In this second of four articles, the Fighter Command offensive over NW Europe during 1942 is assessed. The operations became more sophisticated and sometimes involved over twenty fighter squadrons. The Luftwaffe chose its moments to attack, usually as RAF fighters were reaching their maximum endurance, and RAF casualties losses remained heavy and almost always greater than those inflicted on the enemy. Following the German invasion of Russia, there was no discernible transfer of squadrons to the east. The huge effort in support of Operation Jubilee, the ill-fated Dieppe raid, is outlined. Whilst the operation was a failure, Fighter Command learnt many valuable lessons, not least in the command and control of fighter forces. The experience gained in the heat of offensive operations ultimately led to the Tactical Air Force formed on 1 June 1943.