No. 74 Squadron, famously known as the Tiger Squadron from its tiger-head motif, was one of the RAF's most storied fighter units. It operated fighter aircraft from 1917 to the 1990s, and then trainer aircraft until its final disbandment in 2000. The squadron was the Royal Air Force's member of the NATO Tiger Association from 1961 until its disbandment.

During the First World War, the squadron deployed to the Western Front in 1918 and quickly developed a fierce reputation due to its pilots' aggressive, tiger-like spirit. Its ranks included famous aces such as Mick Mannock, Taffy Jones, and Sydney Carlin, who accounted for a significant number of enemy aircraft.

In World War II, No. 74 Squadron was equipped with the Supermarine Spitfire and served during the Battle of Britain from RAF Biggin Hill in No. 10 Group. The squadron continued to operate Spitfire variants throughout the war, supporting the Allied amphibious landings and conducting armed sweeps over occupied Europe. Post-war, the squadron served in Germany with the British Army of the Rhine and later with 2nd Tactical Air Force.