Four merchantmen were to be escorted, initially by a total of nine warships, including Petard. The escort was reinforced with the addition of three cruisers and 14 more destroyers which set course for Malta on 17 November.
Four merchantmen were to be guarded, initially with a fleet of nine warships, including Petard. The protection was augmented by the inclusion of three cruisers and 14 more destroyers that set sail for Malta on November 17th.