| 7th Cruiser Squadron | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Active | 1912–1914 |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Allegiance | British Empire |
| Branch | Royal Navy |
| Size | 5 ships |
| Engagements | Action of 22 September 1914 Battle of Cape Passero (1940) |
| Commanders | |
| Notable commanders | Rear-Admiral Arthur Christian |
The 7th Cruiser Squadron (also known as Cruiser Force C) was a blockading force of the Royal Navy during the First World War used to close the English Channel to German traffic. It was employed patrolling an area of the North Sea known as the Broad Fourteens in support of vessels guarding the northern entrance to the Channel. The Squadron had been part of the Third Fleet of the Home Fleets.
The squadron came to public attention when on 22 September 1914, three of the cruisers were sunk by one German submarine while on patrol. Approximately 1,460 sailors were killed and there was a public outcry at the losses. The incident eroded confidence in the government and damaged the reputation of the Royal Navy, at a time when many countries were still considering which side they might support in the war.