P-40 in Western Desert

[kaki3152]

Here's a crashed P-40 Tomahawk with a German soldier. Can't find the code "DX" for a P-40 unit

[Kutscha]

DX is the code for 4 Squadron SAAF

[kaki3152]

Aha, Thanks, I could not find it in "Squadron Codes 1937-1956" by Rawlins/Boyer. For 4 SAAF, they have "KJ" as the Squadron code. Did they change codes at some time?

[kaki3152]

I had this A/c identified as 4 SAAF according to the Bowyer/Rawlings book

[Larry]

This link has DX listed for 4 Sqn SAAF too, but when you click on the link for the Sqn it gives only KJ for 1939-45, so the use of DX must have been brief!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_RAF_Squadron_Codes

[udf_00]

http://forum.keypublishing.com/showt...th-Africa-1942
post #1 links to a P-40 DX°D
post #16 for the explanation
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_A...fication_codes

[Graham Boak]

Squadron Codes is now a rather dated reference source. A far better one is Combat Codes, by Vic Flintham and Andrew Thomas.

[Alex Smart]

Hello,
Anyone know the serial numbers of either the "DX" or "KJ-I" coded aircraft ?
Any idea as to who the pilots were and their fates ?
Alex

[Buz]

Hi Alex

There are very few known match up between codes and serials for SAAF P-40's (especially the Tomahawks), mainly due to the quality of the ORB'S. There maybe a little further info in SAAF archives but to date little has been found.

As for how long these Units used the first set of codes, it was for approx 5 months, from Nov 1941 to late Apr 1942.

regards

Buz

[kaki3152]

Thanks to all for their information!

So, 4 SAAF used "DX" from Nov. 1941 to late April 1942 when they changed to "KJ" which they used the rest of the war? Does anyone know why they changed squadron codes? It's interesting that this code change happened while they were still flying Tomahawks, as evidenced by the two airplanes.

Graham, I'm sure but I can't afford to upgrade my reference library due to semi retirement. I bought "Squadron Codes" at used book store many years ago and have used it extensively.