[2] It was selected as the first operational squadron to be equipped with Australian-designed CAC Boomerang fighters in March, but did not take delivery of any of these aircraft at the time.

[5] In early 1943 the Allied leadership believed that Japanese forces could attack the Torres Strait area, and No.

72 Wing, which was headquartered in the strategically located town of Merauke on the south coast of Dutch New Guinea.

The guns of one of the fighters jammed, and the other did not score any hits during the brief engagement, which ended when the bombers escaped into clouds.

[8] On 30 August, the main body of the squadron unsuccessfully attempted to intercept a force of Japanese aircraft operating near Horn Island.

86 Squadron Kittyhawks were scrambled from Merauke to intercept an incoming force of Japanese aircraft which were flying at 20,000 feet (6,100 m).

The Kittyhawks made contact with the raiders before they reached Merauke and shot down two Japanese fighters without loss.

75 Wing, which was responsible for all the RAAF units stationed in the Torres Strait islands and at Higgins Field near the tip of the Cape York Peninsula.

[10] The official history of the RAAF in this period states that while the units stationed at Merauke and Horn Island saw little action during 1943, they "fulfilled a very useful purpose" by protecting the flank of the Allied forces in New Guinea.

84 Squadron made an emergency redeployment to Strauss Airfield near Darwin to replace the Supermarine Spitfires of No.

[15] On 12 June, before the squadron was fully disbanded but after all its aircraft had been transferred, the unit was advised that it was to remain active as a cadre with approximately 30 airmen.

84 Squadron moved to Ross River, also in the Townsville area, and received more personal and aircraft from No.

84 Squadron began to be re-equipped with CAC Mustang fighters, and it was fully equipped with the type by 29 July.

84 Squadron pilots ferried six Mustangs to Labuan island off Borneo for service with the First Tactical Air Force.