No. 186 Squadron RAF facts for kids

Quick facts for kids No. 186 Squadron RAF
Active	1 April 1918 - 1 February 1920 27 April 1943 - 5 April 1944 5 October 1944 – 17 July 1945
Country	United Kingdom
Branch	Royal Air Force

No. 186 Squadron was a special unit of the Royal Air Force (RAF). It was formed and reformed several times during its history. This squadron played different roles, from training pilots in World War I to flying important missions in World War II.

Early Days: World War I

No. 186 Squadron first started on 1 April 1918. This was during World War I. It was based at a place called East Retford in the UK.

The squadron's main job was to train pilots. These pilots learned how to fly at night. This training helped protect the UK and supported soldiers on the Western Front.

After the war, on 31 December 1918, the squadron changed. It became a unit that operated from ships. It worked aboard a ship called HMS Argus. In 1919, it focused on developing torpedoes. On 1 February 1920, it changed its name to 210 Squadron.

Reforming for World War II

The squadron was formed again on 27 April 1943. This was during World War II. It started at RAF Drem as a fighter-bomber squadron. Fighter-bombers are planes that can fight other planes and also bomb targets on the ground.

The squadron moved to RAF Ayr. In August, they received their first Hurricanes. Later, they flew other powerful planes. These included Typhoons and Spitfire VBs. On 5 April 1944, the squadron changed its name again. It became 130 Squadron.

Bomber Command Role

Six months later, No. 186 Squadron was formed for a third time. This happened on 5 October 1944. This time, it became a bomber unit. It was part of the RAF's Bomber Command.

The squadron was based at Tuddenham. They flew large Lancaster planes. These planes were famous for their bombing missions. Just 13 days after forming, the squadron flew its first bombing raid. The squadron continued its important work until the war ended. It was officially disbanded on 17 July 1945.