On 13 April 1904 the Russian destroyer "Strasny" returning from patrol, tried to re-enter the mouth of the Port Arthur but was intercepted by Japanese destroyers. An engagement began between the opposing destroyers, and when observed by Makarov he immediately sent the cruiser to assist "Strasny", while he led three battleships, four cruisers, and a group of destroyers into the Yellow Sea to seek battle with the surrounding enemy warships led by Japanese Admiral Heihachiro Togo. While rushing out of the harbour, Makarov failed to check for mines, but ordered that the area be swept for mines before his return.