All Battles

Battle of the Downs

1639 • Ärmelkanal Seeschlacht

Historical Overview

Destruction of the Spanish fleet by Maarten Tromp; end of Spain as a naval power.

Quick Facts

Outcome:Decisive Dutch victory.

Dutch Navy

  • Commander: Maarten Tromp
  • Strength: 95 Schiffe
  • Casualties: Minimal

Spanish Armada

  • Commander: Antonio de Oquendo
  • Strength: 77 Schiffe
  • Casualties: ca. 60 Schiffe

Strategic Context

Spain's attempt to send troops to Flanders by sea.

Conflict / War

Eighty Years' War

Dutch victory.

Related Literature

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Historical Locations

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