Flying Squadron (Royal Navy)

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The Flying Squadron was a special British Royal Navy squadron that operated during 1896.[1]

Following the Jameson Raid in South Africa, the German Emperor Wilhelm II sent a telegram of support to President Kruger. This led to a war scare in Europe. To ready itself for the possiblity of a war with the German Empire, the Royal Navy formed the Particular Service Squadron at England, on 14 January 1896. It was soon renamed the Flying Squadron. Its flagship was battleship HMS Revenge, and among other ships in the squadron was battleship HMS Royal Oak.[2]

The Flying Squadron was held in readiness for ten months, and briefly was attached to the Mediterranean Fleet in mid-1896. No war broke out, and the Flying Squadron was disbanded in November 1896.[3]

[edit] Notes

  1. ^ Burt, p. 81-82
  2. ^ Burt, p. 81-82
  3. ^ Burt, p. 81-82

[edit] References

  • Burt, R. A. British Battleships 1889-1904. Annapolis, Maryland: Naval Institute Press, 1988. ISBN 0870210610.