Fast, compact and formidable, destroyers were in the thick of the action in every theatre of operations during the World War II. Demands made upon the flotillas were enormous: not only were they to escort the main battle fleets into action, but they were also called upon to escort convoys, protecting their charges against the depredations of aircraft and submarines. The torpedo role diminished and, increasingly, destroyers were called upon to perform a wide range of duties, often of the most hazardous nature. Losses were high.