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UPY 2026 Wrecks - Winner
'The Guns of the Nagato'
Niclas Andersson
IJN Nagato is a famed Japanese battleship from which Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto is said to have issued the order to attack Pearl Harbor. Seized by the United States at the end of World War II, she was later towed to Bikini Atoll and used as a target ship during Operation Crossroads, the early nuclear weapons tests. Today Nagato rests upside down at roughly 52 meters, making it a demanding but highly rewarding dive. On descent, divers are greeted by four enormous propellers, while the standout features are the twin stern guns, best approached from the port side. This image was carefully staged by a four-person team to maximize safety and reduce silt, since visibility can be limited and particles stir easily.
Judge's comment: A powerful image of powerful subjects complemented by well placed lighting produces an image which grabs one’s attention immediately and still has plenty of subtle detail to entertain the eye on repeated viewings. A credit to the team.
Peter Rowlands
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