Western Squadron
| Western Squadron | |
|---|---|
| Active | origin,1650-1690 formally established 1746-1854 |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Allegiance | British Empire |
| Branch | Royal Navy |
| Type | Squadron |
| Role | Blockade Patrol Trade Protection |
| Garrison/HQ | Plymouth Dockyard, England |
| Engagements | First Battle of Cape Finisterre (1747) Second Battle of Cape Finisterre (1747) Battle of Quiberon Bay Battle of Ushant (1778) |
| Commanders | |
| Notable commanders | Admiral Edward Hawke |
The Western Squadron was a squadron or formation of the Royal Navy based at Plymouth Dockyard. It operated in waters of the English Channel, the Western Approaches, and the North Atlantic. It defended British trade sea lanes from 1650 to 1814 and 1831 to 1854. Following Admiralty orders to Lord Anson he was instructed to combine all existing commands in the English Channel - those at the Downs, Narrow Seas, Plymouth and the Spithead - under a centralized command under the Commander-in-Chief, Western Squadron in 1746. The squadron was commanded by the Flag Officer with the dual title of Commander-in-Chief, English Channel and Commander-in-Chief, Western Squadron