The W-13-class minesweeper was sunk by Dutch 4.7" shore batteries at Tarakan (03°15′N 113°35′E / 3.250°N 113.583°E / 3.250; 113.583).^[37]
• W-14 ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: The W-13-class minesweeper was sunk by Dutch 4.7" shore batteries at Tarakan (03°15′N 113°35′E / 3.250°N 113.583°E / 3.250; 113.583).^[38]
• Yngaren ( Sweden): World War II: Convoy HX 168: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (approximately 57°N 26°W / 57°N 26°W / 57; -26) by U-43 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 38 of her 40 crew. The survivors were rescued by a British trawler.^[1][39]

13 January

• Brazos ( Peru): The cargo ship collided with HMS Archer ( Royal Navy off Charleston, South Carolina, United States. She sank the next day as a result of damage sustained.^[40]
• Empire Masefield ( United Kingdom): The cargo ship was bombed and damaged in the North Sea (54°22′N 0°19′W / 54.367°N 0.317°W / 54.367; -0.317) by Luftwaffe aircraft and was beached at Middlesbrough, Yorkshire. She was later refloated, repaired and returned to service.^[1][26]
• Friar Rock ( Panama): World War II: Convoy SC 64: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean 100 nautical miles (190 km) south east of Cape Race, Newfoundland (45°30′N 60°40′W / 45.500°N 60.667°W / 45.500; -60.667 by U-130 ( Kriegsmarine). with the loss of 31 of her 37 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMS Montgomery ( Royal Navy).^[1][41][42]
• Frisco ( Norway): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (44°50′N 60°20′W / 44.833°N 60.333°W / 44.833; -60.333) by U-130 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 13 of her 19 crew. Survivors were rescued by the schooner Mjoanes ( Faroe Islands).^[1][36]
• Lerwick ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the North Sea (54°26′N 0°24′W / 54.433°N 0.400°W / 54.433; -0.400) by Luftwaffe aircraft with the loss of five crew.^[1]

14 January

• Bataysk ( Soviet Union): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk by aircraft off Kerch, Soviet Union.^[43]
• Chepo ( Panama): World War II: Convoy ON 55: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean 230 nautical miles (430 km) west of Rockall, Inverness-shire, United Kingdom (58°30′N 19°40′W / 58.500°N 19.667°W / 58.500; -19.667) by U-43 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 17 of her 38 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMS Sunflower ( Royal Navy)^[1][44]
• Empire Surf ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy ON 55: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean south east of the Faroe Islands (58°42′N 19°16′W / 58.700°N 19.267°W / 58.700; -19.267) by U-43 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 47 of her 53 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMS Alisma ( Royal Navy).^[26][45]
• Mercia ( United Kingdom): World War II: The tug struck a mine and sank in the English Channel (51°31′21″N 2°46′44″W / 51.52250°N 2.77889°W / 51.52250; -2.77889) with the loss of all hands.^[1]
• Norness ( Panama): World War II: the tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (40°28′N 70°50′W / 40.467°N 70.833°W / 40.467; -70.833) by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of one of her 31 crew. Survivors were rescued by USCGC Argo ( United States Coast Guard) and USS Ellyson ( United States Navy) and the fishing vessel Malvina ( United States).^[1][46]
• Turkheim ( Germany): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Syltefjorden, Finnmark, Norway by S-102 ( Soviet Navy).^[1]

15 January

• Catalina ( Portugal): World War II: The trawler, a former Kil-class gunboat, was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (approximately 47°N 52°W / 47°N 52°W / 47; -52) by U-203 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all hands.^[47][48]
• Coimbra ( United Kingdom): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (40°25′N 72°21′W / 40.417°N 72.350°W / 40.417; -72.350 by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 36 of her 46 crew. Survivors were rescued by USS Rowan (DD-405) and another destroyer (both  United States Navy).^[47][49]
• Dayrose ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (46°32′N 53°00′W / 46.533°N 53.000°W / 46.533; -53.000) by U-552 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 38 of her 48 crew. Survivors were rescued by USS Ericsson and USS Stack (both  United States Navy).^[47][50]
• Diala ( United Kingdom): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean 300 nautical miles (560 km) east south east of Cape Race, Newfoundland (44°50′N 46°50′W / 44.833°N 46.833°W / 44.833; -46.833) by U-553 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 57 of her 65 crew. Survivors abandoned ship on 20 January and were rescued by Telefora de Larrinaga ( United Kingdom). On 22 January, the wreck was boarded by eight survivors from Athelcrown ( United Kingdom). They were rescued on 28 January by Saturnus ( Sweden). Diala was discovered still afloat on 21 February and an attempt was made to take her in tow by a Royal Navy ship. The tow parted on 26 February and she was again left adrift. She was torpedoed and sunk on 23 March by U-587 ( Kriegsmarine).^[47][51]
• Empire Bay ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the North Sea off Middlesbrough, Yorkshire (54°41′08″N 1°08′36″W / 54.68556°N 1.14333°W / 54.68556; -1.14333) by Luftwaffe aircraft. All crew were rescued.
• Empire Homer ( United Kingdom): The cargo ship ran aground on Sandray, Outer Hebrides and broke in two, a total loss.^[26]
• IV II ( Kriegsmarine The auxiliary minesweeper struck a mine and sank in Suda Bay.^[1]
• Jalarajan ( India): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean (0°12′S 97°00′E / 0.200°S 97.000°E / -0.200; 97.000 by I-65 ( Imperial Japanese Navy with the loss of four of her 78 crew.^[47]
• Vestland ( Norway): The cargo ship ran aground at Hvalfjord, Iceland and was damaged. She was refloated on 16 March and towed to Reykjavík. Departed under tow on 21 October for repairs at a Tyneside shipyard, but foundered on 24 October in the Atlantic Ocean (50°15′N 11°30′W / 50.250°N 11.500°W / 50.250; -11.500).^[52]
• U-93 ( Kriegsmarine): The Type VIIC submarine was shelled, rammed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean north east of Madeira, Portugal (36°10′N 15°25′W / 36.167°N 15.417°W / 36.167; -15.417) by HMS Hesperus ( Royal Navy) with the loss of six of her 46 crew. Survivors were taken as prisoners of war.^[1][53]
• U-577 ( Kriegsmarine): World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea north west of Mersa Matruh, Egypt (32°40′N 25°48′E / 32.667°N 25.800°E / 32.667; 25.800) by Fairey Swordfish aircraft of 815 Squadron, Fleet Air Arm with the loss of all 43 crew.^[54]

16 January

• Aramis ( Norway): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and damaged in the South Atlantic (5°15′S 3°51′W / 5.250°S 3.850°W / -5.250; -3.850) by Esau ( Kriegsmarine). She was shelled, torpedoed and sunk the next day (5°14′S 3°04′W / 5.233°S 3.067°W / -5.233; -3.067) by Michel ( Kriegsmarine). 23 of her 43 crew were taken aboard Michel as prisoners of war.^[55]
• Empire Chief ( United Kingdom): The tanker ran aground off Reykjavík, Iceland. She was refloated in March 1942, repaired and returned to service.
• HMT Irvana ( Royal Navy): World War II: The naval trawler struck a mine and sank in the North Sea off Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. All crew were rescued.^[47]
• Kolkoshnik ( Soviet Union): The cargo ship was wrecked off the Sambro Island Lighthouse.^[56]
• R. J. Cullen ( United States): The cargo ship ran aground on Barra, Outer Hebrides, Scotland.^[57]
• Senang ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank off Singapore (1°15′N 104°05′E / 1.250°N 104.083°E / 1.250; 104.083) with the loss of 54 of her 93 crew.^[47]
• Thermopylae ( United Kingdom): World War II: The troopship was bombed and damaged in the Mediterranean Sea (34°03′N 24°14′E / 34.050°N 24.233°E / 34.050; 24.233) with the loss of three of her 38 crew and 27 of the 343 troops she was carrying. Survivors were rescued by HMS Arrow and HMS Havock (H43) (both  Royal Navy). Thermopylae was scuttled by HMS Arrow.^[47]
• U-581 ( Kriegsmarine): World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was hedgehogged and sunk in the Faial Channel by HMS Westcott ( Royal Navy) with the loss of four of her 45 crew.^[47]
• Zhan Zhores ( Soviet Navy): World War II: The transport ship was sunk off Feodosia by a magnetic mine.^[3]

17 January

• Enisej ( Soviet Navy): World War II: Convoy PQ-8: The naval trawler was torpedoed and damaged in the Arctic Sea (69°30′N 39°05′E / 69.500°N 39.083°E / 69.500; 39.083) by U-454 ( Kriegsmarine). The ship broke in two, with the bow section sinking.^[3][47]
• HMS Gurkha ( Royal Navy): World War II: Convoy MW 8B: The L-class destroyer was torpedoed and damaged in the Mediterranean Sea off Sidi Barrani, Egypt (31°50′N 26°15′E / 31.833°N 26.250°E / 31.833; 26.250) by U-133 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of ten crew. She was taken in tow by HNLMS Isaac Sweers ( Koninklijk Marine) but later sank. Isaac Sweers rescued 274 crew.^[47]
• I-60 ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: The KD3A/B-class submarine was depth charged and forced to the surface and sunk in a running gun battle in the Sunda Strait off Krakatoa, Dutch East Indies (6°19′30″S 104°49′20″E / 6.32500°S 104.82222°E / -6.32500; 104.82222) with HMS Jupiter ( Royal Navy) with the loss of all but two crew.^[47]
• HMS Matabele ( Royal Navy): World War II: Convoy PQ-8: The Tribal-class destroyer was torpedoed and sunk in the Arctic Sea (69°21′N 35°34′E / 69.350°N 35.567°E / 69.350; 35.567) by U-454 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 236 of her 238 crew.
• MTB 47 ( Royal Navy): World War II: The White 73 foot class Motor Torpedo Boat was sunk by enemy action in the English Channel off Cap Gris Nez, Pas-de-Calais, France. All crew were taken as prisoners of war.^[47]
• RFA Nyholt ( Royal Fleet Auxiliary): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed, shelled and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (45°46′N 54°18′W / 45.767°N 54.300°W / 45.767; -54.300) by U-87 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 20 of the 40 people aboard. Survivors were rescued by HMCS St. Clair ( Royal Canadian Navy).^[47][58][59]
• Octavian ( Norway): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (about 45°N 60°W / 45°N 60°W / 45; -60) by U-203 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 17 crew.^[47][60]
• Rampino ( Italy): World War II: The coaster was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea off Pantelleria (35°59′N 10°45′E / 35.983°N 10.750°E / 35.983; 10.750) by HMS Umbra ( Royal Navy) with the loss of all but one crew.^[47]
• San Jose ( United States): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (39°15′N 74°09′W / 39.250°N 74.150°W / 39.250; -74.150) by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine).^[47]

18 January

• Allan Jackson ( United States): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (35°37′N 74°20′W / 35.617°N 74.333°W / 35.617; -74.333 by U-66 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 22 of her 35 crew. Survivors were rescued by USS Roe ( United States Navy).^[47][61]
• Bantam ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean (7°15′S 126°30′E / 7.250°S 126.500°E / -7.250; 126.500) by I-121 ( Imperial Japanese Navy).^[47]
• Caledonian Monarch ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy SC 53: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (approximately 57°N 26°W / 57°N 26°W / 57; -26) by U-333 ( Kriegsmarine).^[47]
• Charlwood ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy FN 886: The cargo ship collided in the North Sea off the mouth of the Tyne with Lyng ( Norway) and sank.^[62]
• Città di Livorno ( Italy): World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the Mediterranean Sea north of Crete, Greece (35°38′N 24°18′E / 35.633°N 24.300°E / 35.633; 24.300).^[47]
• Dimitrios G Thermiotis ( Greece): World War II: Convoy SC 53: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (approximately 51°N 62°W / 51°N 62°W / 51; -62) by U-86 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 33 crew.^[47][63]
• Eizan Maru ( Japan): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Kii Channel by USS Plunger ( United States Navy).^[3][64]
• Empire Kingfisher ( United Kingdom): The cargo ship struck a submerged object 4 nautical miles (7.4 km) off Cape Sable Island, Nova Scotia, Canada and was holed. She sank the next day.^[26]
• HMT Erin ( Royal Navy): World War II: The naval trawler was sunk at Gibraltar by Italian frogmen.^[47]
• Frances Salman ( United States): World War II: The Design 1099 cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean off Newfoundland by U-552 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 28 crew.^[47][65]
• HMT Honju ( Royal Navy): World War II: The naval trawler was damaged beyond repair at Gibraltar by Italian frogmen with the loss of eight crew.^[47]

19 January

• Brazos ( United Kingdom): World War II: The steamer was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine).^[47]
• Ciltvaira ( Estonia): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean off the east coast of the United States (35°25′N 75°23′W / 35.417°N 75.383°W / 35.417; -75.383) by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of two of her 31 crew. Survivors were rescued by Socony-Vacuum ( United States). Nine crew later reboarded her and she was taken in tow by Bury ( Brazil) but the two was later abandoned and the skeleton crew were taken aboard Bury. Ciltvaira was then taken in tow by USS Sciota ( United States Navy but later foundered at 34°58′N 75°10′W / 34.967°N 75.167°W / 34.967; -75.167.^[66][67]
• City of Atlanta ( USA): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean off the east coast of the United States (35°42′N 75°21′W / 35.700°N 75.350°W / 35.700; -75.350 by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 44 of her 47 crew. Survivors were rescued by the train ferry Seatrain Texas ( United States).^[47][66][68]
• Empire Kingfisher ( United Kingdom): The cargo ship struck a submerged object 4 nautical miles (7.4 km) off Cape Sable Island, Nova Scotia, Canada. The ship was abandoned; she sank the next day.^[26]
• H K D ( United Kingdom): World War II: The steam vessel struck a mine and sank in the North Sea (51°28′12″N 0°52′42″E / 51.47000°N 0.87833°E / 51.47000; 0.87833). Both crew were rescued.^[47]
• RMS Lady Hawkins ( Canada): The ocean liner was torpedoed and sunk between Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, United States and Bermuda (35°00′N 72°30′W / 35.000°N 72.500°W / 35.000; -72.500) by U-66 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 251 of the 322 people aboard. Survivors were rescued by USAT Coamo ( United States) on January 27.^{[47][69][70][71]}
• Mobeka ( Belgium): The cargo ship ran aground off the Mull of Kintyre, Scotland (55°13′N 6°02′W / 55.217°N 6.033°W / 55.217; -6.033). Salvage was abandoned in April 1942.^[72]
• Norvana ( United States): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean south of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 29 crew.^[73]
• USS PT-31 ( United States Navy): World War II: The ELCO 77' -class PT Boat ran aground in Subic Bay, Luzon (14°45′N 120°13′E / 14.750°N 120.217°E / 14.750; 120.217) and was scuttled the next day.^[74]
• HMT Rosemonde ( Royal Navy): World War II: The naval trawler was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean north east of the Azores, Portugal by U-581 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 25 crew.^[75]
• Sørøy ( Norway): World War II: The coaster was torpedoed and sunk in the Norwegian Sea off the Sværholthalvøya peninsula by K-23 ( Soviet Navy) with the loss of two crew.^[76]
• Thermopylæ ( Norway): World war II: Convoy MW 8A: The cargo ship was bombed and damaged in the Mediterranean Sea by a Junkers Ju 88 aircraft of the Luftwaffe with the loss of 33 of the 374 people aboard. Survivors were rescued by HMS Havock ( Royal Navy), which scuttled Thermopylæ.^[77]
• Vaaland ( Norway): World War II: The fishing cutter was shelled and sunk off Berlevåg, Finnmark by K-22 ( Soviet Navy) with the loss of one crew member.^[78]
• Van Imhoff ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Indian Ocean south of Java, Dutch East Indies by Imperial Japanese Navy aircraft. The ship was carrying 478 German civilian internees, who were all killed.^[3][47]

20 January

• Eidsvold ( Norway): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean off Christmas Island, Australia by I-59 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). All crew were rescued.^[47]
• Herstein ( Norway): World War II: Battle of Rabaul: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Rabaul, Papua New Guinea by Japanese aircraft with the loss of one crew member.^[47]
• I-124 ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: The I-121-class submarine was depth charged and sunk in Beagle Gulf 40 miles west of Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia (12°7′S 130°06′E / 12.117°S 130.100°E / -12.117; 130.100) by HMAS Deloraine ( Royal Australian Navy) with the loss of 80 crew.
• Kurtuluş ( Turkey): The cargo ship ran aground at Saraylar, Marmara Island and sank. All 34 crew survived.^[79]
• Markkyn ( United Kingdom): The cargo ship ran aground at Port Logan, Wigtownshire. Refloated on 5 June, repaired and re-entered service as Empire Usk.^[26]
• Maro ( Greece): World War II: Convoy ON 53: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was shelled and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean by U-43 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all hands.^[1][80]
• USS S-36 ( United States Navy): The S-class submarine ran aground on the Taka Bakang Reef in the Makassar Strait, Dutch East Indies. She was scuttled due to damage sustained and to prevent capture by enemy forces. Crew rescued by Attla ( Netherlands).
• Westralia ( Australia): World War II: Battle of Rabaul: The coal hulk was bombed and sunk by Japanese aircraft at Simpson Harbour, New Britain.

21 January

• Alexandra Høegh ( Norway): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (40°53′N 65°56′W / 40.883°N 65.933°W / 40.883; -65.933) by U-130 ( Kriegsmarine). All 28 crew were rescued by the trawler Grand Marshall ( United States).^[47][81]
• Asiatic ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship ran aground at Tara, County Down and was abandoned. She was refloated on 2 April but declared a constructive total loss. Repaired and re-entered service in 1943 as Empire Torridge.^[26]
• Belize ( Norway): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (47°21′N 58°08′W / 47.350°N 58.133°W / 47.350; -58.133) by U-754 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 24 crew.^[47][82]
• Chak Sang ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk off Rangoon, Burma (15°42′N 95°02′E / 15.700°N 95.033°E / 15.700; 95.033 by I-66 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) with the loss of five of her 66 crew.^[47]
• Nord ( Panama): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk off Rangoon (15°28′N 94°36′E / 15.467°N 94.600°E / 15.467; 94.600) by I-66 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). All crew survived.^[47][83]
• HMS Raub ( Royal Navy): World War II: The patrol boat was bombed and sunk at Belawan, Dutch East Indies by Japanese aircraft.^[47]
• Walter Ohlrogge ( Germany): The cargo ship was struck a mine and sank off Norway.^[84]
• William Hansen ( Norway): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (46°56′N 52°47′W / 46.933°N 52.783°W / 46.933; -52.783 by U-754 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of ten of her 19 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMCS Algoma ( Royal Canadian Navy).^[47][85]
• Zannis L Cambanis ( Greece): World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the Strait of Malacca 1°15′N 104°31′E / 1.250°N 104.517°E / 1.250; 104.517) with the loss of two crew.^[47]

22 January

• Athelcrown ( United Kingdom): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (45°06′N 59°54′W / 45.100°N 59.900°W / 45.100; -59.900) by U-82 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of five of her 55 crew. Survivors were rescued by Argos Hill ( United Kingdom), Saturnus ( Sweden) and a Royal Navy ship.^[86]
• Caledonian Monarch ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy SC 63: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (58°39′N 7°36′W / 58.650°N 7.600°W / 58.650; -7.600) by U-588 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 46 crew.^[87]
• Gandia ( Belgium): World War II: Convoy ON 54: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (54°45′N 53°00′W / 54.750°N 53.000°W / 54.750; -53.000) by U-134 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 64 of her 79 crew. Survivors were rescued by USS Bernadou ( United States Navy) and the fishing vessel João Corte Real ( Portugal).^[47][88][89]
• Innerøy ( Norway): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (42°30′N 59°54′W / 42.500°N 59.900°W / 42.500; -59.900) by U-553 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 31 of her 36 crew. Survivors were rescued by Empire Amethyst ( United Kingdom).^[47][90]
• Lemantang ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Belawan, Dutch East Indies by Japanese aircraft.^[47]
• Olympic ( Panama): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (36°01′N 75°30′W / 36.017°N 75.500°W / 36.017; -75.500 by U-66 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 35 crew.^[91]
• HMT Rosemonde ( Royal Navy): World War II: The naval trawler was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Race, Newfoundland by U-203 with the loss of all hands.^[47]
• Vassilos A Polemis ( Greece): World War II: Convoy ON 53: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (42°32′N 52°38′W / 42.533°N 52.633°W / 42.533; -52.633) by U-333 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 21 of her 33 crew.^[47]
• Van Overstraten ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was torpoedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean by I-64 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) with the loss of all hands.^[47]
• Victoria ( Italy): World War II: The troopship was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea by a Fairey Albacore aircraft of 826 Squadron, Fleet Air Arm with the loss of 391 of the 1,455 people aboard.^[47][92]

23 January

• Fukuyo Maru ( Japan): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and damaged in the South China Sea by USS Seadragon ( United States Navy). She was beached on the northern coast of French Indochina (12°00′N 109°00′E / 12.000°N 109.000°E / 12.000; 109.000).
• Heim ( Norway): The coaster ran aground in Hjeltefjorden, Nordaland. She broke in two and sank. All crew survived.^[93]
• HMS Larut ( Royal Navy): World War II: The patrol vessel was bombed and sunk at Sabang, Dutch East Indies by Japanese aircraft. All crew were rescued.^[47]
• Leiesten ( Norway): World War II: Convoy ON 56: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (45°27′N 43°19′W / 45.450°N 43.317°W / 45.450; -43.317) by U-82 with the loss of six of her 36 crew. Survivors were rescued by Agios Georgios ( Greece).^[47][94]
• Navemar ( Spain: World War II: The cargo liner was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean south west of Portugal by Barbarigo ( Regia Marina) with the loss of two of her 36 crew. Survivors were rescued by Isla de Tenerife ( Spain).^[47][95]
• USS Neches ( United States Navy): World War II: The oiler was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean 120 nautical miles (220 km) west of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii (21°01′N 160°06′W / 21.017°N 160.100°W / 21.017; -160.100) by I-72 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) with the loss of 57 of her 183 crew. Survivors were rescued by USS Jarvis ( United States Navy).^[47]
• Tai Sang ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy SS 1: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank off Singapore.^[1]
• Thirlby ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy SC 66: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (43°20′N 66°15′W / 43.333°N 66.250°W / 43.333; -66.250 by U-109 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of five of the 46 people aboard. Survivors were rescued by Belle Isle ( United States).^[47][96]

24 January

• Empire Gem ( United Kingdom): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean (35°06′N 74°58′W / 35.100°N 74.967°W / 35.100; -74.967) by (German submarine U-66 (1940) ( Kriegsmarine). She broke in two, with the bow section sinking. The stern section was taken in tow but sank at 35°02′N 75°33′W / 35.033°N 75.550°W / 35.033; -75.550. 49 of her 51 crew were lost. Survivors were rescued by a United States Coast Guard ship.^[26][47][97]
• Empire Wildebeeste ( United Kingdom): World War II: Convoy SC 100: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (56°20′N 38°10′W / 56.333°N 38.167°W / 56.333; -38.167) by U-596 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of nine of her 31 crew. Survivors were rescued by USS Lang ( United States Navy).
• Hishi ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: Battle of Balikpapan: The patrol boat/submarine chaser, a former Momi-class destroyer, was shelled and sunk (01°24′S 117°02′E / 1.400°S 117.033°E / -1.400; 117.033 by USS John D. Ford, USS Paul Jones, USS Parrott and USS Pope (all  United States Navy).^[3][47]
• Jukka Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: Battle of Balikpapan: The transport ship was bombed and sunk by Royal Netherlands East Indies Army Air Force Martin 139s.^[3]
• Kuretake Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: Battle of Balikpapan: The troop transport was torpedoed and sunk by USS John D. Ford ( United States Navy).^[98][99]
• Myoken Maru ( Japan): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed & sunk in the Celebes Sea north of Kema, Celebes, Dutch East Indies (1°26′N 125°08′E / 1.433°N 125.133°E / 1.433; 125.133) by USS Swordfish ( United States Navy).^[100]
• Nana Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: Battle of Balikpapan: The Seia Maru Class transport was bombed and sunk by Royal Netherlands East Indies Army Air Force Martin 139s in the Makassar Strait east of Bontang, at 00°10′N 118°00′E / 0.167°N 118.000°E / 0.167; 118.000.^[3][98][101]
• Ringstad ( Norway): World War II: Convoy ONS 55: The cargo ship straggled behind the convoy. She was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (45°50′N 51°04′W / 45.833°N 51.067°W / 45.833; -51.067) by U-106 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 30 of the 43 people aboard. Survivors were rescued by USS Swanson ( United States Navy).^[47][102]
• USS S-26 ( United States Navy): The S-class submarine was rammed and sunk in the Gulf of Panama by USS Sturdy with the loss of 46 of her 49 crew.
• Sumanoura Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: Battle of Balikpapan: The transport was shelled, torpedoed and sunk by USS Pope ( United States Navy) while riding at anchor. Only 9 of her crew survived.^[98][103]
• Tai Sang ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the Strait of Malacca (0°55′N 103°35′E / 0.917°N 103.583°E / 0.917; 103.583 with the loss of 33 of the 35 people aboard.^[47]
• Tatsukame Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: Battle of Balikpapan: The Transport (A.K.A Tatsugame) was torpedoed and sunk (01°18′S 117°04′E / 1.300°S 117.067°E / -1.300; 117.067 by USS Parrott and USS Pope (both  United States Navy).^[98]
• Tsuruga Maru ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: Battle of Balikpapan: The Transport was torpedoed and sunk 00°10′N 118°00′E / 0.167°N 118.000°E / 0.167; 118.000 by submarine HNLMS K XVIII ( Koninklijk Marine). 38 troops and 1 crewman killed.^[98]
• Venore ( United States): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (34°50′N 75°20′W / 34.833°N 75.333°W / 34.833; -75.333) by U-66 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 17 of her 42 crew. Survivors were rescued by Australia ( United States) and Tennessee ( United Kingdom).^[47][104]

25 January

• Bruno Heinemann ( Kriegsmarine): World War II: The Type 1934A-class destroyer struck two mines and sank off the coast of Belgium, with the loss of 98 crewmen.
• Culebra ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship was shelled and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (35°30′N 63°25′W / 35.500°N 63.417°W / 35.500; -63.417) by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 45 crew.^[105]
• Dalmatia L ( Italy): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Straits of Messina (37°45′N 15°30′E / 37.750°N 15.500°E / 37.750; 15.500) by HMS Ultimatum ( Royal Navy).^[47]
• Empire Pilgrim ( United Kingdom): The cargo ship ran aground 14 nautical miles (26 km) north of Aberdeen. She was holed and abandoned. Refloated on 16 February, subsequently repaired and returned to service.^[26]
• A cargo ship, possibly Giang Sen ( United Kingdom): was torpedoed and sunk by I-59 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) in Sabang Roads.^[106]
• Mount Kitheron ( Greece): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (47°32′N 52°31′W / 47.533°N 52.517°W / 47.533; -52.517) by U-754 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 12 of the 36 people aboard.^[47]
• Swynfleet ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the North Sea off the Landguard Point Lighthouse, Suffolk. All crew were rescued.^[47]
• Varanger ( Norway): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (38°58′N 74°06′W / 38.967°N 74.100°W / 38.967; -74.100) by U-130 ( Kriegsmarine). All 40 crew were rescued by two American fishing vessels.^[47][107]

26 January

• Kelana ( Royal Navy): World War II: The auxiliary patrol boat was scuttled at Endau, Malaya.^[47]
• Refast ( United Kingdom): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (42°41′N 53°02′W / 42.683°N 53.033°W / 42.683; -53.033) by U-582 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of ten of her 43 crew. Survivors were rescued by Mariposa ( United Kingdom).^[47][108]
• Sanuki Maru ( Japan): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Balikpapan, Netherlands East Indies by Boeing B-17 aircraft of the United States Army Air Force.^[3]
• HMS Shuman ( Royal Navy): World War II: The auxiliary patrol vessel was scuttled and Endau. She was later salvaged and taken to Singapore.^[47]
• Tornator ( Finland): The cargo ship ran aground at Omaisaki, Japan. She broke in two four days later and was declared a total loss.^[83]
• Traveller ( United Kingdom): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (40°00′N 61°45′W / 40.000°N 61.750°W / 40.000; -61.750) by U-106 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 52 crew.^[47][109]
• HNLMS Wega ( Royal Netherlands Navy): World War II: The patrol vessel was bombed and sunk by Japanese aircraft.^[110]
• West Ivis ( United States): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Virginia (35°03′N 73°10′W / 35.050°N 73.167°W / 35.050; -73.167) by U-125 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss with all hands, 9 Gunners and 36 crew.^[47][111]

27 January

• Francis E. Powell ( United States): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (38°05′N 74°53′W / 38.083°N 74.883°W / 38.083; -74.883) by U-130 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of four of her 32 crew. Survivors were rescued by W. C. Fairbanks ( United States) and a United States Coast Guard vessel.^[47][112]
• Harpa ( United Kingdom): World War II: The tanker struck a mine and sank in the Singapore Strait with the loss of 39 of her 40 crew.^[47]
• I-73 ( Imperial Japanese Navy): World War II: The Kaidai-class submarine was torpedoed & sunk in the Pacific Ocean 240 miles (390 km) west of Midway Atoll (28°24′N 178°35′E / 28.400°N 178.583°E / 28.400; 178.583) by USS Gudgeon ( United States Navy).^[113]
• Icarion ( Greece): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (46°02′N 52°22′W / 46.033°N 52.367°W / 46.033; -52.367) by U-754 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of nine crew.^[47][114]
• Jan Cartenesz ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was scuttled at Amboyna, Dutch East Indies.^[47]
• Pan Norway ( Norway): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed, shelled and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (32°56′N 50°27′W / 32.933°N 50.450°W / 32.933; -50.450) by U-123 ( Kriegsmarine). All 40 crew were rescued by Mount Aena (  Switzerland).^{[47][115][116]}
• HMS Thanet ( Royal Navy): World War II: Battle off Endau: The S-class destroyer was sunk off Endau, Malaya by Sendai, Yugiri, Fubuki, Asagiri, and W-1, all ( Imperial Japanese Navy). 37 crewmen killed. 2 later drowned when life boat hit a reef. 61 survivors and 2 R.A.F. pilots rescued by HMS Giang Bee ( Royal Navy). 31 crewmen rescued by Shirayuki ( Imperial Japanese Navy) and made P.O.W.s.^[47]

28 January

• Bjørnvik ( Norway): World War II: Convoy WP 103: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the English Channel off Hartland Point, Devon, United Kingdom by Luftwaffe aircraft with the loss of 17 of her 20 crew.^[117]
• USAT General Royal T. Frank ( United States Army): The transport struck a mine, split in half and sank in one minute 2 miles west of Maui, Hawaii Territory. 17 of 36 aboard were killed.^[47]
• Idar ( United Kingdom): World War II: The paddle steamer was shelled and damaged in the Indian Ocean (10°12′N 80°13′E / 10.200°N 80.217°E / 10.200; 80.217) by I-64 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). She was beached, and later salvaged.^[47]
• M 4104 Glettkau ( Kriegsmarine): World War II: the auxiliary minesweeper was bomber and sunk at Rotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands during an air raid.^[3]
• Ninuccia ( Italy): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea off Mulo Island by HMS Thorn ( Royal Navy).^[47]

29 January

• USCGC Alexander Hamilton ( United States Coast Guard): World War II: Convoy HX 170: The Treasury-class cutter was torpedoed and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean off Reykjavík, Iceland by U-132 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of seven of her 221 crew. She capsized the next day and was scuttled by USS Ericsson ( United States Navy).
• Boelongen ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Padang, Dutch East Indies by Japanese aircraft.^[47]
• Bjørnvik ( Norway): The coaster was bombed and sunk in the English Channel 2.8 nautical miles (5.2 km) due east of Lizard Head, Cornwall by Luftwaffe aircraft with the loss of 16 of her 19 crew.^[47]
• Braconbush ( United Kingdom): World War II: The trawler struck a mine and sank in the North Sea 2 nautical miles (3.7 km) south east of Duncansby Head, Caithness. All crew were rescued.^[47]
• Buyskes ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Padang by Japanese aircraft.^[47]
• Crown ( United Kingdom): : World War II: The fishing boat was bombed and sunk at Rosehearty, Aberdeenshire by Luftwaffe aircraft.^[47]
• Elout ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Padang by Japanese aircraft.^[47]
• Emba ( Soviet Union): World War II: The tanker was bombed and severely damaged in the Black Sea off Kamysh Burun by Luftwaffe aircraft. She was subsequently used as a hulk at Suchumi, where she was torpedoed and sunk on 30 July 1943.^[118]
• Florence Luckenbach ( United States): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean 15 miles east of Madras, India (12°55′N 80°33′E / 12.917°N 80.550°E / 12.917; 80.550) by I-64 ( Imperial Japanese Navy). There are no casualties and all hands reach Madras in Lifeboats.^[47]
• Northgate Scot ( United Kingdom): World War II: The tug was bombed and damaged at Falmouth, Cornwall by Luftwaffe aircraft and was beached. She was later salvaged, repaired and returned to service.^[47]
• Ocean Gift ( United Kingdom): : World War II: The fishing boat was bombed and sunk at Rosehearty by Luftwaffe aircraft.^[47]
• Poelau Tello ( Netherlands): World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at Padang by Japanese aircraft.^[47]
• HMT Sotra ( Royal Navy): World War II: Convoy TA 21: The Naval Whaler was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea 80 miles east of Tobruk (32°07′N 25°30′E / 32.117°N 25.500°E / 32.117; 25.500) by U-431 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 22 crew.^[47][119]

30 January

• Fertilia ( Italy): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Adriatic Sea 10 nautical miles (19 km) north east of Brindisi, Apulia by HMS Thunderbolt ( Royal Navy).^[88]
• Ingøy ( Norway): World War II: The coaster struck a mine and sank off Måsøy, Finnmark with the loss of 16 of the 23 people aboard.^[120]
• Jalatarang ( India): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean (12°50′N 81°00′E / 12.833°N 81.000°E / 12.833; 81.000 by I-64 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) with the loss of 38 of her 49 crew.^[47]
• HMT Loch Alsh ( Royal Navy): The naval trawler was bombed and sunk in the North Sea 30 nautical miles (56 km) north of Skegness, Lincolnshire by Luftwaffe aircraft. All crew survived.^[47]
• Medusa ( Regia Marina): World War II: The Argonaute-class submarine was torpedoed and sunk in the Adriatic Sea north of Pola, Italy (44°54′N 13°46′E / 44.900°N 13.767°E / 44.900; 13.767) by HMS Thorn ( Royal Navy) with the loss of all hands.^[47]
• USC&GSS Research ( United States): World War II: The Coast & Geodetic Survey Ship was damaged indirectly by bombing off Corregidor, partially sinking from leaks on Corregidor and then floating away on the tide and grounding on the Bataan Peninsula in sinking condition.^[121]
• Rochester ( United States): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (37°10′N 73°58′W / 37.167°N 73.967°W / 37.167; -73.967) by U-106 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of four of her 35 crew. Survivors were rescued by USS Roe ( United States Navy).^[47][122]

31 January

• HMS Belmont ( Royal Navy): World War II: Convoy NA 2: The Clemson-class destroyer was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean off Newfoundland (42°02′N 57°18′W / 42.033°N 57.300°W / 42.033; -57.300) by U-82 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 138 crew.^[47]
• HMS Culver ( Royal Navy): World War II: Convoy SL 98: The Banff-class sloop was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean south west of Ireland (48°43′N 20°14′W / 48.717°N 20.233°W / 48.717; -20.233) by U-105 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of all 114 crew.^[47]
• Fertilla ( Italy): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Adriatic Sea north east of Brindisi, Apulia by HMS Thunderbolt ( Royal Navy).^[47]
• Helgoland ( Germany): The cargo ship was lost off the coast of Finland due to ice damage.^[47]
• Jalapalaka ( British India): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Indian Ocean (13°00′N 81°08′E / 13.000°N 81.133°E / 13.000; 81.133 by I-64 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) with the loss of 13 of her 67 crew.^[47]
• Lady Charlotte ( United Kingdom): World War II: The yawl was bombed and sunk at Eyemouth, Berwickshire by Luftwaffe aircraft.^[47]
• San Arcadio ( United Kingdom): World War II: The tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean (38°10′N 63°50′W / 38.167°N 63.833°W / 38.167; -63.833) by U-107 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 41 of her 50 crew. Survivors were rescued by a Martin PBM Mariner aircraft of the United States Navy.^[47][123]
• Spreewald ( Germany): World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean 450 nautical miles (830 km) north of the Azores, Portugal (45°12′N 24°50′W / 45.200°N 24.833°W / 45.200; -24.833) by U-333) ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 72 of the 152 crew and prisoners aboard. At the time of her loss, she was disguised as the Norwegian ship Elk.^[124][125]
• HMT Unicity ( Royal Navy): The auxiliary minesweeper capsized and sank in the North Sea off Blyth, Northumberland during a storm with the loss of one crew member.^[47]

Unknown date

• MAS 512 and MAS 513 (both( Regia Marina)): World War II: The MAS 501 class MAS boats were wrecked at Kefalonia on 21 January 1942 or 24 June 1942.^[126]
• HMS Triumph ( Royal Navy): The T-class submarine disappeared between Dec 30 and January 9th with the loss of all 59 crew. Possibly struck a mine and sank in the Mediterranean Sea.^[1]

References

Ship events in 1942
Ship launches:	1937	1938	1939	1940	1941	1942	1943	1944	1945	1946	1947
Ship commissionings:	1937	1938	1939	1940	1941	1942	1943	1944	1945	1946	1947
Ship decommissionings:	1937	1938	1939	1940	1941	1942	1943	1944	1945	1946	1947
Shipwrecks:	1937	1938	1939	1940	1941	1942	1943	1944	1945	1946	1947

Shipwrecks 1939–45, by month 1939 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Unknown date 1940 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Unknown date 1941 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Unknown date 1942 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Unknown date 1943 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Unknown date 1944 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Unknown date 1945 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Unknown date