[1][2] The squadron was established in July 1913 and allocated to the Third Fleet.

[3] In July 1914 it was reassigned to the new Grand Fleet, the squadron was also made Cruiser Force B in August 1914 but was more famously known as the Northern Patrol.

[4] The squadron was disbanded from January 1918 to 1937 On 22 March 1937 the Admiralty announced the temporary formation of the squadron for the coronation fleet review by King George VI on 20 April 1937.

The squadron was commanded by Rear-Admiral Arthur Dowding.

[6] On 27 December 1942, it was engaged at the Battle of the Barents Sea as Force R. On 22 December 1943 the squadron was involved in the Battle of the North Cape where it was called Force 2.