Location
The Gulf of Papua is located off the southern coast of New Guinea. Today, borders Gulf Province, Central Province and Western Province (Fly) in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Some of New Guinea's largest rivers, such as the Fly River, Turama River, Kikori River and Purari River (Parrarri River), flow into the gulf, producing a large delta region. The southern border gulf is defined as a line from the southwestern corner of the Fly River delta to the west, and to the east at Cape Suckling, roughly 70km northwest of Port Moresby. Also known as "Papuan Gulf".

Wartime History
Although no combat occurred in the Gulf of Papua, many Allied aircraft and ships traveled over or above this vast area.

On March 10, 1942 United States Navy (USN) Task Force 11 (TF-11) including the USS Lexington (CV-2) and USS Yorktwon (CV-5) launched carrier aircraft from the Gulf of Papua then flying over the Owen Stanley Range to attack Salamaua and Lae on the north coast of New Guinea.

MV Mamutu
Sunk August 6, 1942 by Japanese submarine RO-33

B-17F Flying Fortress 41-24383
Pilot Christopher ditched  January 7, 1943

MV Matoma (588)
Sunk Sunk without trace in the Gulf of Papua, date unknown

Contribute Information
Do you have photos or additional information to add?

Last Updated
August 17, 2021