The Åland mine operation undone by intercepted signals

In July 1915, Albatross joined a German force laying mines around the strategically important Åland Islands. The islands sat across approaches linking the northern Baltic and the route toward Saint Petersburg, so mines in nearby waters could obstruct movement through both areas. The opposing formations were cruiser-led forces with torpedo craft, and fog had already separated part of the Russian formation before contact. A radio report that the mission had finished was intercepted and decoded, enabling the Russian squadron to abandon its bombardment plan and pursue the minelayers. Repeated German transmissions then helped naval staff keep the Russians informed. Communications discipline could be as important as the minefield itself.