British bomber shot down over the Ionian Sea off Vlorë (K7104)

What happened

The incident involved a British bomber that was engaged by enemy forces during operations in the region. The aircraft came under attack from an Italian fighter, which successfully targeted and disabled the bomber. Following the engagement, the damaged aircraft lost control and descended into the sea off the coast of Vlorë. The impact with the water resulted in the total loss of the airframe. All three individuals on board perished in the crash, leaving no survivors from the crew.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary cause of the accident was combat action. The aircraft was not lost due to mechanical failure or pilot error but was specifically shot down by an Italian fighter. This engagement led directly to the loss of the aircraft and the fatalities among the personnel assigned to the mission.