On April 17, the ground forces of both sides encountered each other on the southern shore of Surt Bay.
The outcome held little suspense, as the infantry-dominated Bulan Royal Army held out for less than half a day before being crushed by the Tiaoman Army's Armored Forces.
Although the remnants of the Bulan army managed to escape back to Tripoli, by the end of April they had all surrendered their weapons.
The Tiaoman Army did not pursue them because intelligence indicated that the Bulan Royal Navy's Land Heart Sea Fleet had left port on the night of the 17th and was expected to join the battle.
Worried about the disruption of maritime transport routes and subsequent logistical support lagging behind, the Tiaoman Army's commanders ordered a halt to the offensive after defeating the Bulan army.
Additionally, this was related to another decision from the Tiaoman high command.
Indeed, it was to turn back and attack Malta.
