After completing their refits, "T2", "T5", "T8" and "T11" supported German forces invading the Estonian islands (Operation Beowulf) in mid-September and then, reinforced by "T7", they escorted the battleship , as it sortied into the Sea of Åland on 23–29 September to forestall any attempt by the Soviet Red Banner Baltic Fleet to breakout from the Gulf of Finland. "T1", "T8", "T9" and "T10" were reduced to reserve at some point during the year to alleviate manpower shortages. In November, "T4", "T7" and "T12" successfully escorted the commerce raider "Komet" through the Channel and into the Atlantic despite an attack by British motor torpedo boats (MTBs). The following month "T2", "T4", "T7", "T12" and the torpedo boat successfully did the same for the commerce raider "Thor" although the British failed to react.