A minor but illustrative engagement showing British naval dominance in the Indian Ocean during the French Revolutionary Wars.
Key Facts
- Date
- 5 May 1794
- Duration of engagement
- 1 hour 20 minutes
- French frigate captured
- Duguay Trouin
- British frigate
- HMS Orpheus
- British commander
- Captain Henry Newcome
- Theater
- Indian Ocean, near Isle de France (Mauritius)
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
A British squadron had been blockading the French island of Isle de France (Mauritius) since early 1794. On 5 May, the squadron spotted two unidentified vessels approaching, which were identified as the French frigate Duguay Trouin—previously captured from the East India Company—and a small brig.
The British squadron gave chase using a favourable wind. HMS Orpheus reached the French frigate first and quickly disabled it by raking the sluggish vessel, which was hampered by poor sailing qualities and a crew weakened by illness. After one hour and twenty minutes, the French captain surrendered.
Captain Henry Newcome of HMS Orpheus took possession of the captured Duguay Trouin and brought her as a prize to port in India, reinforcing British naval control over Indian Ocean waters and demonstrating the vulnerability of French operations in the region.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Captain Henry Newcome.
Side B
1 belligerent