4 SAAF - full conversion to Kittyhawks?
 

When did the squadron fully convert to Kittyhawks for operational use?


I have scanned their ORB but cannot find it in there. It seems conversion started in June 42, but then again, I have a 20 July 1942 casualty that the Air Ministry claimed occurred in a Tomahawk.



Many thanks in advance!


All the best


Andreas

Re: 4 SAAF - full conversion to Kittyhawks?
 

Hi Andreas

Geoffrey Sinclair wishes to add the following

According to the Australian file AWM54 85/1/4 on 22 May 1942 number 4 squadron SAAF moved to Gambut Satellite with Tomahawks and re-equipped with Kittyhawks

Cheers
Stig

Re: 4 SAAF - full conversion to Kittyhawks?
 

The conversion wouldn't have happened overnight. Some of the older aircraft could/would have been retained to ensure all pilots could achieve their flight hours. If the accident was described as a Tomahawk, maybe it was - though the serial would obviously help.

Re: 4 SAAF - full conversion to Kittyhawks?
 

Andreas


Last operational Sortie for 4 SAAF on Tomahawks noted as 27th Jul 42, after this date only Kittyhawk Sorties logged (first full day of only Kittyhawk sorties 1st Aug 42 - no ops 28-31st Jul)).

They may have had a Tomahawk or two around for training or hacks (just a possible), certainly Tomahawks still in use with 233WG TF which may appear in logbooks even though pilot officially posted to 4SAAF. They received their first Kittyhawks late Jun 42 (actual first date unknown - but post 22nd Jun)


Hope this is of assistance.


Buz


Ref: OPREP No.45 27th Jul 42