The raid had a second strategic purpose: a small British squadron operating deep in German waters might tempt elements of the High Seas Fleet into an engagement with the supporting Grand Fleet. The Grand Fleet was too distant to intervene promptly if the raiders met German surface ships, exposing the risk behind the plan. German warships did not take the bait and the response came from aircraft and U-boats instead. Even so, Cuxhaven established a recurring British pattern of carrier-borne attacks on land targets and attempts to intercept Zeppelins for much of the war.
Notable Point · 17:00-17:35
Cuxhaven as fleet bait and an operational template
Beyond attacking airship sheds, the Cuxhaven force tried to draw out German warships and established a pattern for later North Sea carrier raids.