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    Buka Passage Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB) Papua New Guinea (PNG)
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USN April 2, 1942
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USN December 15, 1942

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13th AF Nov 4, 1943

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13th AF 1944

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17th PRS Nov 11, 1944

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RNZAF March 1945
Location
Buka Passage roughly one kilometer wide with strong currents located in Autonomous Region of Bougainville (Bougainville Province) in Papua New Guinea (PNG). To the south is Bonis on the northern tip of Bougainville Island and to the north is Buka Island. In the center of the passage is Sohano Island. To the south is Matchin Bay. Prewar and during the Pacific War, part of Kieta District in the Territory of New Guinea and considered part of the Northern Solomons (North Solomon Islands). During 1975 became Bougainville Province in Papua New Guinea (PNG). On June 25, 2002 became part of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB). Today located in Buka Rural LLG, Northern Bougainville District.

Wartime History
During 1942, occupied by the Japanese for the duration of the Pacific War. During 1942-1943 used as a seaplane anchorage and landing area and Japanese ships including warships, transports and barges.

Allied missions against Buka Passage
November 10, 1943–June 10, 1944

Today
Buka Passage is used by local banana boats transporting passengers and cargo between Buka and Bougainville. Also, larger vessels docking at Buka wharf.

Buka Seaplane Base (Buka Passage)
Japanese seaplane base and anchorage

E13A Jake Manufacture Number 6214
Upside down wreckage wings, engine and center float.

Stern Out of Water Shipwreck
During the 1970s the stern was visible above the surface at low tide.

On Its Side Shipwreck
Rests on its side on a 60' bottom

Propeller Shipwreck
This sunken ship has a propeller attached

References
Pub. 126 Sailing Direction (Enroute) pages 237 (PDF page 242)

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Last Updated
January 5, 2024

 

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