Musashi - Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and a team of researchers have discovered the shattered wreck of a Japanese World War II battleship last seen about 70 years ago after it was sunk by US forces in October 1944.

On Friday, for the very first time in years, images of the Musashi, which has been described as one of the most sophisticated battleships ever assembled, was shown in the Sibuyan Sea in central Philippines.

According to reports, Paul Allen announced the discovery of the highly sought after battleship eight days ago, after a mission that lasted about eight years.

The footage of the Musashi features propellers, giant gun turrets, a torpedo-damaged hull and a plane wing resting on silt. The images were reportedly beamed live from about a kilometer (0.6 miles) below the water's surface by an unmanned mini-submarine.

"We think we're conveying something to the world which is significant. It also teaches us about the past and what happened," said Yannick Olson, captain of Allen's yacht, where the mini-sub was being directed.

Reports indicate that the wreckage of the Musashi was scattered and partially buried. Additionally experts believe that the wreck may also be the graveyard of some of the over 1,000 crew members killed in combat.

However, Allen's footage of the Musashi did not show any human remains.

"It's quite clear it didn't land on the bottom in one piece," Olson said. "The destruction was total."

Reports indicate that it took U.S. forces about four hours and more than 25 direct hits to sink the Musashi, which was one of the two largest warships in World War II during the battle of Leyte.

The Philippine government has said they would take control of the wreckage and collaborate with Allen's team over the exploration of the Musashi.

"Since my youth, I have been fascinated with World War II history, inspired by my father's service in the U.S. Army," said Allen, 62.

"The Musashi is truly an engineering marvel and, as an engineer at heart, I have a deep appreciation for the technology and effort that went into its construction."

"I am honored to play a part in finding this key vessel in naval history and honoring the memory of the incredible bravery of the men who served aboard her."