Hawk 1994 - 2001 (1)

The following pages have been compiled by the Chairman from the Letters from the squadron to the Association since 1998.

The uncertainty about 208 Squadron’s future was finally lifted when it was announced that the RAF’s fast jet training system was to be revised and the numbers of several distinguished squadrons were to be allocated to Hawk units, which would now be Reserve squadrons, having a full battle role in the event of any major emergency. They would be known as XXX(R) Squadron, rather than just ‘shadow’ squadrons, as had been the practice in many operational conversion units previously. Each squadron would have its own aircraft and its own commanding officer, carrying on the traditions of the former units. So it was that Number 208 Squadron RAF became 208 (Reserve) Squadron and was established with Hawk trainers at RAF Valley in Anglesey.


In June 1998, it was decided that, so as to avoid “wings” ceremonies imposing an artificial deadline on training at RAF Valley, ab-initio students would receive their wings after completing flying training with 208 Squadron (Phase One) and before commencing tactics and weapons training with 74 Squadron (Phase Two). Subsequently, all “Wings” ceremonies and associated “Diamond Nine” flypasts were organized (1) and conducted by 208 Squadron.  In effect, the presentation of wings marked the graduation from 208 Squadron. “Creamies” were also being streamed after completing Phase One.


Also in the summer of 1998, a reorganization of Flying Wing was considered to improve the efficiency of flying operations at RAF Valley. Previously, three squadrons (Nos 19, 74 and 208 Squadrons) operated from three different sites, with 19 Squadron training QFIs, QWls and QTIs, requiring a mix of aircraft roles. The reorganization was effected in April 1999 and involved a division of 19 Squadron.  They maintained their QTI and QWI training role and moved to the far side of the airfield to join 74 Squadron. The QFI training role was assigned to 208 and 208 moved into 19 Squadron’s former accommodation (2).  

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