Commanded by Rear Admiral Sir Christopher Cradock, the Fourth Cruiser
Squadron which engaged the German squadron off Coronel comprised of
two old armoured cruisers, one light cruiser and an armed merchantman.
The crews of both armoured cruisers were principally reservists, who
having been recalled to active service in July 1914 and had little
or no gunnery practice before the Battle of Coronel.
Included with these ships is HMS Canopus and HMS Defence, the former
was part of Cradock's squadron however was not at the battle, due
to reported engine problems and a reduced speed, Cradock has assigned
her to protect his colliers. HMS Defence was due to join with Cradock's
squadron but was re-assigned by the Admiralty without informing Cradock;
at the time of the battle Cradock was still expecting her. |
