Royal Air Force

The Royal Air Force patrolling the skies of London in 1940.

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is the air force branch of the British Armed Forces. The RAF was formed on 1 April 1918 and has taken a significant role in British military history since then, playing a large part in World War II, most famously the Battle of Britain, and in conflicts such as the recent war in Iraq. Known pilots include Douglas Bader and Clive. ("M.I.A.")