In June 1941 Captain Robson received a shrapnel wound to the foot while fighting in Syria. Attached to the Middle East Tactical School, he rejoined his unit in February 1942 and served with distinction in North Africa, being promoted to major on 8 October 1942. On 3 December 1942, Robson departed North Africa with his unit, disembarking at Brisbane, Queensland, on 8 January 1943. On 11 June 1943, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel and given command of the 2/31st Battalion.