Six German torpedo boats returning from a raid intended to bombard Calais and Dover ran into HMS Swift and HMS Broke near midnight. The encounter differed sharply from the previous year's hesitation. Swift torpedoed G85 while Broke rammed G42 and fought at close range, leaving two German boats sunk. Broke became locked to G42 while still engaging other boats, and Swift later helped tow the more heavily damaged British ship home. Immediate attack carried a higher risk of friendly fire, but hesitation had already proved dangerous in 1916. Both British destroyers suffered damage and 22 men were killed, yet their mutually supporting action prevented the Germans from controlling the engagement.
Chapter · 59:48-1:02:35
Swift and Broke attack at the 1917 Battle of Dover Strait
HMS Swift and HMS Broke met six returning German torpedo boats with immediate torpedo, gun, and ramming attacks.