No. 9 (Coastal) Operational Training Unit RAF

No. 9 (Coastal) Operational Training Unit (OTU) RAF was a Royal Air Force (RAF) unit formed during the Second World War. Its primary function was to provide advanced flying training to aircrew destined for service with RAF Coastal Command. The unit specialized in training crews in the specific skills needed for coastal operations, including anti-submarine warfare, maritime reconnaissance, and convoy protection.

OTUs played a crucial role in preparing newly trained pilots and aircrew for operational service. No. 9 (Coastal) OTU would take pilots who had completed basic flying training and introduce them to the complexities of flying multi-engine aircraft and performing the specialized tasks required of Coastal Command aircrew.

The training syllabus at No. 9 (Coastal) OTU would have included navigation over water, the use of radar and other detection equipment, bombing techniques against ships and submarines, and search and rescue procedures. Crews would also receive instruction in aircraft recognition, meteorology, and signals procedures.

Specific aircraft types used by No. 9 (Coastal) OTU would have varied during its service life but likely included aircraft commonly used by Coastal Command at the time, such as the Avro Anson, Lockheed Hudson, and potentially later, the Vickers Wellington.

The unit's location(s) and dates of operation are important aspects of its history, details which may vary dependent on precise historical record. Further research into the specific operational history, locations, commanding officers, and significant events associated with No. 9 (Coastal) OTU would be required for a more comprehensive entry.