The vessel has been taken apart almost piece by piece, fully repaired and restored to working order probably for the first time since it was operational in 1944-45.

Based on historical research, FSL manufactured authentic replica parts in its workshops, culminating in the one man submarine being returned to the water. After being inspected by a former submarine pilot in the German Navy's wartime Kriegsmarine division, the vessel carried out a test dive in a dock at the Naval Base.

Biber 105 will now be returned to display in the museum's weapons gallery.

For the team of FSL apprentices, invaluable experience was gained in working on a project which involved hull repairs, restoration of the engine, gearbox and other machinery, rebuilding the electric motor and replacing the electrics and controls instrumentation. The restoration has been recorded by a Channel 4 television documentary team and will feature in the series Salvage Squad, due to be shown early next year.

MJ Information No: 18915