[3] The group consisted of specialist squadrons that marked targets for the main attacks of Bomber Command aircraft.

The Force, which had been formed in August 1942 with five squadrons from the existing Bomber Command Groups, flew a mix of Short Stirling, Handley Page Halifax, and Avro Lancaster, all four-engined heavy bomber aircraft, along with Vickers Wellington, a twin-engined, long-range medium bomber aircraft.

Its aircraft used navigation aids such as Gee, H2S and Oboe to find the targets of attack more accurately than the main force on its own could.

8 Group was also responsible for the Light Night Striking Force, equipped with Mosquito bombers and used for harassing raids on Germany.

It was disbanded on 15 December 1945, though its badge and motto ("We Guide to Strike") were subsequently authorized on 11 March 1953.