Bab 111: Invasion of Malta

Six hours later, with no clear response from the Maltese, Napoleon's impatience grew. The time for negotiation had passed, and he had no choice but to proceed with a naval invasion. French troops, ready for the assault, began their landings at four strategic locations across the Maltese Islands: St. Paul's Bay, St. Julian's, and Marsaxlokk on mainland Malta, and the area surrounding Ramla Bay on Gozo.

Leading the landing in St. Paul's Bay was General Louis Baraguey d'Hilliers, a seasoned commander with a reputation for tactical brilliance. His troops handpicked for their combat prowess and discipline, stood resolute as they prepared to disembark onto Maltese soil.

Armed with the latest rifle of the French Army, the 1895 Krag–Jørgensen or Bonaparte's repeating bolt-action rifle, d'Hilliers' forces possessed a formidable advantage in firepower. The advanced weapon allowed for rapid and precise firing, giving the French soldiers a distinct edge over their Maltese counterparts.