The squadron reformed in 1952 and is currently based at RNAS Culdrose, where it trains approximately 30 Royal Navy observers every year.

The squadron initially flew Hawker Ospreys and Blackburn Sharks, but in November 1940 it moved to Piarco Savannah (HMS Goshawk) in Trinidad[4] and at about the same time re-equipped with Fairey Albacores.

[6] Two days later German submarine U-96 sank Almeda Star in heavy seas 35 miles (56 km) north of Rockall.

These were replaced by the Handley Page (later BAe) Jetstream T.2 in 1978[4] In April 1981, the squadron merged with the Observer School to form a unified entity.

This unit continued to operate the T.3s in a communications capacity as a detachment based at RNAS Yeovilton until its disbandment on 30 September 2008.

The Squadron operates four commercially owned but military-registered aircraft, employing a mixture of military and civilian personnel to achieve the instructional task.

Trainees are instructed using a UK and Continental Navigation Trainer, and they participate in Sensor Operations that encompass maritime activities, including landing profiles on vessels and search and rescue missions.

Additionally, the program incorporates Multi Task training, focusing on dynamic airborne re-tasking in response to emerging events, with a strong emphasis on developing leadership skills.

Although it shares some similarities with the Basic Flying Training (BFT) course, its emphasis diverges significantly, as Weapon Systems Officers (WSOs) do not operate from naval vessels but instead function as integral members of larger teams in both terrestrial and maritime contexts.

Individuals then advance to the subsequent phase of their training within the Operational Conversion Units (OCUs) for either the Boeing Poseidon MRA1 or the RC-135W Rivet Joint ISTAR aircraft.