Canadian Air Force (1918–1920)

The Canadian Air Force (CAF) existed as a distinct air force unit of the Canadian military from 1918 to 1920. It was formed towards the end of World War I, largely from Canadian personnel already serving in the British Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS). Its official formation date is considered to be August 1918, although formal authorization was granted earlier in the year.

The CAF's primary purpose was to provide support to the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) in Europe during the latter stages of the war. However, the war ended before the CAF could become fully operational as an independent force. The CAF was intended to consist of multiple squadrons, equipped with aircraft acquired from Britain.

Following the armistice in November 1918, the CAF's role shifted dramatically. Many of its personnel were demobilized and returned to civilian life. The remaining aircraft and equipment were shipped back to Canada.

In the post-war period, the CAF was primarily involved in civil aviation activities, including aerial surveying, forest fire patrol, and air mail delivery. This was a transitional phase, exploring the potential uses of aviation technology in Canada.

The Canadian Air Force was disbanded in 1920. Its legacy and experiences, however, were instrumental in the subsequent establishment of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in 1924, which became a permanent and distinct branch of the Canadian military. The brief existence of the first CAF served as a crucial stepping stone in the development of Canadian military aviation.