Originally stationed at Malta, took part in the Battle of Calabria on 9 July 1940, took part in the Battle of Cape Spartivento, 27 November 1940, was involved in the First Battle of Sirte, 17 December 1941 it then moved to Trincomalee in March 1942 and became the slow force, made up of R-class battleships, of the Eastern Fleet during the Indian Ocean raid April to May 1942.