The UN warships were able to penetrate 50 kilometres (31 mi) inland from the Yellow Sea to a wide anchorage at the confluence of a number of narrow channels which were still navigable at high tide.

Indeed, despite requiring careful navigation, and the constant risk of grounding amidst the numerous sand and mud banks, for a number of weeks the UN ships were able to move along the narrow channels to bombard targets from positions close inshore, enabling them to dominate the Han by both day and night.

The Chinese engaged with 75 mm field-guns, mortars and small arms fire from a range of 2,000 metres (2,200 yd), while Murchison responded with the ships' 4-inch main armament and Bofors.

The Australians were struck repeatedly by small arms fire and shrapnel, but achieved direct hits on a 75 mm gun and an enemy trench.

As the rain eased the Murchison began to proceed again but was suddenly engaged once more, this time from further to the west by a second group of Chinese weapons from a range of just 600 metres (660 yd).

[4] Despite the incident, UN river patrols continued, although they were significantly restricted due to the increasing threat posed to the ships from Chinese positions along the shore.