Following the German invasion and cease-fire in Belgium in May 1940, several Belgian Squadrons were stationed in France where they fought alongside the French. When France capitulated a month later, the Belgian military were instructed to return to occupied Belgium. However, several pilots refused to obey orders and escaped to the UK. Between the British Government and the Belgian Embassy in London it was agreed that all flying personnel would be integrated into the RAF. Consequently, 30 Belgian pilots participated in the Battle of Britain in September 1940 of whom 8 were killed.