Keeping in tradition of its fighter past, 416 Lynx Squadron reclaimed its colours from the City of Oshawa and formed the last of the CF-18 fighter squadrons in the Canadian Forces on December 9, 1988.

416 Tactical Fighter Squadron began its term as a rapid reinforcement squadron based at 4 Wing Cold Lake, but required to deploy to and become part of No.3 Fighter Wing Lahr, Germany.

In early 1990, 416 Squadron took an active role in the UN coalition force against Iraq by joining forces with 439 Tiger Squadron in Doha, Qatar to form the Desert Cats. While protection of the coalition Naval Force was their primary task, 416 Squadron pilots led the way in performing sweep, escort and eventually bombing missions into Kuwait and Iraq.

Shortly after returning home in March 1991, in order to adapt to changing world events, 416 Lynx Squadron assumed a contingency operations role while retaining its NORAD commitment.

416 Squadron has been named as one of the units to receive a Canadian Forces Unit Commendation in recognition of their superb performance during the Gulf War.

416 Squadron was awarded an honourary distinction for significantly reinforcing the deployed tactical fighter force which fought in the theatre.

416 Squadron members are prepared to meet the future challenges presented to them and continue to be....AD SALTUM PARATUS (READY FOR THE LEAP)