Debris found from a missing Indonesian submarine was found Saturday after a three-day search and suggests the vessel has sunk, CNN reported.
The disappearance of KRI Nanggala-402 off the coast of Bali Wednesday morning, prompted a frantic effort by Indonesia rescuers to find the sub before oxygen supplies ran out.
Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and India also participated in the scramble to find the 53 crew members. Before the debris was picked up, hopes had already begun to fade, however, as authorities estimated there was only enough oxygen on the vessel to last until early Saturday morning.
The United States, Australia, Germany and France have all also offered aid.
“Indonesia is a good friend and strategic partner. We were all deeply saddened to see the reports about their submarine and our thoughts and our prayers are with the Indonesian sailors, the Indonesian navy, and of course all their families,” Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.
It’s unclear what caused the submarine to sink, though an oil slick found near the sight of the believed wreckage suggests some form of fuel tank damage could have played a role.