When was No. 5 Squadron RAF first formed, and what was its initial designation?

No. 5 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) was first formed on July 26, 1913. It was initially formed from members of No. 3 Squadron.

Where was No. 5 Squadron RAF initially formed and where did it move before deploying to France?

No. 5 Squadron was initially formed at Farnborough, Hampshire. Before deploying to France on August 15, 1914, it moved to Netheravon, Fort Grange in Gosport, and Swingate Down.

What was the squadron's role upon deployment to France in August 1914, and what aircraft did it use?

Upon deploying to France on August 15, 1914, No. 5 Squadron was equipped with a variety of aircraft to conduct reconnaissance for the British Expeditionary Force (BEF). Its initial missions began on August 21, 1914.

What significant distinction did No. 5 Squadron achieve on August 22, 1914, during World War I?

On August 22, 1914, an Avro 504 of No. 5 Squadron became the first British aircraft to be shot down during World War I. Its crew, Second Lieutenant Vincent Waterfall and Lieutenant Charles George Gordon Bayly, were killed over Belgium.

What other notable "first" did No. 5 Squadron achieve in the RFC during World War I?

On August 24, 1914, No. 5 Squadron became the first unit in the Royal Flying Corps to shoot down an enemy aircraft using gunfire. This was achieved by Lieutenant Wilson and Lieutenant Rabagliati against a German Etrich Taube near Le Cateau-Cambrésis.

What aircraft types did No. 5 Squadron operate during the First World War, and what was their primary role?

During World War I, No. 5 Squadron standardized on the Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2 series of aircraft and later re-equipped with the Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8 in May 1917. Their primary role was specializing as observers for artillery and working closely with the Canadian Corps.

What historical association led to the inclusion of a maple leaf in No. 5 Squadron's badge?

The squadron's close association with the Canadian Corps during the First World War led to the incorporation of a maple leaf, the national symbol of Canada, into its badge. This badge was officially approved in June 1937.

When and where did No. 5 Squadron reform after its initial disbandment in the UK in 1920?

After disbanding in the UK on January 20, 1920, No. 5 Squadron reformed on April 1, 1920, in Quetta, British India (now Pakistan). This reformation occurred when No. 48 Squadron was renumbered.

What was the primary role of No. 5 Squadron in India during the interwar period?

Upon reforming in India, No. 5 Squadron continued its Army Air Cooperation role, conducting operations on the North West Frontier. It was initially equipped with the Bristol F.2B Fighter, which it flew until 1931, before converting to the Westland Wapiti Mk.IIa.

What aircraft types did No. 5 Squadron operate during World War II in the India/Burma theatre?

At the start of World War II, No. 5 Squadron was operating the Westland Wapiti biplane in Pakistan. It later converted to the Hawker Hart, then the Hawker Audax, followed by the Curtiss Mohawk Mk.IV, and subsequently the Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIc and Mk.IId. Towards the end of the war, it operated the Republic Thunderbolt Mk.I and Mk.II.

What was No. 5 Squadron's role when escorting bombers over north-west Burma in 1942?

In May 1942, No. 5 Squadron was posted to RAF Dinjan, Assam, and tasked with escorting Bristol Blenheim bombers over north-west Burma. This was during their period operating the Curtiss Mohawk Mk.IV.

When was No. 5 Squadron withdrawn from the front line in preparation for the liberation of Malaya, and why was this operation cancelled?

In May 1945, No. 5 Squadron was withdrawn from the front line in preparation for the liberation of Malaya from Japanese occupation. However, this operation was never carried out because the Japanese Empire surrendered on August 15, 1945.

What led to the disbandment of No. 5 Squadron in India in August 1947?

No. 5 Squadron, which had converted to the Hawker Tempest F.2 in India, was disbanded on August 1, 1947, due to the Partition of India. This event marked the division of British India into two independent nations.

What was the role of No. 5 Squadron when it reformed in the UK in 1949?

On February 11, 1949, No. 5 Squadron reformed at RAF Pembrey in Wales for target-towing duties. This reformation occurred when No. 595 Squadron was renumbered, but the squadron was short-lived, disbanding again on September 25, 1951.

Where did No. 5 Squadron reform in March 1952, and what aircraft did it initially operate?

No. 5 Squadron reformed on March 1, 1952, at RAF Wunstorf in West Germany. It was equipped with the de Havilland Vampire F.5 upon reformation.

What aircraft types did No. 5 Squadron operate during the Cold War in West Germany?

During the Cold War, No. 5 Squadron operated the de Havilland Vampire F.5 and later the de Havilland Venom FB.1 and FB.5. It then transitioned to night fighter operations with the Gloster Meteor NF.11 and subsequently the Gloster Javelin FAW.5 and FAW.9.

What was the squadron's role when it reformed in October 1965 at RAF Binbrook?

The squadron reformed at RAF Binbrook, Lincolnshire, on October 8, 1965, as an interceptor unit. Although initially equipped with a Hawker Hunter T.7A fitted with Lightning instruments, its primary aircraft became the English Electric Lightning.

What was the primary interceptor aircraft operated by No. 5 Squadron from 1965 to 1987?

The primary interceptor aircraft operated by No. 5 Squadron from 1965 until the type's withdrawal in December 1987 was the English Electric Lightning. During this period, it flew variants such as the F.1A, F.3, and F.6.

What significant long-distance deployment did No. 5 Squadron undertake with its Lightning aircraft in 1969?

Over Christmas 1969, No. 5 Squadron deployed its Lightning aircraft on reinforcement Exercise Ultimacy to RAF Tengah, Singapore. This was achieved using in-flight refueling and involved only one stop en route at RAF Masirah in Oman.

When did No. 5 Squadron convert to the Panavia Tornado F3?

No. 5 Squadron relocated to RAF Coningsby in preparation for converting to the Panavia Tornado F3, receiving its first aircraft in January 1988.

What major conflict did No. 5 Squadron participate in with the Panavia Tornado F3 in 1990-1991?

In August 1990, No. 5 Squadron was the first RAF squadron deployed as part of the UK's contribution to the Gulf War, arriving in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, with six Tornado F3 aircraft.

What NATO operation did No. 5 Squadron participate in between 1993 and 1995?

Between 1993 and 1995, No. 5 Squadron participated in Operation Deny Flight, which involved enforcing the no-fly zone over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

When was No. 5 Squadron disbanded after its Tornado F3 service?

No. 5 Squadron disbanded on September 30, 2002, following its service with the Panavia Tornado F3, with its personnel being reassigned to other units.

When did No. 5 Squadron reform to operate the Raytheon Sentinel R1, and at which base?

The squadron reformed on April 1, 2004, at RAF Waddington, Lincolnshire, to operate the Raytheon Sentinel R1 aircraft.

What was the primary role of the Raytheon Sentinel R1 aircraft operated by No. 5 Squadron?

The Raytheon Sentinel R1 aircraft provided battlefield and ground surveillance for the British Army. It was equipped with advanced radar and served a similar function to the American Northrop Grumman E-8 Joint STARS aircraft.

In what year did the Sentinel R1 officially enter service with No. 5 Squadron?

The Sentinel R1 officially entered service with No. 5 (AC) Squadron on December 1, 2008.

What operations did No. 5 Squadron's Sentinel R1 aircraft participate in during 2011?

In 2011, Sentinels from No. 5 Squadron participated in Operation Ellamy over Libya, an intervention aimed at protecting civilians during the Libyan civil war.

What other intelligence gathering aircraft did No. 5 Squadron briefly operate between 2009 and 2011?

Between 2009 and 2011, No. 5 Squadron also briefly operated four Hawker Beechcraft Shadow R1 aircraft. These were intelligence gathering aircraft based on the Beechcraft King Air 350.

What was the final operational sortie flown by No. 5 Squadron before its disbandment?

The final operational sortie for No. 5 Squadron was flown on February 25, 2021, by the Sentinel R1 aircraft ZJ694.

When was No. 5 Squadron officially disbanded?

No. 5 Squadron was officially disbanded on March 31, 2021, concluding its long history of service.

What aircraft are intended to take over the role previously performed by the Sentinel R1?

Following the disbandment of No. 5 Squadron and the retirement of the Sentinel R1, its role is being fulfilled by other aircraft, such as the Poseidon MRA1 and the Protector RG1.

What is the motto of No. 5 Squadron RAF, and what does it mean?

The squadron's motto is Frangas non flectas, which translates from Latin to 'Thou mayst break, but shall not bend me.' This motto conveys a spirit of resilience and an unwillingness to yield.

Which battle honours has No. 5 Squadron received?

No. 5 Squadron has received numerous battle honours, including Western Front (1914-1918), Mons, Ypres, Loos, Arras, Somme, Amiens, Hindenburg Line, Waziristan (1920-1925), Mohmand (1927), North West Frontier (1930-1931 and 1935-1939), Arakan (1942-1944), Manipur (1944), Burma (1944-1945), Afghanistan (2001-14), and Libya (2011).

Which battle honours are permitted to be emblazoned on the squadron standard?

The battle honours that are permitted to be emblazoned on the squadron standard are those marked with an asterisk (*), which include Mons, Ypres (1917), Loos, Arras (1917), Somme (1918), Amiens (1918), Arakan (1942-1944), and Burma (1944-1945).

What aircraft did No. 5 Squadron operate between May 1931 and June 1940?

Between May 1931 and June 1940, No. 5 Squadron operated the Westland Wapiti Mk.IIa. This biplane was used in its Army Cooperation role in India.

What was the role of the Hawker Tempest F.2 flown by No. 5 Squadron in 1946-1947?

From February 1946 to August 1947, No. 5 Squadron operated the Hawker Tempest F.2 in India. Its service ended with the Partition of India.

What aircraft did No. 5 Squadron operate between February 1949 and February 1951?

During its period of target-towing duties from February 1949 to February 1951, No. 5 Squadron operated several aircraft types, including the Supermarine Spitfire LF.16e, Miles Martinet TT.1, Airspeed Oxford T.1, and Bristol Beaufighter TT.10.

What was the squadron's role from January 1959 to October 1965?

From January 1959 to October 1965, No. 5 Squadron served as a night fighter unit, operating the Gloster Meteor NF.11 and later the Gloster Javelin FAW.5 and FAW.9.

What was the significance of the squadron's deployment to RAF Luqa in October 1967?

In October 1967, No. 5 Squadron deployed nine Lightning F.6 aircraft and one T.5 to RAF Luqa, Malta, for an Air Defence Exercise. This exercise involved simulating air defense scenarios against Avro Vulcan B.2 aircraft.

What was the role of the Lightning F.1A aircraft received by No. 5 Squadron in 1970?

In 1970, No. 5 Squadron received a pair of Lightning F.1A aircraft, which were used as targets for the Lightning F.6 due to their lighter and more nimble characteristics. These were later replaced by Lightning F.3s for this role.

What was the squadron code for No. 5 Squadron when operating the Tornado F3?

The squadron code for No. 5 Squadron when operating the Panavia Tornado F3 was 'A' from August 1986 to December 1987, and then 'CA-CZ' for the Tornado F3 itself.

What was the purpose of the Sentinel R1's deployment to Senegal in January 2013?

In January 2013, a Sentinel R1 from No. 5 Squadron was deployed to Dakar, Senegal, to assist France's Operation Serval in Mali. This operation aimed to support French military intervention against Islamist forces in Mali.

What was the purpose of the Sentinel R1 deployment to Ghana in May 2014?

In May 2014, a Sentinel R1 was deployed to Kotoka International Airport in Ghana to aid in the search for 223 schoolgirls who had been kidnapped by Boko Haram in Nigeria.

What was the total number of hours flown and sorties completed by No. 5 Squadron with the Sentinel R1?

Across the Sentinel R1's 14 years of service with the squadron, No. 5 Squadron flew a total of 32,000 hours across 4,870 sorties.

What was the squadron's designation during the Cold War when operating interceptors?

During the Cold War, No. 5 Squadron operated as No. 5 (Fighter) Squadron, focusing on the interceptor role with aircraft like the English Electric Lightning and Panavia Tornado F3.

What was the first aircraft type operated by No. 5 Squadron after its reformation in 1920 in India?

After reforming in India in April 1920, No. 5 Squadron was equipped with the Bristol F.2B Fighter, which it flew until 1931.

What was the significance of the squadron's reformation at RAF Waddington in 2004?

In April 2004, No. 5 Squadron reformed at RAF Waddington to become the operator of the new Raytheon Sentinel R1 aircraft, marking a new phase in its history focused on airborne surveillance.

What was the purpose of the Hawker Hunter T.7A used by No. 5 Squadron in late 1965?

In late 1965, No. 5 Squadron initially flew a Hawker Hunter T.7A fitted with Lightning instruments as a placeholder before the delivery of actual Lightning aircraft.

What was the squadron's designation during the Cold War when operating interceptors?

During the Cold War, No. 5 Squadron operated as No. 5 (Fighter) Squadron, focusing on the interceptor role with aircraft like the English Electric Lightning and Panavia Tornado F3.

What was the squadron's designation during the Cold War when operating interceptors?

During the Cold War, No. 5 Squadron operated as No. 5 (Fighter) Squadron, focusing on the interceptor role with aircraft like the English Electric Lightning and Panavia Tornado F3.

No. 5 Squadron Raf Wiki: Guardians of the Skies: The Legacy of No. 5 Squadron RAF

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A Century of Service: Squadron History

Formation and World War I (1913–1919)

Established on July 26, 1913, at Farnborough, No. 5 Squadron RFC was among the earliest military aviation units. Deploying to France in August 1914, it engaged in reconnaissance for the British Expeditionary Force. The squadron holds the distinction of recording the RFC's first aircraft loss and its first aerial victory, flying aircraft such as the Avro 504 and later the Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8, often in close support of ground troops and artillery observation.

Interwar Years and World War II (1920–1947)

Following WWI, the squadron relocated to India in 1920, serving on the North-West Frontier. During WWII, it remained in India, operating various aircraft including the Westland Wapiti, Hawker Hart, Curtiss Mohawk, Hawker Hurricane, and Republic Thunderbolt. Its duties evolved from Army Air Cooperation to light bombing and fighter roles, notably supporting operations in Burma.

Cold War Operations (1949–1965)

After a brief disbandment and reformation in India, the squadron returned to the UK and later West Germany. During the Cold War, No. 5 Squadron transitioned to an interceptor role, flying the de Havilland Vampire, de Havilland Venom, Gloster Meteor, and the distinctive Gloster Javelin. These aircraft were crucial for air defence during a period of heightened international tension.

Lightning and Tornado Era (1965–2003)

Reforming at RAF Binbrook in 1965, the squadron became synonymous with the English Electric Lightning interceptor, operating it for over two decades. It later converted to the Panavia Tornado F3. During this period, No. 5 Squadron participated in significant deployments, including the Gulf War and operations over Bosnia, showcasing its evolving air defence capabilities.

Sentinel R1 and Final Years (2004–2021)

The squadron reformed in 2004 at RAF Waddington to operate the Raytheon Sentinel R1, an advanced Airborne STand-Off Radar (ASTOR) platform. The Sentinel provided crucial battlefield and ground surveillance for the British Army, playing vital roles in operations in Afghanistan, Libya, Mali, and Iraq/Syria. No. 5 Squadron was disbanded on March 31, 2021, marking the end of its long and storied history.

Fleet Evolution: Aircraft Operated

Aircraft Inventory

Over its extensive service life, No. 5 Squadron operated a diverse range of aircraft, reflecting advancements in aviation technology and changing operational requirements.

Avro Type E (1913–1914)
Farman MF.7 Longhorn (1913–1915)
Farman HF.20 (1913–1914)
Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.2a (1914)
Sopwith Three-seater (1914)
Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.1 (1914)
Sopwith Tabloid (1914)
Avro 504 (1914–1915)
Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.8 (1914)
Farman HF.27 (1914)
Bristol Scout (1914–1915)
Martinsyde S.1 (1915)
Voisin LA (1915)
Blériot Parasol (1915)
Vickers F.B.5 (1915–1916)
Caudron G.3 (1915)
Airco DH.2 (1915–1916)
Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2c/d/e/f/g (1915–1917)
Royal Aircraft Factory F.E.8 (1915–1916)
Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8 (1917–1918)
Bristol F.2B (1919–1931)
Westland Wapiti Mk.IIa (1931–1940)
Hawker Hart (1940–1941)
Hawker Audax (1941–1942)
Curtiss Mohawk Mk.IV (1941–1943)
Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIc/IId (1943–1944)
Republic Thunderbolt Mk.I/II (1944–1946)
Hawker Tempest F.2 (1946–1947)
Supermarine Spitfire LF.16e (1949–1951)
Miles Martinet TT.1 (1949–1951)
Airspeed Oxford T.1 (1949–1951)
Bristol Beaufighter TT.10 (1949–1951)
De Havilland Vampire F.3/FB.5 (1950–1955)
De Havilland Venom FB.1/4 (1952–1957)
Gloster Meteor NF.11 (1959–1960)
Gloster Javelin FAW.5/9 (1960–1965)
Hawker Hunter T.7A (1965–196?)
English Electric Lightning T.5/F.1A/F.3/F.6 (1965–1987)
Panavia Tornado F3 (1988–2002)
Raytheon Sentinel R1 (2006–2021)
Hawker Beechcraft Shadow R1 (2009–2011)

Squadron Identity: Insignia and Motto

Squadron Badge

The squadron's badge features a maple leaf, the national symbol of Canada. This emblem commemorates the squadron's strong ties with the Canadian Corps during the First World War. An earlier, unofficial version of the badge incorporated the Roman numeral 'V' within the maple leaf.

Motto

The squadron's enduring motto is Frangas non flectas, a Latin phrase translating to "Thou mayst break, but shall not bend me." This motto encapsulates the squadron's resilience and steadfastness throughout its long history.

Motto Explained

"Thou mayst break, but shall not bend me"

The motto, Frangas non flectas, signifies unwavering resolve and integrity in the face of adversity. It reflects the spirit of the squadron personnel who served across various conflicts and operational environments, maintaining their commitment and operational effectiveness regardless of challenges.

Distinctions: Battle Honors

Recognized Engagements

No. 5 Squadron has been recognized with numerous battle honors for its service in significant historical conflicts. These honors are a testament to the bravery and dedication of its members across different eras.

Western Front (1914–1918)
Mons (1914)*
Neuve Chappelle (1915)
Ypres (1917)*
Loos (1915)*
Arras (1917)*
Somme (1918)*
Amiens (1918)*
Hindenburg Line (1918)
Waziristan (1920–1925)
Mohmand (1927)
North West Frontier (1930–1931)
North West Frontier (1935–1939)
Arakan (1942–1944)*
Manipur (1944)
Burma (1944–1945)*
Afghanistan (2001-14)
Libya (2011)

Honors marked with an asterisk (*) may be emblazoned on the squadron standard.

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References

"Casualty Details:Vincent Waterfall". Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Retrieved 24 December 2016.

"Casualty Details:Charles Bayly". Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Retrieved 24 December 2016.

"ASTOR Enters Service". Air International, Vol 76 No. 1, January 2009. p.5.

A full list of references for this article are available at the No. 5 Squadron RAF Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not official military advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for official Royal Air Force documentation or consultation with military history experts. Always refer to primary sources and official records for definitive information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Guardians of the Skies

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Century of Service: Squadron History 📜

✈️ Formation and World War I (1913–1919)

🌏 Interwar Years and World War II (1920–1947)

❄️ Cold War Operations (1949–1965)

🚀 Lightning and Tornado Era (1965–2003)

🛰️ Sentinel R1 and Final Years (2004–2021)

Fleet Evolution: Aircraft Operated ✈︎

📜 Aircraft Inventory

Squadron Identity: Insignia and Motto 🎖️

⭐ Squadron Badge

💬 Motto

Motto Explained 🗣️

📜 "Thou mayst break, but shall not bend me"

Distinctions: Battle Honors 🏆

🎖️ Recognized Engagements

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Century of Service: Squadron History

Formation and World War I (1913–1919)

Interwar Years and World War II (1920–1947)

Cold War Operations (1949–1965)

Lightning and Tornado Era (1965–2003)

Sentinel R1 and Final Years (2004–2021)

Fleet Evolution: Aircraft Operated

Aircraft Inventory

Squadron Identity: Insignia and Motto

Squadron Badge

Motto

Motto Explained

"Thou mayst break, but shall not bend me"

Distinctions: Battle Honors

Recognized Engagements

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice