Yuan invasion of Java
1293 · East Java (modern Indonesia) · World · Medieval
The Yuan army first helped Wijaya destroy his enemy Jayakatwang, but was then turned on and surprise-attacked by him; suffering heavy losses, it hastily re-embarked and sailed home.
Belligerents
Yuan dynasty
- Commanders
- Shi Bi, Ike Mese
- Strength
- Yuan fleet
Singhasari remnants and Majapahit
- Commanders
- Raden Wijaya
- Strength
- Javanese coalition
Background
Because the king of Singhasari had insulted a Yuan envoy, Kublai Khan sent an army across the sea to punish him; Wijaya exploited the situation, allying with the Yuan to destroy his enemy and then driving the Yuan out.
Course of the battle
- Crossing the seaThe Yuan fleet crossed the sea and landed on Java.
- Joining forcesThe Yuan army helped Wijaya destroy his enemy Jayakatwang.
- Turning on alliesWijaya launched a surprise attack on the Yuan army, which hastily boarded its ships and withdrew.
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 1293 |
|---|---|
| Place | East Java (modern Indonesia) |
| Result | The Yuan army first helped Wijaya destroy his enemy Jayakatwang, but was then turned on and surprise-attacked by him; suffering heavy losses, it hastily re-embarked and sailed home. |
| Winner | Singhasari remnants and Majapahit |
| Casualties | The Yuan army lost part of its force during the retreat; no exact figures are recorded. |
| Territorial change | The Yuan dynasty abandoned its military venture in Java, and Wijaya took the opportunity to found a new dynasty. |
Impact
The Yuan dynasty's overseas campaigns suffered another setback; Wijaya seized the chance to found the Majapahit dynasty, which became a maritime power in Southeast Asia.
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