History

The M4 Sherman was the principal medium tank used by the United States and Allied forces during the Second World War. More than 49,000 examples were produced, making it one of the most numerous armoured fighting vehicles of the conflict. Only the Soviet T-34 was manufactured in greater numbers during the war.

The Sherman proved to be a highly adaptable design and was developed into numerous specialist variants to fulfil a wide range of military roles. These included flamethrower tanks, rocket-launching versions, mine-clearing vehicles fitted with rotating flails, amphibious models and armoured bulldozers.

The two Sherman tanks now lying off Europa Point formed part of Gibraltar's post-war military equipment. Following the end of the conflict, they were displayed on land for several years near Europa Point, where they were filled with rocks as static features. During the 1960s, both vehicles were removed and deliberately deposited offshore.

Today the tanks rest on a rocky seabed at a depth of approximately 6 to 7 metres. One vehicle remains upright and is largely intact, while the second lies inverted with its turret detached and resting alongside the hull. The surrounding seabed is characterised by low rocky outcrops that provide habitat for a variety of marine life.

Further Reading

Those wishing to explore Gibraltar's submerged military heritage in greater detail are encouraged to read Underwater Gibraltar: A Guide to the Rock’s Submerged Sites, by Phil Smith and Darren Fa. The book provides a comprehensive account of Gibraltar's underwater archaeological sites, including wartime wrecks, military relics and artificial reefs. Copies are available from the Gibraltar National Museum, as well as selected booksellers and online retailers.

Sherman Tank turret.