About this Unit
The 671st Naval Air Squadron (NAS) was a Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm unit formed during World War II. Established in 1944, it specialized in glider operations and training, primarily based in India as part of the British efforts in the Southeast Asian theater. The squadron played a crucial role in preparing for airborne assaults, including potential operations in Burma, by training personnel in the use of military gliders like the Waco Hadrian. The 671st NAS was disbanded in November 1945 following the end of the war and the reduced need for glider-borne operations.
Historical Facts
• Formation during WWII: The 671st Naval Air Squadron (NAS) was formed in 1944 as part of the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm, primarily to support the British campaign in Southeast Asia.
• Role in Burma: The squadron played a key role in the Burma Campaign, providing air support for Allied ground forces fighting Japanese troops in dense jungle terrain.
• Aircraft Operated: The unit flew the Airspeed Horsa and Waco Hadrian gliders, as well as the de Havilland Tiger Moth, focusing on glider pilot training and airborne operations.
• Glider Operations: The 671st was one of several squadrons formed specifically to train pilots and crews in the use of gliders, a tactic used to silently insert troops behind enemy lines.
• Disbandment and Absorption: The squadron was disbanded in November 1945, after Japan’s surrender, and its personnel were absorbed into other Fleet Air Arm units or demobilized.
• Training at Bikram: Initially based at RAF Bikram, India, the squadron trained extensively in hot and challenging conditions, adapting British airborne tactics to the Asian theatre.
• Never Deployed Operationally: Although trained for combat, the 671st NAS never saw operational action with gliders, as the war in Asia ended before they were deployed in a combat role.
• Allied Cooperation: The squadron worked closely with Allied airborne and special forces units, including the Chindits and US Airborne forces, sharing tactics and training methods.
• Unique Squadron Badge: The 671st NAS adopted a distinctive badge featuring a glider in flight, symbolizing its specialized airborne mission.
• Legacy and Commemoration: Though short-lived, the 671st NAS contributed to developing British airborne doctrine in Southeast Asia, and its story is preserved in Fleet Air Arm and glider pilot association histories.