Arthur Harris Takes Command of RAF Bomber Command in 1942
On 22 February 1942, Arthur Harris took command of RAF Bomber Command, marking a decisive shift towards a more aggressive strategic bombing offensive.
-
-
RAF Operations Against Zeidi Tribes Begin in Aden Colony
On 21 February 1928, RAF operations began against Zeidi tribes in Aden, illustrating the inter-war use of air power on the imperial frontier.
-
RAF Northern Ireland Troubles: Air Power and Conflict
How the RAF supported Operation Banner in Northern Ireland from 1969 to 2007, with the Aldergrove air bridge, Wessex and Puma helicopters and airfield defence.
-
No. 25 Squadron Deployed to France on the Western Front
On 20 February 1916, No. 25 Squadron was deployed to France, marking an early expansion of British air operations on the Western Front.
-
Battle of Talingon: RAF Air Power in the Burma Campaign
On 19 February 1945, No. 20 Squadron RAF supported the Battle of Talingon in Burma, destroying Japanese tanks during hard fighting west of Mandalay.
-
Operation Jericho: The Amiens Prison Raid
On 18 February 1944, RAF Mosquitos attacked Amiens Prison in Operation Jericho, a low-level raid intended to breach its walls and aid prisoner escapes.
-
Mission to Bomb Dunkirk Abandoned Due to Heavy Opposition
On 17 February 1943, an RAF bombing mission against Dunkirk was abandoned after heavy opposition, with escort fighters suffering losses.
-
USAF B-29 Exercise with RAF Fighter Command
On 16 February 1948, USAF B-29 bombers took part in air defence exercises with RAF Fighter Command during the early Cold War.
-
British and Commonwealth forces in Singapore surrender
On 15 February 1942, British and Commonwealth forces surrendered at Singapore, ending the Malayan campaign and exposing RAF weakness in the Far East.
-
A Coastal Command Hudson Locates the Altmark
On 14 February 1940, an RAF Coastal Command Lockheed Hudson located the German ship Altmark, helping set up the Royal Navy’s dramatic interception.
