Originally, post-war plans called for air defence to be the responsibility of reserve, auxiliary squadrons only.
With the rise of the "Iron Curtain" and the increasing tension in Europe, a change was seen as necessary and regular, full-time squadrons became the force's frontline.
De Havilland Vampires served in both operational and air reserve units (Nos 400, 401, 402, 411, 438 and 442 Squadrons RCAF) until retirement in the late 1950s when they were replaced by the Canadair Sabre.
Air Defence Command headquarters moved to CFB North Bay, Ontario, in August 1966.
In 1987 Fighter Group was merged with Canadian NORAD Region to create a unified air defence command for Canada.