Prior to the outbreak of hostilities in 1939 the Squadron was equipped with the Whitley III. War was declared 1100 hours on 3^rd September 1939 and on the same day, the Squadron took part in a leaflet raid over Hamburg. It was the first time that the RAF had penetrated into Germany during the war. The Squadron was involved in many ‘firsts’ including the first attack on Italy on the night of the 11^th July; the first time paratroopers were dropped into Italy as part of Operation Colossus on the 10^th February 1941; and the first Bomber Command mission into Germany when the seaplane base at Hornum was attacked.

In May 1942 the Squadron was attached to Coastal Command and is credited with attacks on U-boats. In October 1942 the Squadron returned to Bomber Command and the new Halifax Mk II/III four-engine, moving toe RAF Snaith. The Squadron took part in many riads over Germany whilst at Snaith, and also supported the D-Day landings as well as the Allied advance through France.

The Squadron was engaged in transport duties following the cessation of war, and was disbanded a second time in October 1950, only to be reformed one more time in Augst 1958. Since this time, the Squadron has performed many roles including fighter, training, bomber, maritime and transport roles. It has been deployed in various campaigns including Iraq, former Yugoslavia and the Middle East. The Squadron is currently based at RAF Waddington flying Boeing L-3 Communications RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft, a dedicated electronic surveillance aircraft, a far cry from the Halifax’s flown at RAF Snaith.