flying squad

American  

noun

1. a trained, mobile group of police officers, business executives, labor officials, or the like, capable of performing specialized tasks whenever or wherever sent, often for use in emergencies.

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flying squad British  

noun

1. a small group of police, soldiers, etc, ready to move into action quickly

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Etymology

Origin of flying squad

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Followers on X, formerly known as Twitter, replied asking if the bird was part of "special branch" or the "flying squad".

From BBC

The corporation also promised to "intensify the number of flying squads" to monitor such instances.

From BBC

After his grandmother said yes, Noah told the crew member, “I hope you’re happy, bringing memories of flying squad into my house.”

From New York Times

According to sources, the South African police flying squad drove 60 miles to intercept four buses they alleged were carrying Chinese travelers who had been denied entry into South Africa last Friday.

From Fox News

I suspect the two circa 1927 photos were taken to promote some aspect of the Los Angeles Police Department’s new “flying squads.”

From Los Angeles Times