418 Search and Rescue Operational Training Squadron

418 Search and Rescue Operational Training Squadron [SAR (OT) Sqn] will fill an essential role for the aircrew and maintainers of the CC-295, Canada’s newest fixed-wing search and rescue aircraft. The squadron’s exceptional training methods and new simulators will improve search and rescue skills and harness the capabilities of the CC-295 aircraft, while forming the heart of the search and rescue Centre of Excellence at 19 Wing Comox, British Columbia

Originally The squadron was originally formed as 418 (Intruder) Squadron on November 15, 1941, under the Royal Air Force’s Fighter Command and 2nd Tactical Air Force. The squadron flew on night fighter and intruder operations in Britain, France, Belgium and the Netherlands throughout the Second World War. The squadron remained in Germany after the war with British Air Forces of Occupation (Germany) until it was disbanded on September 7, 1945. The squadron was subsequently reformed in Canada as 418 Fighter Bomber Squadron on April 15, 1946. The following decades saw several changes in its role, and it was ultimately re-designated as 418 Transport and Rescue Squadron on April 1, 1993. The squadron was again disbanded on June 22, 1994. The squadron was recently re-activated as 418 Search and Rescue Operational Training Squadron and will begin operations as part of the new SAR Centre of Excellence at 19 Wing in 2020.

Official lineage and operational history

• CC-295 Kingfisher

418 Search and Rescue Operational Training Squadron
19 Wing Comox
PO Box 1000 Stn Forces
Lazo BC V0R 2K0

E-mail: 19WingPublicAffairs@forces.gc.ca
Phone: 250-339-8201