Hornby requested troops, gathered detachments from British Mediterranean garrisons, and brought them through the straits with the fleet. The account stresses the local advantages that made the move possible, including damaged controlled minefields and a fort commander who chose not to fire. Once present, Hornby used the force to stiffen the Ottoman defence rather than merely wait offshore. He also assessed the Ottoman commander facing the Russians and backed a more effective deputy, showing how far his operational initiative extended once passage was authorized.
Notable Point · 33:00-36:49
Taking the fleet through the Dardanelles
Hornby used the passage through the Dardanelles to bring British ships and troops into a crisis where the Ottoman position was close to collapse.