 When Allied intelligence learned of the position of "Seigfried", it was decided to force an engagement with the wolfpack; several HX and SC convoys in the area were diverted away, whilst ON 207 was left to continue on course, as a bait convoy for the U-boats.ON 207 was massively reinforced by two support groups, 2nd EG commanded by Capt FJ Walker, and B-7 EG, commanded by Cdr P Gretton, which detached from a successful trip with ON 206.2 EG comprised 4 sloops , , and and
was accompanied by the escort carrier .