Comes with a hand-signed C.O.A.

*CONTAINS LOTS OF RAF HANDWRITTEN ANNOTATIONS AND MARKINGS

This incredibly rare and museum-grade WWII artifact is an original 1945 Royal Air Force squadron airfield map showing all secret RAF airfields in the United Kingdom (as of December 31st, 1944). This RAF combat map is a very rare and limited printing and would have been used at RAF squadron HQ headquarters during the height of the Allied aerial campaign against the Germans in the European Theater.

During late 1944 and into 1945, the Royal Air Force (RAF) airfields in the United Kingdom played a crucial role in supporting Allied operations, particularly in the lead-up to and during the final stages of World War II. These airfields were hubs of activity, hosting squadrons engaged in a variety of missions including bomber raids, reconnaissance, and air support for ground forces. Let's explore some of the key RAF airfields and the squadrons stationed there during this pivotal period.

1. RAF East Kirkby

   • Squadrons: One of the notable squadrons stationed at RAF East Kirkby during late 1944 was No. 57 Squadron RAF. This squadron was equipped with Avro Lancaster bombers and participated in strategic bombing missions over Germany and occupied Europe. The Lancaster bombers from East Kirkby played a significant role in the bombing campaign against industrial and military targets deep within enemy territory.

2. RAF Scampton

   • Squadrons: RAF Scampton was home to No. 617 Squadron RAF, famously known as the "Dambusters." During late 1944 and 1945, No. 617 Squadron continued to operate Lancaster bombers, specializing in precision bombing missions. They were particularly renowned for their daring raids, including the attack on the German battleship Tirpitz using Barnes Wallis's "Tallboy" bombs.

3. RAF Waddington

   • Squadrons: Another crucial airfield during this period was RAF Waddington, hosting No. 5 Group RAF which operated a number of Lancaster bomber squadrons. These squadrons carried out both nighttime bombing raids and daylight precision attacks on key German targets. RAF Waddington's strategic location and well-equipped facilities made it a vital base for bomber operations.

4. RAF Woodhall Spa

   • Squadrons: No. 617 Squadron RAF was also briefly stationed at RAF Woodhall Spa, alongside other bomber squadrons. This airfield, located in Lincolnshire, played a significant role in the air war during 1944-1945, supporting Allied efforts to disrupt German industry and infrastructure.

5. RAF Coningsby

   • Squadrons: During late 1944 and into 1945, RAF Coningsby hosted various fighter squadrons equipped with Supermarine Spitfires and later Hawker Typhoons. These squadrons were tasked with providing air cover, ground attack support, and escort duties for bomber formations operating over Europe. RAF Coningsby's fighters played a crucial role in maintaining air superiority and protecting Allied aircraft from enemy fighters.

6. RAF Tangmere

   • Squadrons: Situated in West Sussex, RAF Tangmere was a key fighter airfield during this period. It hosted squadrons that operated Hawker Typhoon and Spitfire aircraft, conducting missions ranging from ground attacks on enemy positions to escorting bombers and engaging in aerial dogfights with Luftwaffe fighters.

7. RAF Coltishall

   • Squadrons: Located in Norfolk, RAF Coltishall was primarily a fighter base during late 1944 and 1945. It hosted squadrons equipped with Hawker Typhoon and later Hawker Tempest aircraft. These squadrons were involved in ground attack operations against German targets, as well as providing air cover and escort duties.

The RAF airfields in the United Kingdom during late 1944 and 1945 were instrumental in supporting Allied air operations against Nazi Germany. Each airfield had its own strategic importance and hosted squadrons that played distinct roles in the air war, from strategic bombing and reconnaissance to air defense and ground attack missions. These airfields and the squadrons stationed there exemplify the diverse and coordinated efforts of the RAF during the final stages of World War II, contributing significantly to the eventual Allied victory in Europe.