In 896, a small Danish fleet of six ships raided the Isle of Wight and Hampshire coast. Alfred deployed his new enlarged longships, broader and higher than Danish or Frisian designs. In two engagements off the Hampshire coast, the West Saxon ships beached three Danish vessels and killed many Vikings. The action is notable as the first recorded successful English naval defence using purpose-built warships and demonstrates Alfred's naval innovation.
Three Danish ships captured; crews killed; two English ships ran aground
Alfred's fleet: c. 6–9 ships. Danish raiders: 6 ships.
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