Page "Air operations during the Greek Civil War" Paragraph 9

On 2 December 1944, tensions over the role of the EAM and ELAS parties in post-war government resulted in demonstration during which British forces opened fire, killing ten civilians.

The response was attacks on police stations and thus RAF units began operations against ELAS and EAM targets, mostly around Athens.

No. 73 Sqn, along with the newly arrived No. 94 Squadron RAF, used their Spitfires on strafing runs and light bombing was undertaken by No. 108 Sqn.

Additional options were gained when a flight of Beaufighters of No. 39 Squadron RAF were attached to No. 108 Sqn., armed with RP-3 rockets.

These were considered very effective and over the span of two weeks 105 targets ( 55 buildings, 19 command posts, 10 supply dumps, 2 radio stations, 12 transportation, and 7 artillery ) were struck by these aircraft.

The regular aircraft of No. 108 flew 265 sorties during December.

The heavy bombers of No. 221 Sqn were primarily used in supply flights to the Sedes facility as well as various leaflet and illumination missions.

Two actual bombing raids were carried out ( both at night ).

The Greek Spitfire squadrons did not participate in the attacks, although the newly formed No. 13 Squadron RHAF did assist in leaflet operations.