the squadron was established as a detachment (no. 1477 (norwegian) flight) under the 210 squadron of the british royal air force, on 8 february 1942, by captain finn lambrechts. the squadron was located in woodhaven, fife, scotland. on 10 may 1943 333 squadron was formed from this flight with mosquito mk.iis at raf leuchars and pby-1b catalinas at woodhaven. the mosquitoes were operated on shipping reconnaissance flights along the norwegian coast, whilst the catalinas carried out anti-submarine patrols to the north of scotland. the squadron's catalinas also operated in the 'special duties' role landing both personnel and supplies at points along the norwegian coast.