Since the British submarines and "Thorough", were in the same general area as "Bullhead", and and passed through in transit at various times, it is difficult to determine precisely which of the many Japanese anti-submarine attacks was the one that sank "Bullhead". However, one occurred on 6 August 1945, when a Mitsubishi Ki-51 from the 73rd Independent Chutai (literally "company" or squadron) of the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force attacked with depth charges. It claimed two direct hits, and for ten minutes thereafter, there was a great amount of gushing oil and air bubbles rising in the water. Since the position given is very near the Balinese coast, it is presumed that the proximity of mountain peaks shortened "Bullhead"'s radar range and prevented her from receiving a warning of the plane's approach. 84 men were lost while serving on USS "Bullhead" during her service.