World War I already contained several examples of destroyers operating apart from a battle fleet. The Harwich Force gained the strongest reputation because it fought prominent actions and enjoyed unusual freedom. British Channel and Mediterranean formations also operated independently, as did French, Italian, German, Austro-Hungarian, and Russian forces to varying degrees. Their lower profiles often followed from fewer celebrated battles and tighter command, even though independent work still occurred.
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Independent destroyer forces before World War II
The Harwich Force was the best-known example, but several navies used destroyers for independent operations during World War I.