The Battle of Elli was a naval engagement fought during the First Balkan War, showcasing the evolving capabilities of the Royal Hellenic Navy. The battle took place near the island of Chios in the Aegean Sea, where Greek forces sought to assert dominance over the waters against the declining Ottoman Empire. Under the command of Rear Admiral Pavlos Kountouriotis, the Greek fleet, which comprised several modern warships including the battleship Georgios Averof, engaged the Ottoman Navy in a fierce confrontation. The Greek Navy's strategic use of light, maneuverable vessels and their superior naval tactics played a crucial role in overwhelming the larger, but less technologically advanced, Ottoman forces.The encounter began on the morning of December 16, as the Greek ships intercepted the Ottoman fleet, which included the battleships Mecidiye and Turgut Reis. The engagement resulted in the sinking of the Turkish cruiser Hamidiye and substantial damage to other ships in the Ottoman fleet, leading to a commanding Greek victory. This success was celebrated in Greece as a demonstration of national strength and boosted morale as the First Balkan War progressed. Overall, it contributed significantly to the reclamation of territories previously under Ottoman control, setting the stage for subsequent battles in the campaign.