The Battle of Ryloth, also referred to as the Ryloth campaign, unfolded as a pivotal conflict on the vibrant planet of Ryloth between 22 BBY-21 BBY, during the early stages of the Clone Wars. This monumental clash pitched the Galactic Republic and the Twi’lek Resistance against the formidable Confederacy of Independent Systems, commonly known as the Separatist Alliance. Orchestrated by the Techno Union, a key faction within the CIS, the battle began with a relentless invasion that swiftly overwhelmed the local Republic garrison.
Despite valiant attempts at humanitarian aid from the nearby planet Toydaria to establish supply lines beyond the Separatist blockade, the invaders tightened their grip on Ryloth, subjecting its people to occupation and subjugation. Frustratingly, the Republic's Galactic Senate remained inert for several months, prompting the formation of a diverse strike force to reclaim Ryloth and liberate its oppressed inhabitants.
During this interim period, the Foremen and Emir of the Techno Union seized the opportunity to exploit Ryloth’s treasures and resources. In response, a formidable task force, including three Venator-class Star Destroyers—Resolute (the flagship), Defender, and Redeemer—hailing from the Open Circle Fleet, set forth under the command of the skilled Jedi General Anakin Skywalker and Admiral Wullf Yularen. Their mission was to obliterate the blockade, allowing the Republic invasion fleet, comprised of three Acclamator-class assault ships, to advance. High Jedi General Obi-Wan Kenobi and Jedi General Mace Windu led this invasion fleet.
In the liberation of Ryloth, Skywalker's task force carried the renowned 501st Legion and Blue Squadron, while Kenobi’s and Windu’s forces led the charge on the ground. Despite losing the Defender and Redeemer in the process, the Republic forces successfully crushed the blockade, creating a clear path for the invasion fleet to make a strategic landing on Ryloth’s surface, particularly in the city of Nabat after overcoming Separatist air defenses.
Subsequently, Kenobi's forces meticulously liberated villages across the planet, gradually gaining control of the expansive Jixuan desert, effectively freeing Ryloth's southern hemisphere. Simultaneously, Windu's forces forged ahead towards the imposing capital of Lessu. The climactic confrontation at Lessu, famously known as the Battle of Lessu, became legendary in songs as the "Hammer of Ryloth.