Both fleets were far from dependable support and therefore avoided risks that could leave damaged ships beyond repair. Their actions could remain tactically indecisive because neither side could easily replace a lost squadron in the Indian Ocean. Pocock nevertheless secured enough sea control for Company forces to conduct their operations ashore against French and Dutch rivals. The example separates operational sea control from the simpler question of who won a single fleet action.
Chapter · 2:13:09-2:15:30
Cuddalore and limited sea control in India
The indecisive fighting off Cuddalore still mattered because cautious British manoeuvre gave the East India Company room to act ashore.