The cyclonic circulation of the North Atlantic subpolar gyre (SPG) is a key component of North Atlantic climate variability on a wide range of time scales. It is intrinsically linked to water mass transformation, and thus to the deep overturning circulation (MOC) and oceanic heat transport towards high northern latitudes. Observations and coupled climate models suggest a tight coupling of decadal climate variability in the Northern Hemisphere and modulations in the SPG intensity and shape. On these time scales, this region has the highest skill for climate predictions worldwide. However, the widespread warming during the 20th century was accompanied by a remarkable cooling trend in the SPG that is not yet fully understood. Recent years have also seen significant progress in our understanding of the gyre's dynamics, thanks to advances in observing systems and modeling studies ranging from realistic configurations at high-resolution to idealized simulations. Furthermore, in addition to observational data a fast-growing number of paleoceanographic reconstructions highlight the important role of the SPG in past abrupt climate events and variability.

Given the large progress in these various related fields of research, we believe it is time to synthesize the existing knowledge on this crucial component of the North Atlantic circulation. We encourage contributions from all disciplines that contribute to an integrated perspective of the SPG dynamics.