Harwich patrols and preparations for a Cuckoo torpedo raid

Harwich Force patrolled aggressively toward the German coast to interfere with German patrols and naval movements. Such activity also helped prepare for the planned Cuckoo torpedo raid on Wilhelmshaven. Repeating the early stages of a larger operation could accustom observers to them and delay recognition when the force finally continued farther. A completely unfamiliar movement would be more likely to provoke an immediate alert. The plan required additional Grand Fleet destroyers, so detachments working with Harwich Force also made a reinforced force look less unusual.