Second Svensksund restores Sweden's political independence

Gustav III commanded a defensive battle in waters suited to Sweden's coastal force. The narrows limited vessel size and prevented Russia from translating its infrastructure and heavy first rates into the same advantage they provided in open water. The Russians brought nearly 300 vessels and about 19,000 personnel but lost roughly a quarter to a third of their ships and suffered around 10,000 killed, wounded, or captured. The Treaty of Värälä changed no borders, yet removed Russia's ability to dominate Swedish internal affairs. On that basis, the war counts as a meaningful Swedish success.