May, 1964 found the Squadron back in Khormaksar engaged in operations against rebel tribesmen in the Radfan mountains. Some letters were received by the Squadron from the members of a Special Air Service patrol who had been surrounded in the mountains on 31st April. On that day the Squadron provided continuous air cover until dusk when the patrol was able to break out and return to their headquarters. Regrettably they lost two of their number on the initial breakout. After this the Squadron maintained three pairs of aircraft on standby from dawn to dusk and were later scrambled on request and operated against ground targets under forward air control. In June the Squadron was permanently re-deployed to Muharraq where it has remained since. Squadron Leader G.N. Lewis, AFC, was replaced in March 1965 by Squadron Leader D.J. Rhodes, AFM.
…... that at high level fuel consumption is far less than at low level. At the same time as the four is travelling to the target an “enemy” pair is also airborne attempting to intercept them and prevent them reaching the target. Thus both high level and later low-level combat is practised during the sortie. The four then attempts to attack the target after a low-level run-in on a recognised firing range, using practice rocket projectiles and front guns. The four then must fight its way back to base. Thus pilots obtain experience in tactics in a hostile air environment, in high and low level navigation and finally in weaponry.
