100) was enacted as the first independent fleet-related decree of the Japanese Navy, and the fleet was to be composed of three or more warships.

On 19 June 1894, in response to the deterioration of Japan-China relations, all fleet regulations were revised (Edict No.

71), and torpedo boats and transport vessels were attached to the fleet as specified by the Edict.

The edict also stipulated that the staff should be enhanced and that ships could be dispatched outside the patrol areas.

On 13 July a Guard Fleet consisting of nine outdated ships and small ships with a flagship Katsuragi was formed, and soon after on 19 July it was renamed the Western Sea Fleet.