Tel Aviv Squadron

The Tel Aviv squadron was initially responsible for all air operations in Palestine/Israel during the War of Independence, from its main base at Sde Dov, near Tel Aviv. It first was formed on 27 December 1947 at Sde Dov, with all the Sherut Avir's existing aircraft - except for the RWD.15 which was still at Lydda. The new unit's main tasks were listed as liaison, transport, intelligence gathering, escorting convoys of vehicles and training young pilots. It's area of responsibility was reduced to just central Israel after the acquisition of more aircraft and the formation of the Negev Squadron on 10 March 1948. Since Sde Dov was still under RAF control until May 1948, any illicit cargo (such as bombs or guns) had to be smuggled past the British Guards. In late June 1948 it was designated 1 Squadron. Peak strength was 22 aircraft. Other rough airstrips used included kibbutz Na'an, Gosh Etzion, Bet Ashel and Gaza East (Be'erot Itschak). In May 1949 the unit was amalgamated into 100 Squadron.