The matter was seen as critical by British political and military leaders because Spain was seeking cession of the territory in peace talks.

The British Channel Fleet, which was under the command of Admiral Richard Howe, had a number of conflicting objectives to manage in the summer 1782.

Even though intelligence received on 25 August indicated the Dutch fleet was in port at Texel, ten ships of the line were despatched to the North Sea while the convoy for Gibraltar took shape at Spithead.

[3] Admiral Howe met with all of his captains, and gave detailed instructions for ensuring the safe arrival of the transports.

[3] Taking advantage of a west-northwest wind, de Córdova's fleet sailed in pursuit, while the Spanish admiral sent his smaller vessels to shadow the British.

Admiral Howe, seeking to avoid battle in the straits, weighed anchor and sailed west, with the allies following.

Once clear of the straits, he reduced the fleet's sails, offering de Córdova, who held the weather gage, the option of engaging in battle.

The British returned fire, while Howe signalled 'retreat all sail', making at least 14 Franco-Spanish ships redundant,[clarification needed] among them two three-deckers.

The timely resupply combined with the failed Franco-Spanish attack of 13 September on Gibraltar also greatly strengthened the British hand at peace talks begun earlier in October.