Squadron leader has also been used as a cavalry command appointment (UK) and rank (France) since at least the nineteenth century.

In Argentina it is used as a command appointment by both the army's cavalry and by the air force's flying units.

[2] However, in 2015, the insignia for Canadian air force majors reverted to two and half strips of braid in pearl grey on black.

On 1 April 1918, the newly created RAF adopted its officer rank titles from the British Army, with Royal Naval Air Service lieutenant commanders and Royal Flying Corps majors becoming majors in the RAF.

On 31 August 1919, the RAF rank of major was superseded by squadron leader which has remained in continuous usage ever since.

Promotion to squadron leader is strictly on merit, and requires the individual to be appointed to a Career Commission, which will see them remain in the RAF until retirement or voluntary resignation.