Battle of Andros (1790)

The Battle of Andros, also known as the Battle of Kafireas, occurred on 17–18 May 1790 during the Russo-Turkish War. Lambros Katsonis, a Greek privateer in Russian service, faced an Ottoman-Algerian fleet near Cape Kafireas and Andros. Although Katsonis lost five ships and his flotilla ceased to exist as an operational unit, he escaped and reconstituted his forces, remaining active until the war's end.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. In spring 1789, Katsonis formed a fleet in Trieste to raid Ottoman shipping. He fortified Kea as a base and conducted raids in the northern Aegean, including a blockade of the Dardanelles. After repairs in the Ionian Islands, he returned to the Aegean in early spring 1790 with nine vessels, aiming to confront Ottoman forces.

Engagement. Katsonis sailed to meet an Ottoman squadron but was delayed by adverse winds. On 17 May, his fleet encountered the enemy in the straits between Cape Kafireas and Andros. The Ottoman government had called on North African fleets, catching Katsonis off guard with his forces dispersed. He was caught between an Ottoman and an Algerian fleet.

Outcome. The battle resulted in a major Ottoman victory, with Katsonis losing five ships and his flotilla ceasing to exist as an operational unit. However, the Ottomans suffered heavy casualties. Katsonis managed to escape, steering his vessel into Kea's harbor, where he was blockaded. He subsequently reconstituted his forces and remained active in the Aegean.

People involved

Sources

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