1958: A new Hunter squadron moved into RAF Nicosia.
It was No. 208 Squadron, commanded by Sq. Ldr. John Granville-White from Budleigh Salterton, Devon, with a long-standing association with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries.
As a fighter reconnaissance squadron flying Meteor aircraft, No. 208 had operated from Abu Sueir in the Canal Zone of Egypt during the final years of British occupation.
The squadron’s last base was in Takali, Malta, where the Meteors disbanded. Last month, at Tangmere in Sussex, the squadron re-formed with Hunter F.4 aircraft of the latest type, featuring a sawtooth leading edge and “flying tail.”
In Cyprus, the squadron was tasked with air defense but was also capable of ground attack operations.