The Squadron

54 Squadron is based at RAF Waddington, the hub of the RAF’s Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) capability. The Squadron boasts a distinguished and varied history, including its status as the highest scoring Battle of Britain squadron, flying Spitfires. It also played a crucial role in providing air support during the Dunkirk evacuation. 

In the jet age, 54 Squadron again distinguished itself—while operating the Vampire, it became the first unit to fly a jet powered aircraft across the Atlantic. Over its long history the Squadron has flown an array of iconic aircraft, including the Sopwith Camel, Gauntlet, Phantom and Jaguar. 

Since 2005, 54 Squadron has served as the ISTAR Operational Conversion Unit, delivering more than 30 courses to train both aircrew and engineers to operate and sustain the Rivet Joint, Shadow, and Protector fleets. The Squadron also provides postgraduate training in ISR tactics and is responsible for delivering the Protector Qualified Weapons Instructor Course. 

Boldness to endure anything

Based at

RAF Waddington

What we fly

RC-135W Rivet Joint

ISTAR, Current

Shadow R1

ISTAR, Current

History

1916   Formed at Castle Bromwich. 

1940   Took part in the Battle of Britain flying Spitfires, notable squadron pilots being the New Zealanders 'Al' Deere and Colin Gray.

1948   Flew the first ever crossing of the Atlantic by a jet aircraft in DeHavilland Vampires.

1974   The Squadron took delivery of the SEPCAT Jaguar in the ground attack role, which it performed for the next 36 years until 2005.

2005   Stood up as the ISTAR Operational Conversion Unit at RAF Waddington.

Battle Honours

1916-1918   Western Front

Arras*

1917   Ypres

1917*   Cambrai

Amiens*

1940-1945   Home Defence 

1940   France and Low Countries

Dunkirk*

1940*   Battle of Britain

1941*   Fortress Europe 

1943-1945*   Eastern Waters 

1991   Gulf 

Honours marked with an asterisk, are emblazoned on the Squadron Standard.