The French invasion plan expected its Mediterranean and Atlantic forces to combine. Boscawen intercepted the breakout at Lagos, capturing three French ships, destroying two, and leaving five more blockaded in neutral Cádiz. Only two reached Rochefort. Without waiting for further direction, Boscawen brought his available ships north, giving Hawke more strength and more flexibility to rotate vessels while maintaining the watch on Brest.
Notable Point · 3:17:57-3:19:34
Lagos prevents French fleet concentration
Edward Boscawen’s victory at Lagos stopped most Mediterranean reinforcements and then added his own ships to Hawke’s blockade.