Fire Navy blockade

The Fire Navy blockade was a strategic naval blockade stationed near the Mo Ce Sea, serving as a barrier with the purposes of protecting and controlling entrance to Fire Nation waters. The blockade consisted of hundreds of Fire Nation cruisers that patrolled north to south, guarding the maritime passage between the Fire Nation and Earth Kingdom. The blockade had orders to fire upon any unauthorized vessel approaching Fire Nation territory. Admiral Zhao was placed in command of the blockade when it was first encountered by Team Avatar and Zuko's ship. His predecessor and successor are unknown.

History
Trying to reach the Fire Temple in time for the winter solstice, Team Avatar attempted entry into the Fire Nation by air, but they encountered the blockade and were consequently fired upon by order of Admiral Zhao. The fact that Prince Zuko was also in pursuit of the Avatar and about to be caught in the fire was not of concern to Zhao, as, apart from their rivalry, Zuko, having been banished from the Fire Nation, was not permitted in Fire Nation waters. When Team Avatar managed to pass the blockade, Zhao allowed Zuko to pass through as well in the hopes he would lead him to the Avatar's destination.



Later, after waking from a coma, Aang attempted to enter the Fire Nation alone, not wanting to put his companions in danger. Using Waterbending, Aang simply swam under the blockade into Fire Nation waters without being spotted. In pursuit, the rest of the gang later flew on Appa over the blockade.

During the Day of Black Sun, the invasion force succeeded in passing the blockade with a large screen of steam bent by the Foggy Swamp Tribe's Waterbenders. The invasion force entered the Fire Nation without incident and reunited with the rest of the force stationed at the Black Cliffs.

It is unknown if the blockade was still in place now that the War was over. It is probable that in the interest of communication and international unity, Fire Lord Zuko lifted the blockade.