Fighter Command Organisation

At the time of the Battle of Britain, Fighter Command was split into four groups. 13 Group covered the North of England and Scotland, 12 Group the Midlands and Wales, 10 Group South West England and, most importantly 11 Group covered the South East and London. 11 Group was also nearest to the Germans in an area where the German invasion of Britain, Operation Sea-Lion, was most likely to take place. By clicking on the groups on the map below, a full list of their stations and equipment during the period of the Battle can be viewed.

The Royal Air Force Chief of Staff was Air Chief Marshal Sir Cyril Newall, and the Fighter Command Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief was Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding.

The Groups were commanded by:

• Air Vice-Marshal Sir Quintin Brand, Air Officer Commanding 10 Group
• Air Vice-Marshal Sir Keith Park, Air Officer Commanding 11 Group
• Air Vice-Marshal Sir Trafford Leigh-Mallory, Air Officer Commanding 12 Group
• Air Vice-Marshal Richard Saul, Air Officer Commanding 13 Group