The squadron was first activated in July 1943 as the 18th Photographic Mapping Squadron at Colorado Springs Army Air Base, one of the original squadrons of the 4th Photographic Group, and equipped with Lockheed F-5 Lighting reconnaissance aircraft. It trained in photographic reconnaissance under Second Air Force.Maurer, "Combat Squadrons"pp. 98–99 In late 1942, the 4th group deployed to the South Pacific, where it flew combat missions with Thirteenth Air Force.Maurer, Combat Units, p. 37 However, only a portion of the squadron's air echelon deployed with the group. This part of the squadron re-equipped with North American B-25 Mitchells.
