Rufiji Delta Campaign and SMS Königsberg

After attacking Allied shipping in the Indian Ocean, the German light cruiser SMS Königsberg entered the Rufiji Delta for repairs and concealment. The delta’s maze of channels, mangroves and shallow water prevented ordinary British warships from approaching closely.

The Royal Navy blockaded the coast, used aircraft for reconnaissance and brought shallow-draught monitors into the river. Königsberg was disabled in July 1915, although its crew and guns continued to support German land forces.