Russell turns superiority into victory at Barfleur

Russell's victory over Tourville's fleet demonstrated his professional competence, although the allies held a large numerical advantage. He brought eighty-two ships of the line, three fireships, and 39,000 men against forty-four French ships of the line, two frigates, a fireship, and 21,000 men. Both sides suffered similar personnel losses, but Russell lost two ships of the line and three fireships while the French lost fifteen ships of the line, two frigates, and a fireship. Barfleur and La Hogue frustrated an invasion attempt and triggered a major celebratory fleet review. Tourville still displayed considerable skill in conducting a fighting retreat, which distinguishes competent command from strategic victory.