The Battle of Chesma occurred during the Russo-Turkish War (1768-1774), a conflict driven by Russian ambitions to gain territory and influence in the Black Sea and the Ottoman Empire's desire to maintain control over its territories. The engagement took place near Chesma Bay, located on the coast of the island of Chios in the Aegean Sea, where the Russian fleet aimed to weaken Ottoman naval power. Under Admiral Grigory Spiridov's command, the Russian force consisted of 26 warships supported by fire ships—vessels loaded with explosives designed to be set ablaze and sent into enemy ships.

The Ottomans, commanded by the experienced Admiral Hasan Pasha, had a larger fleet comprising 27 vessels but were less coordinated in their strategy. The initial Ottoman attacks were met with a Russian counteroffensive, including the innovative use of fire ships that ignited portions of the Ottoman fleet. The fire ships' destructive power resulted in considerable chaos and confusion among the Ottoman ranks, ensuring a pivotal advantage for the Russians. The battle culminated in a remarkable Russian victory, with numerous Ottoman ships destroyed and others fleeing.

This triumph not only enabled Russia to control maritime routes but also facilitated Russian territorial gains. Following the battle, the Russian Navy gained notoriety and prestige, showcasing a shift in naval warfare strategies that would influence future naval battles. The aftermath of the battle solidified Russian naval dominance in the Aegean and marked a significant stage in the broader conflict with the Ottoman Empire.