The engagement of German U-boats in offensive operations against the Royal Navy was a crucial development in naval warfare at the onset of World War I. Only two days following the United Kingdom's declaration of war against Germany, ten German submarines left their base in Heligoland, signaling a shift in naval strategy focused on submersible warfare. The intention behind this move was not only to sink British warships but also to instill fear and disrupt supply lines across the North Sea, which was vital for the British Empire's maritime dominance.

As tensions had been escalating in Europe, the German invasion of Belgium had prompted Britain to align itself against Germany, leading to a broader conflict. The U-boats represented a technological and tactical innovation, characterized by their ability to operate under the sea, which allowed for stealthy approaches to enemy vessels. This campaign by the German U-boats aimed to leverage their emergent capabilities to gain an advantage over the more established Royal Navy, known for its superior fleet.

The significance of this operation cannot be understated, as it foreshadowed a protracted struggle at sea, with both sides evolving their strategies in response to the U-boat threat. Naval engagements became increasingly sophisticated, with emphasis placed on anti-submarine tactics and the development of depth charges. The U-boat campaign would go on to become a hallmark of World War I naval operations, influencing naval doctrine for years to come.