The Battle of Diu was fought in February 1509, marking a pivotal clash in the age of maritime empires. The Portuguese, led by the commander Francisco de Almeida, faced an extensive coalition of forces including the naval powers of the Ottoman Empire, the Republic of Venice, and local rulers such as the Sultan of Gujarat and the Zamorin of Calicut. This naval confrontation took place near the port of Diu, strategically important for trade in the Indian Ocean. The coalition sought to curb Portuguese expansion and restore their own trading interests in the region.

The Portuguese fleet, although smaller, was well-equipped with superior naval tactics and artillery. As the battle unfolded, the Portuguese forces executed a well-coordinated attack that disrupted the larger fleet's formation. This led to significant losses for the coalition forces, particularly with the sinking of several ships and the capture of key vessels. Despite the odds, the Portuguese victory at Diu solidified their naval power and territorial claims in the Indian Ocean, greatly impacting trade routes and influencing the dynamics among local rulers and European powers.

Following this significant victory, the Portuguese established a stronghold in India, marking the beginning of a long period of Portuguese influence in the region. The ramifications of the battle extended beyond immediate territorial gains; it also altered the balance of power in maritime trade, affecting commercial interactions across Europe and Asia. The conflict exemplified the fierce competition for control of lucrative trade routes during the Age of Discovery, setting the stage for future confrontations in the years to come.