On July 23, 1943, amidst the broader conflicts of World War II, British destroyers HMS Eclipse and HMS Laforey were patrolling the Mediterranean Sea when they were engaged by the Italian submarine Ascianghi. Prior to its sinking, the Ascianghi launched a torpedo at the British cruiser HMS Newfoundland, hitting not only its intended target but also raising alarms of an imminent threat to Allied naval operations in the region. This incident underscored the critical nature of Mediterranean naval operations, which were pivotal for supply lines and military engagements in North Africa and southern Europe.

As the torpedo struck HMS Newfoundland, the British destroyers quickly responded to the attack. Utilizing their training, technology, and experience in anti-submarine warfare, HMS Eclipse and HMS Laforey tracked down the Ascianghi. Engaging in a rapid and coordinated attack, the destroyers used depth charges and gunfire to locate and ultimately sink the Italian submarine, neutralizing an immediate threat to Allied ships in the theater.

This engagement marked a significant moment in the ongoing naval battles in the Mediterranean, showcasing the tactical maneuvers employed by both sides. The sinking of Ascianghi was not only a tactical success for the British but also part of the larger strategic contest in controlling the Mediterranean sea lanes. Allied naval superiority was a determining factor in securing overall military objectives in the region during this phase of the war.