The squadron was initially designated as a fighter-bomber unit and formed in Cape Town in April 1939.

It was re-formed on 7 May 1941 as a fighter squadron operating from Zwartkop Air Station equipped with Mohawk Vs.

[1] While deployed to Italy, the squadron flew close air support and fighter-bomber missions, some over Yugoslavia.

The squadron took part in the battles on the Sangro River, Monte Cassino and the Gustav and Gothic Lines.

[1] 5 Squadron was re-formed in Durban in December 1950 as an 'Active Citizen Force' unit flying Harvards.