What is an air observation post (AOP) and what is its primary function?

An air observation post (AOP) is an aeroplane or helicopter utilized by the British Army and Commonwealth forces specifically for the role of an artillery spotter. In this capacity, the pilot or another crew member acts as an observer, identifying ground targets and directing artillery fire via radio, or calling in tactical ground-attack aircraft.

Who directs artillery fire when using an air observation post?

When an air observation post (AOP) is in use, either the pilot of the aircraft or another designated crew member serves as a forward observation officer. This individual is responsible for directing the fire of ground-based artillery, or for calling in tactical ground-attack aircraft, typically using radio communication.

What was the role of Army co-operation (AC) squadrons in the interwar period concerning artillery spotting?

In the period between World War I and World War II, Army co-operation (AC) squadrons fulfilled multiple roles, including reconnaissance and ground attack, alongside artillery spotting. This integrated approach aimed to provide comprehensive aerial support to ground forces.

What aircraft was the standard for Army co-operation squadrons at the start of World War II, and what was its fate?

At the commencement of World War II, the Westland Lysander was the standard aircraft for Army co-operation squadrons. However, it proved highly vulnerable, with 118 Lysanders shot down out of 175 deployed during the Battle of France, highlighting its unsuitability for the role and leading to RAF squadrons converting to fighter-bomber aircraft by 1941, abandoning their liaison and artillery spotting duties.

Why was the Westland Lysander deemed unsuitable for Army co-operation duties during World War II?

The Westland Lysander was found to be unsuitable for Army co-operation duties due to its high loss rate during the Battle of France. A significant number of these aircraft were shot down, demonstrating their vulnerability in combat operations and leading to a re-evaluation of the concept.

Who was instrumental in establishing the first dedicated air observation post units for the British Army?

Major Charles Bazeley of the Royal Artillery was the individual credited with establishing the first dedicated air observation post units. He led a D flight of an RAF unit equipped with the Taylorcraft Auster, which began developing the AOP role in France in early 1940.

What was the initial development location and timeframe for the AOP role?

The initial development of the air observation post (AOP) role took place in France during February 1940. Major Charles Bazeley's unit, equipped with the Taylorcraft Auster, worked in liaison with the French Army on French artillery ranges to refine the AOP concept.

What event interrupted the early development of the AOP role in France?

The early development of the AOP role in France was interrupted by the German blitzkrieg offensive. This rapid and overwhelming German advance forced the unit to abandon its work and return to its UK base by May 20, 1940.

How was the AOP concept saved from disbandment after its return to the UK?

After returning to the UK, the AOP flight was initially ordered to disband. However, the Army resisted this order, and the intervention of General Alan Brooke, Commander in Chief Home Forces, was crucial in securing the future of the flight and the AOP concept.

By 1942, how many dedicated AOP squadrons had been established by the British?

By 1942, three dedicated air observation post (AOP) squadrons had been established: Squadrons 651, 652, and 653. These were the precursors to a larger group of AOP units.

What was the full range of AOP squadrons established during World War II?

During World War II, the air observation post (AOP) units ultimately comprised squadrons 651 through 662. Additionally, No. 663 Squadron was manned by Polish personnel, and squadrons 664, 665, and 666 were Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) units that included both Canadian and British personnel.

What was a key organizational difference between AOP units and typical Army co-operation squadrons?

A significant distinction was that the pilots of air observation post (AOP) units were drawn from the Royal Artillery, rather than the Royal Air Force (RAF). While the RAF provided technical support and equipment officers, the core personnel and command structure for AOP flights were Army-based.

Who provided the technical support for AOP aircraft?

The Royal Air Force (RAF) provided the technicians responsible for servicing the aircraft used by air observation post (AOP) units. This ensured the aircraft were maintained to operational standards.

What was unusual about the officer structure within AOP squadrons?

An unusual feature of air observation post (AOP) squadrons was that all pilots were officers, and most held the rank of captain. This high proportion of officers, particularly captains, was notable, though it generally did not cause issues as operations were often conducted by individual flights.

What type of aircraft was predominantly used by British AOP units during World War II, and why was it suitable?

British AOP units primarily used several marks of Auster aircraft during World War II. The Auster was favored for its low speed, high maneuverability, small size which aided concealment, and light weight, making it a much more suitable platform for the AOP role compared to the earlier Westland Lysander.

Describe the standard tactic employed by Auster AOP aircraft to evade enemy fighter aircraft.

The standard tactic for Auster AOP aircraft to avoid enemy fighter aircraft was to fly at very low altitudes, typically around 30 feet above the ground. They would often use terrain features like hills or woods for cover, flying low around them to minimize exposure.

What were the risks associated with the low-flying tactics used by AOP aircraft?

While low-flying tactics helped AOP aircraft avoid enemy fighter aircraft and some ground fire, they also presented significant risks. These included numerous crashes into obstacles such as trees, poles, hills, cables, and buildings due to the proximity to the ground.

How did the casualty rates for AOP pilots compare to other military personnel?

Casualty rates for air observation post (AOP) pilots were relatively low when compared to those of Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots or infantrymen. This suggests that their specialized role and tactics, despite inherent risks, were somewhat effective in preserving pilot lives.

What was a specific source of combat losses for AOP aircraft during intense bombardments?

A notable source of combat losses for AOP aircraft occurred when they were hit by outgoing shells fired by their own artillery while flying through the path of artillery fire. This hazard was particularly acute during intense bombardments, such as during the crossing of the Rhine in March 1945, where four aircraft were lost in this manner.

What does the image caption describe regarding a Taylorcraft Auster AOP aircraft?

The source material includes a caption describing a Taylorcraft Auster AOP aircraft belonging to No. 663 Squadron during its training in 1941. This image highlights the specific aircraft type and unit involved in AOP operations.

What does the image caption from the Tunisian campaign, 1942-43, depict?

The image caption from the Tunisian campaign, 1942-43, illustrates personnel removing camouflage from an air observation post (AOP) aircraft. This suggests the aircraft were being prepared for operational sorties in that theater of war.

What is shown in the image caption related to the Italian campaign in December 1943?

The image caption from the Italian campaign in December 1943 shows an air observation post (AOP) aircraft being prepared for a sortie. This indicates the ongoing use and operational readiness of AOP units in that specific military campaign.

Where did an AOP flight operate after World War II, before being redeployed?

Following World War II, an air observation post (AOP) flight operated during the Malayan Emergency. This deployment demonstrated the continued relevance of the AOP role in post-war counter-insurgency operations.

To which conflict was an AOP flight redeployed from the Malayan Emergency?

An air observation post (AOP) flight was redeployed from the Malayan Emergency to the Korean War. This redeployment occurred at the specific request of the 1st Commonwealth Division, highlighting the need for aerial artillery spotting in that conflict.

How was an AOP flight transported to Korea, and what aircraft did they use?

One air observation post (AOP) flight was sent by sea from the United Kingdom to Korea. They transported their Auster AOP.6 aircraft, which were packed in crates for the journey.

What aircraft did the US Army loan to British forces during the Korean War for AOP duties, and how was it received?

The US Army loaned a single Cessna L-19 aircraft to British forces during the Korean War for air observation post duties. British pilots found this aircraft to be superior to the aircraft they were using at the time.

Despite using RAF units, who comprised the aircrew for the AOP flights operating in mainland Korea?

Although the air observation post (AOP) flights operating from mainland Korea were RAF units, all of the aircrew were Royal Artillery officers. This maintained the tradition of Army personnel filling the pilot roles in AOP units.

When was the Army Air Corps formed in the UK, and what was its initial impact on fixed-wing aircraft?

The Army Air Corps was formed in 1957 from existing army units. Following its creation, fixed-wing aircraft used for observation roles were steadily replaced by helicopters, marking a shift in aerial support capabilities.

What was the final type of Auster aircraft used in British service for AOP duties, and when was it retired?

The final air observation post (AOP) aircraft in British service was the Auster AOP.9. The last operational example of this aircraft type was retired in March 1967, marking the end of an era for fixed-wing AOP operations.

What related military aviation concepts are listed in the 'See also' section?

The 'See also' section lists Forward air control, Liaison aircraft, and No. 651 Squadron RAF as related topics to air observation posts. These entries point to other areas of military aviation that share functional similarities or historical connections.

What is the title and publication year of the book cited as reference 1?

The book cited as reference 1 is titled A Dictionary of Aviation, authored by David W. Wragg. It was published in 1973 as a first edition.

What ISBN is provided for David W. Wragg's A Dictionary of Aviation?

The ISBN provided for David W. Wragg's A Dictionary of Aviation is 9780850451634. This unique identifier allows for precise identification of the publication.

What is the subject of the website linked in reference 2?

Reference 2 links to a website, forcesreunited.org.uk, which contains information on the history of Air Observation Posts (AOP). The link is archived from August 22, 2011, via the Wayback Machine.

What is the title and author of the book cited in reference 4, and what edition is it?

Reference 4 cites the book Above the Battle: An Air Observation Post Pilot at War, written by Ronald Lyell Munro. It is a Kindle edition published in 2016 by Pen & Sword Books Ltd.

What ISBN is associated with Ronald Lyell Munro's book Above the Battle: An Air Observation Post Pilot at War?

The ISBN associated with Ronald Lyell Munro's book Above the Battle: An Air Observation Post Pilot at War is 978-1-47387-275-2. This ISBN corresponds to the Kindle edition.

What is the title and publication date of the online article cited in reference 5?

The online article cited in reference 5 is titled True Grit – Unarmed Airborne Artillery Spotters over Normandy, 1944. It was published on October 3, 2020, by History Guild and is archived from December 23, 2020.

What is the title and author of the book cited in reference 6, and what page does it cover?

Reference 6 cites the book Army Wings: A History of Army Air Observation Flying 1914–1960, authored by Robert Jackson. The citation specifically refers to page 159 of the book.

What ISBN is provided for Robert Jackson's Army Wings: A History of Army Air Observation Flying 1914–1960?

The ISBN provided for Robert Jackson's book Army Wings: A History of Army Air Observation Flying 1914–1960 is 978-1844153800. This identifier helps locate the specific publication.

What is the title and publication details of the journal article cited in reference 7?

Reference 7 cites a journal article titled The Army Air Corps Centre by George Forty, published in the July 1982 issue of Armed Forces. The article covers pages 213 to 215 and was retrieved on August 28, 2022.

What is the title of the book listed in the bibliography, and who are its authors?

The book listed in the bibliography is titled Unarmed Into Battle: The Story of the Air Observation Post. It was written by Major General H.J. Parham and E.M.G. Belfield and published in 1956, with a second edition in 1986.

What ISBN is provided for the book Unarmed Into Battle: The Story of the Air Observation Post?

The ISBN provided for the second edition of Unarmed Into Battle: The Story of the Air Observation Post is 978-0-948251-14-6. This identifier is for the 1986 edition published by Warren & Son for the Air O.P. Officers' Association.

What information is available via the external link to www.army.mod.uk?

The external link to www.army.mod.uk provides information related to the history of the Army Air Corps. This resource offers further details on the evolution and operations of Army aviation.

What specific aircraft type is featured in the external link to www.warplane.com?

The external link to www.warplane.com focuses on the Canadian Warplane Heritage and specifically features the Auster Beagle AOP aircraft. This link provides information about this particular model used in AOP roles.

Beyond artillery spotting, what other function could an AOP crew member perform?

In addition to observing for targets on the ground, a crew member in an air observation post (AOP) could also act as a forward observation officer. This role involved directing the fire of artillery units or calling in tactical ground-attack aircraft.

What was the primary reason for the development of dedicated AOP units separate from standard Army co-operation squadrons?

The primary reason for developing dedicated AOP units stemmed from the high losses and unsuitability of aircraft like the Westland Lysander for the combined roles of reconnaissance, ground attack, and artillery spotting. This led to the realization that a specialized aircraft and crew, focused solely on observation and directing fire, was needed.

How did the pilot selection and training for AOP units differ from typical RAF pilots during WWII?

AOP pilots were exclusively drawn from the Royal Artillery, meaning they were soldiers with artillery training rather than professional airmen from the RAF. This ensured a deep understanding of artillery tactics and needs, while the RAF provided the necessary technical and logistical support.

What specific hazard did AOP aircraft face when operating near friendly artillery during bombardments?

AOP aircraft faced the specific hazard of being hit by outgoing shells fired by their own artillery during intense bombardments. This risk was inherent when flying in close proximity to active artillery positions, as tragically demonstrated during operations like the crossing of the Rhine.

What was the significance of the Cessna L-19 loaned by the US Army during the Korean War?

The Cessna L-19 loaned by the US Army was significant because British pilots found it to be superior to the Auster AOP.6 aircraft they were using. This comparison highlighted potential advancements in AOP aircraft technology and performance.

What marked the end of fixed-wing aircraft usage for AOP duties in the British Army?

The steady replacement of fixed-wing aircraft by helicopters after the formation of the Army Air Corps in 1957 marked the transition away from fixed-wing aircraft for AOP duties. This shift culminated in the retirement of the final Auster AOP.9 in 1967.

What is the core purpose of an air observation post (AOP) aircraft?

The core purpose of an air observation post (AOP) aircraft is to provide aerial reconnaissance and artillery spotting for ground forces. It enables observers in the air to direct artillery fire or call for air support by identifying targets and communicating their locations.

What was the role of General Alan Brooke in the survival of the AOP concept?

General Alan Brooke, as Commander in Chief Home Forces, played a critical role in ensuring the survival of the air observation post (AOP) concept. His intervention prevented the disbandment of the initial AOP flight after its return from France, securing its future development.

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Background

The Role Defined

An Air Observation Post (AOP) represents a specialized category of aircraft, encompassing both aeroplanes and helicopters, primarily utilized by the British Army and Commonwealth forces. Its core function is that of an artillery spotter. In this capacity, the aircraft's pilot or another designated crew member serves as an observer, tasked with identifying ground targets and directing artillery fire via radio communication. This role often integrates the functions of a forward observation officer, coordinating ground-based artillery or calling in tactical air support.^[1]^[2]

Interwar Doctrine and Lysander's Limitations

During the interwar period, the British military integrated artillery spotting duties with reconnaissance and ground attack missions under the umbrella of Army Co-operation (AC) squadrons. The standard aircraft for this role at the outset of World War II was the Westland Lysander. However, its performance proved inadequate during the Battle of France, where the British Expeditionary Force sustained significant losses (118 aircraft downed out of 175 deployed). This demonstrated the Lysander's vulnerability and questioned the efficacy of the existing AC squadron concept. By 1941, these RAF squadrons transitioned to fighter-bomber roles, effectively abandoning their liaison and artillery spotting responsibilities.^[3]

World War II: British Development

Pioneering the AOP Concept

The genesis of dedicated Air Observation Post units traces back to Major Charles Bazeley of the Royal Artillery. Operating initially as 'D' flight within an RAF unit and equipped with the Taylorcraft Auster, this group deployed to French artillery ranges in February 1940 to refine the AOP role in conjunction with the French Army. The onset of the German blitzkrieg forced the abandonment of these French operations, and the unit returned to its UK base. Despite orders to disband, the Army successfully resisted, securing the future of the AOP concept through the intervention of General Alan Brooke, Commander-in-Chief Home Forces.^[4]

Collaboration and Structure

By 1942, specialized AOP squadrons, including 651, 652, and 653, were established. Ultimately, the AOP force expanded to encompass squadrons 651 through 662, with 663 manned by Polish personnel and 664, 665, and 666 comprising RCAF units with mixed Canadian and British crews. A key distinction from earlier Army co-operation squadrons was the AOP pilots' background: they were drawn directly from the Royal Artillery. While the RAF provided technical support, equipment officers, and adjutants, the army supplied the majority of personnel, including signallers and drivers. An unusual aspect was that nearly all AOP pilots were officers, often holding the rank of captain. This structure, while potentially lacking traditional rank hierarchy within squadrons, generally functioned effectively, particularly as operations were often conducted by individual flights.^[4]

The Auster Advantage

During World War II, British AOP units predominantly employed light, fixed-wing aircraft, primarily various marks of the Auster. The Auster's low speed, exceptional maneuverability, compact size (facilitating concealment near front-line landing grounds), and light weight rendered it significantly more suitable than the earlier Lysander. The standard tactic against enemy fighter aircraft involved flying at extremely low altitudes, typically around 30 feet above the ground, often utilizing terrain features like hills or woods for cover.^[4]^[5] While this low-level flight offered some protection from ground fire, it also led to frequent accidents involving collisions with trees, poles, cables, and other obstacles.^[5] Despite these risks, casualty rates for AOP pilots remained relatively low compared to those of RAF pilots or infantry soldiers.^[4] A notable hazard during intense bombardments was the risk of aircraft being struck by outgoing artillery shells; four Austers were lost in this manner during the crossing of the Rhine in March 1945.^[4]^[5]

Postwar Operations

Far East and Korea

An AOP flight operated during the Malayan Emergency. Subsequently, at the request of the 1st Commonwealth Division, an AOP detachment was redeployed to Korea during the Korean War. Another flight was transported by sea from the United Kingdom, with its Auster AOP.6 aircraft packed in crates. During this period, a single Cessna L-19 was loaned by the US Army and was noted by British pilots to be operationally superior to the Auster. Despite the Royal Artillery background of all aircrew, these two flights constituted the only RAF units operating from mainland Korea during the conflict.^[6]

Transition to Helicopters

The formation of the Army Air Corps (AAC) in 1957 marked a significant organizational shift, consolidating existing army aviation units. Concurrently, there was a gradual phasing out of fixed-wing aircraft in favor of helicopters, which offered greater flexibility and vertical operational capabilities. The final iteration of the AOP aircraft in British service was the Auster AOP.9. The last operational Auster AOP.9 was retired in March 1967, signaling the end of an era for fixed-wing artillery spotting aircraft.^[2]^[7]

Related Concepts

Forward Air Control

Forward Air Control (FAC) is a military function that involves directing the action of combat aircraft engaged in close air support of ground troops. While AOPs focused on artillery spotting, FAC operations often involve similar principles of battlefield observation and communication with air assets.

Liaison Aircraft

Liaison aircraft are used to carry messages, personnel, or other light cargo between military units. Historically, many AOP aircraft also performed liaison duties due to their light weight and ability to operate from short, unimproved airstrips.

RAF Squadrons

Specific Royal Air Force (RAF) squadrons were dedicated to the AOP role. Notable examples include No. 651 Squadron RAF, which played a significant part in the development and operational deployment of AOP aircraft throughout World War II and beyond.

References

Source Citations

The information presented on this page is derived from the following sources, meticulously cataloged for verification and further study.

Bibliography

External Links

Related Resources

Explore these external resources for additional information on Army aviation and related historical topics:

Army Air Corps History: www.army.mod.uk
Canadian Warplane Heritage: Auster Beagle AOP: www.warplane.com

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Guardians of the Artillery

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Background 🗺️

🪖 The Role Defined

✈️ Interwar Doctrine and Lysander's Limitations

World War II: British Development 🎖️

🚀 Pioneering the AOP Concept

🤝 Collaboration and Structure

💨 The Auster Advantage

Postwar Operations 🌍

🌏 Far East and Korea

🚁 Transition to Helicopters

Related Concepts 🔗

➡️ Forward Air Control

✉️ Liaison Aircraft

🛩️ RAF Squadrons

References 📚

📄 Source Citations

Bibliography 📖

📜 Further Reading

External Links 🌐

🔗 Related Resources

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Background

The Role Defined

Interwar Doctrine and Lysander's Limitations

World War II: British Development

Pioneering the AOP Concept

Collaboration and Structure

The Auster Advantage

Postwar Operations

Far East and Korea

Transition to Helicopters

Related Concepts

Forward Air Control

Liaison Aircraft

RAF Squadrons

References

Source Citations

Bibliography

Further Reading

External Links

Related Resources

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice