The defence of Britain during the summer and autumn of 1940 relied heavily on the skill, bravery, and coordination of Royal Air Force squadrons stationed across southern England and beyond. Drawn from Fighter Command’s four operational Groups—10, 11, 12, and 13—these squadrons flew Hurricanes, Spitfires, Defiants, and Blenheims in near-daily combat against the Luftwaffe’s offensive.

Each squadron played a unique role in the campaign, shaped by its location, aircraft type, and operational assignment. Some were at the heart of the fighting in southeast England; others provided essential cover for the Midlands and north. Pilots came not only from Britain but from across the Commonwealth and Allied nations—Poland, Czechoslovakia, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and others—forming a collective defence effort unmatched in scale or urgency.

This section provides an overview of all RAF squadrons that took part in the Battle of Britain between 10 July and 31 October 1940, including their bases, aircraft, commanding officers, and notable actions. Click on the emblems below to explore individual squadron histories and their contributions to the battle.