A Wehrmacht motorcycle and the remains of two German soldiers have been recovered from the Danube River in Budapest more than 80 years after World War II ended. The discovery, announced by the German War Graves Commission in August, offers a chance to identify and account for soldiers who have been missing since the war.

The motorcycle, a DKW NZ 350-1 model, was found caked in mud and rust but largely intact, with its frame, wheels, fuel tank and storage boxes well preserved due to the protective properties of harbour mud mixed with oil. Two identification tags were discovered with the remains, both still intact, though their decipherment is ongoing and the soldiers' identities remain unknown. The cause of death is speculative—whether from attempting to cross the frozen Danube, drowning, or other circumstances remains unclear. Investigators will examine the remains for clues including physical characteristics and any personal belongings, comparing findings with military records held by the German Federal Archives.