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26squadrons which had a strong Canadian component. The build up of RCAF squadrons within Fighter Command continued and there were eventually twelve, of which eight were day fighters, three night fighters and one an intruder squadron. The success of the RAF%u2019s Desert Air Force, during the North African campaign, pointed up the great advantages of providing the Army with close air support and reconnaissance and it was decided to create a Tactical Air Force to work with the British and Canadian armies within 21st Army Group when the invasion of Europe took place. 2nd TAF %u2013 as it became known %u2013 comprised the light and medium bombers of No 2 Gp, the fighters, fighter bombers and recce aircraft of Nos 83 and 84 Gps and the day and night fighters of No 85 Gp for the defence of 2nd TAF%u2019s airfields. It was a Canadian ambition to create a group which would be able to support its own army in the field but the number of RCAF Article XV squadrons available fell short of the thirty required. The suggested re8roling of several squadrons already deployed in the UK, in order to make up the necessary numbers, was opposed by the RAF, as they were already gainfully employed on other tasks, seen as vital. Even the deployment of six additional squadrons from Canada could not provide enough resources for a complete group but in June 1943 it was agreed that the available RCAF units would be assigned to 83 Group which was earmarked to support 1st Canadian Army. However, in January 1944, it was decided that, as the more experienced formation, 83 Group would actually support the British 2nd Army. No 84 Gp, therefore, swapped places with 83 but, as the former had no Canadian squadrons in its ORBAT, the RCAF%u2019s desire to fight with Canadian troops was thwarted. In 1944, the RCAF formed three Dakota squadrons. Two of these, Nos 435 and 436 Sqns, were in India where they became operational late in the year, thereafter supporting the campaign in Burma while coping with the inhospitable terrain, the weather and Japanese fighters. On one occasion six Dakotas were attacked over the DZ, two being shot down and others damaged, leading to a reversion to night drops until fighter escorts could be provided. The third transport unit, No 437 Sqn, was formed within 46 Group at Blakehill Farm. Since it was created by the simple expedient of posting Canadian crews from the other Dakota squadrons in the group,