This is the Dutch ML-KNIL squadron 122 equipped with P-51 Mustang fighter-bombers. It played a small but not unimportant part in the history of former Netherlands East Indies.
Recent History
'Police action' Operation 'Kraai'
The second police action began on December 19 1948 under codename 'Kraai’[1]. In a surprise attack with airborne troops, Sukarno and other Republican government leaders were captured. Mustangs were also used.
The Mustangs of 122 squadron were stationed at 11VB Polonia Medan and 13VB Tabing near Padang (Central Sumatra).
On both North and Central Sumatra, the squadron provided support for the advance to Fort de Kock[2] [3], the landing of troops on Lake Singkarak was secured and important targets were taken out.
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'Police action' Operation 'Product'
"The first police action, which began on July 21 1947 and ended August 5 1947, [1] was code-named "Operation Product ". It’s goal was to get hold of rubber, tobacco, sugar, tea, etc. to help pay for the costs of the war. Estimated at 3 million Dutch Guilders per day."
In July 1947 122 Squadron only had 4 operational (fly-ready) P-51’s out of a total of 9 P-51 fighter aircraft and 10 pilots available.
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Strength of 122 Squadron
Planes and crew 1947 January 1947, the squadron had 17 P-51s, of which 65% were ready to fly, a Lockheed L-12 for transport and 11 pilots.
In April 1947 the staff had 11 officers, 32 petty officers and 76 corporals and men. About half of what was needed.
In July 1947 the squadron had 9 P-51 aircraft of which 4 were ready to fly, the Lockheed L-12 and 10 pilots.
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