Sinking of the Ottoman Monitor Seyfi(1877)
Romania / Russia (joint) victorynavalDanube River near Măcin
Background
Romanian and Russian forces coordinated Danube operations preparing for the main river crossing. Neutralizing Ottoman monitors was essential to securing the crossing route.
Campaign: Russo-Turkish War 1877-78
Forces Engaged
Victor
Romania / Russia (joint)
Commander: Major Ioan Murgescu (RO)
Strength: 29 (est.)
Defeated
Ottoman Empire
Commander: Unknown
Strength: 50 (est.)
The Battle
Romanian torpedo launch Rândunica with Russian boats sank the 400-ton Ottoman monitor Seyfi using spar torpedoes.
“"A powerful explosion followed, with debris raising up to 40 meters. After ten minutes the monitor sunk." — Russian naval report
Casualties & Outcome
?
Romania / Russia (joint)
casualties
50
Ottoman Empire
casualties
0 casualties (Romanian-Russian crew); ~50 Ottoman crew lost with ship
Romania / Russia (joint) achieved victory over Ottoman Empire.
Ottoman warships withdrew from exposed Danube positions whenever torpedo boats sighted, ceding river control to allied forces.
Historical Record
Significance & Legacy
First torpedo attack resulting in a ship sinking in Romanian or Russian naval history.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was the Sinking of the Ottoman Monitor Seyfi?
- The Sinking of the Ottoman Monitor Seyfi took place in 1877. May 25–26, 1877.
- Who won the Sinking of the Ottoman Monitor Seyfi?
- The Romania / Russia (joint) were victorious against the Ottoman Empire.
- What was the significance of the Sinking of the Ottoman Monitor Seyfi?
- First torpedo attack resulting in a ship sinking in Romanian or Russian naval history.
Related Battles
Opening Artillery Duel at Calafat1877 · Romania victoryRomanian Danube Crossing at Corabia1877 · Romania victoryBattle of Rahova1877 · Romania victoryFirst Assault on Grivița1877 · Romania victorySecond Assault on Grivița1877 · Ottoman Empire victorySiege of Plevna1877 · Romania & Russia victory
View all War of Independence battles →