On 1 July 1937, Afghanistan expanded its early air force by forming a new operational unit focused on reconnaissance and training. The government sought to modernize national defense institutions by acquiring additional aircraft and training pilots abroad. The expansion marked an important step toward building a more structured air command. Afghan officers returning from foreign military academies played significant roles in shaping the new unit. The development reflected King Zahir Shah’s gradual modernization efforts during the late 1930s.
