Known affectionately as "Shiny Two," Number II (Army Cooperation) Squadron is one of the oldest and most distinguished units in the Royal Air Force, holding the claim of being the oldest fixed-wing squadron in the world. Formed in 1912 as part of the Royal Flying Corps, the squadron has historically specialized in low-level reconnaissance and close air support for ground troops, a role reflected in its "AC" designation and its crest, which features the wake knot of the Hereward the Wake (a symbol of watchful guardianship). Throughout its history, the squadron has flown iconic aircraft such as the Mustang, Phantom, and Jaguar. In the modern era, "Shiny Two" was the premier operator of the Tornado GR4 before reforming in 2015 at RAF Lossiemouth as a Eurofighter Typhoon squadron, where it continues to provide cutting-edge air defence and attack capabilities.
