12 April 1813 – North Spain - Oporto Campaign

Strategic Map of Northern Spain

Oporto is the first campaign after the armistice in Northern Spain and covers the area outlined in white above.

Tactical Map of Oporto Campaign Area

Both armies are out of contact with each other

The French have allocated one independent infantry brigade to garrison the four depots.   This will ensure that they can replace the supplies used each day.  

The British army has only three infantry brigades detached to establish depots.

There are four independent Spanish guerrilla brigades, who will harass the French garrisons and provide intelligence to Wellington about French activities

Soult has just received orders to advance and drive the British out of Portugal.

Wellington has ordered a surprise offensive to disrupt the anticipated French attack.