No. 207 Squadron RAF

No. 207 Squadron RAF is a long-standing unit of the Royal Air Force with a distinguished history spanning multiple conflicts and roles. Initially formed during the First World War as a Royal Naval Air Service unit, it has operated a diverse array of aircraft from bombers to jet trainers. The squadron is currently based at RAF Cranwell, serving in a multi-engine training capacity for the Royal Air Force.

History

The squadron's origins trace to **No. 7 Squadron, Royal Naval Air Service**, which was re-designated upon the formation of the Royal Air Force on 1 April 1918. During the First World War, it conducted anti-submarine patrols over the North Sea from bases like Dunkirk. Disbanded post-war, it was reformed in 1920 at RAF Bircham Newton as a day bomber unit within the RAF Coastal Area. The squadron saw significant action in the Second World War, initially with Fairey Battle aircraft during the Battle of France before transitioning to the Avro Manchester and then the iconic Avro Lancaster as part of RAF Bomber Command's main bomber force, participating in major raids such as those on Berlin and Hamburg. Post-war, it operated English Electric Canberra jets in the Cold War reconnaissance role before a series of disbandments and reforms, including service with the Panavia Tornado and, most recently, reforming in 2012 to provide multi-engine pilot training.

Aircraft operated

Throughout its service, the squadron has operated a wide variety of aircraft. Early types included the Sopwith 1½ Strutter and Airco DH.4 during the First World War. The interwar period saw the use of the de Havilland DH.9A and Fairey III. Its Second World War service progressed from the Fairey Battle and Avro Manchester to the Avro Lancaster Mk I and III, its primary aircraft during the strategic bombing campaign. Post-war, it flew the Avro Lincoln before transitioning to jets like the English Electric Canberra B.2 and PR.7. Later periods saw operation of the Hawker Siddeley Buccaneer and the Panavia Tornado GR.1/1A/4. Since its 2012 reformation, it has operated the Embraer Phenom T1.

Notable personnel

Several distinguished aviators have served with the squadron. Notable Commanding officers have included Group Captain John Nettleton, a Victoria Cross recipient awarded for his leadership during the Augsburg raid of 1942 while flying an Avro Lancaster with another squadron. Renowned bomber pilot and author Guy Gibson, later leader of the Dambusters Raid, served an instructional tour with the squadron early in the war. Australian ace Flight Lieutenant Mickey Martin, who later served in the No. 617 Squadron, also flew operations with the unit. The squadron's history is also marked by the service of personnel who later achieved high rank within the RAF.

Bases and deployments

The squadron has been based at numerous locations across the United Kingdom and deployed overseas. Early bases included RAF Eastchurch and RAF Rochford. Significant Second World War stations were RAF Waddington and RAF Spilsby, from which it launched Lancaster operations over Germany. Post-war, it was based at RAF Marham and RAF Honington with Canberra aircraft. During the Cold War, it deployed detachments to Malta, Cyprus, and the Persian Gulf. Its association with RAF Cranwell began in the late 20th century, and it has been permanently based there since its 2012 reformation as part of No. 3 Flying Training School.

Squadron badges and markings

The squadron's badge, approved by King George VI in 1937, features a Maltese Cross voided, reflecting its origins in the Royal Naval Air Service. Its Latin motto, "Semper Paratus" (Always Ready), underscores its operational readiness. During the Second World War, its Avro Lancaster aircraft carried the squadron code "EM" and individual aircraft letters. In its post-war jet era, aircraft often carried a distinctive fin flash or small badge. The current Embraer Phenom T1 fleet typically displays the squadron number prominently alongside standard Royal Air Force roundels.