Mosquito Fighter Bomber

The Mosquito Fighter Bomber is an advanced aviation wreck dive off Malta's east coast, where a World War II de Havilland Mosquito rests on the Mediterranean seabed. This wooden-framed aircraft, nicknamed the Wooden Wonder for its revolutionary plywood construction, adds a unique element to Malta's impressive collection of wartime wreck dives. The Mosquito lies on the sandy bottom with portions of its distinctive twin-boom airframe still identifiable. The aircraft's wooden construction means it has deteriorated more significantly than metal aircraft wrecks, but the engines, undercarriage components, and denser structural elements remain recognisable. The wreck's layout on the seabed tells the story of its final moments. The aircraft's metal components have attracted marine colonisation, with sponges and encrusting organisms establishing on the engine blocks and undercarriage. Fish have adopted the wreck, with the remaining structure providing shelter for Mediterranean reef species. The wreck is compact enough to be fully explored during a single dive. The Mosquito's wartime history adds depth to the diving experience. This versatile aircraft served as a fighter-bomber, reconnaissance platform, and night fighter during the Mediterranean campaign. Its loss in Maltese waters is part of the broader story of the island's crucial wartime role. The advanced rating reflects the depth, the fragile nature of the remaining wreck structure, and the need for precise buoyancy to avoid disturbing the sandy seabed around the airframe. Malta's excellent visibility ensures the aircraft is visible from distance during descent. Water temperatures range from 15 to 26 degrees across the seasons. The Mosquito Fighter Bomber is a unique addition to Malta's wreck diving portfolio, combining aviation history with Mediterranean marine ecology.