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Re: RAF Cat.2 during BoB
Shikhov,
RAF Equipment Branch reported the serviceability state of aircraft in Fighter Command daily during the Battle of Britain. The forms employed seven columns:
Column A: Total squadron establishment - this was 20 aircraft for all Hurricane and certain Spitfire squadrons. Other Spitfire squadrons continuing to operate with 16.
Column B: Total serviceable.
Column C: Total serviceable in 12 hours.
Column D: Total serviceable in 7 days.
Column E: Total repairable by unit but not within 7 days.
Column F: Total repairable but beyond unit's capacy.
Column G: Total struck-off.
Thus, it would seem that Category 2 was simply aircraft damaged beyond the unit's own ability to repair - irrespective of time scales.
Of course, in practice, it was far easier for Squadron EOs to declare a damaged aircraft as Category 2, move it off to the repair organisation, and order a replacement.
Good luck with your research.
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