The Baltic's financial and strategic value justified a Royal Navy force that grew from 44 warships in 1808 to 62 in 1809. Saumarez had to protect commerce, contain the Russian fleet, resist Denmark, and manage relations with Sweden at the same time. When Napoleon compelled Sweden to declare war on Britain, formal hostility did not end practical cooperation. Saumarez's diplomacy kept trade and security arrangements functioning beneath the declared conflict. His command shows naval power working through relationships and restraint as well as blockade and battle.
Notable Point · 2:39:29-2:40:29
Saumarez combined fleet power with Baltic diplomacy
Sir James Saumarez used a large seasonal fleet to protect trade, contain Russian and Danish threats, and preserve informal cooperation with Sweden even after it declared war on Britain.