[3] The squadron remained behind in Abyssinia in 1942 when the rest of the South African forces moved into the Western Desert, with some Hurricanes being taken on strength in mid-1942.

The squadron was used in a defensive role and was responsible for the air defence of central and eastern Egypt.

[3] In February 1944 the squadron received Spitfire Mk.IXs to supplement the Hurricanes and to permit high-altitude interceptions.

[3] The squadron was reformed in January 1963 as the first Citizen Force part-time Army co-operation unit, flying Austers and later Cessna 185s from Grand Central Aerodrome.

It was transferred back from army control to the SAAF in May 1973 when it was moved to AFB Swartkop.