About this Unit
The 11th Air Refueling Squadron (11th ARS) was first activated in 1942 as the 11th Combat Cargo Squadron and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, providing critical airlift support. Reactivated and redesignated as the 11th Air Refueling Squadron in 1955, the unit became an integral part of Strategic Air Command, operating KC-97 and later KC-135 aircraft to extend the range of U.S. bombers and fighters during the Cold War. Throughout its history, the 11th ARS participated in major operations, including support missions during the Vietnam War and Desert Storm. The unit was inactivated in 1994 as part of post-Cold War restructuring but left a legacy of distinguished aerial refueling service.
Historical Facts
• Origins in WWII: The 11th Air Refueling Squadron (ARS) traces its lineage back to the 11th Combat Cargo Squadron, activated in June 1944 during World War II, where it supported operations in the China-Burma-India Theater.
• Air Refueling Pioneers: The squadron became one of the early units to operate the KC-97 Stratofreighter, helping to refine aerial refueling techniques in the 1950s.
• Cold War Sentinel: Stationed at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, the 11th ARS played a critical role in Strategic Air Command’s nuclear deterrence posture during the Cold War.
• Vietnam War Support: The squadron supported Air Force operations in the Vietnam War, providing essential aerial refueling for fighter and bomber aircraft deploying to and from Southeast Asia.
• KC-135 Transition: In the 1960s, the 11th ARS transitioned to the KC-135 Stratotanker, dramatically increasing its refueling capacity and global reach.
• Desert Storm Contributions: The unit played a vital role during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, ensuring sustained air operations by refueling coalition aircraft in the Middle East.
• Multiple Redesignations: Throughout its history, the squadron has undergone several redesignations and inactivations, demonstrating adaptability to changing Air Force missions and priorities.
• Distinguished Unit Awards: The 11th ARS has received several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its exemplary performance and operational excellence.
• Legacy of Training: At various times, the squadron has been involved in training aircrew and support personnel, passing on critical aerial refueling expertise to new generations.
• Inactivation and Heritage: The 11th ARS was inactivated in 1994, but its legacy continues in the Air Force’s air mobility and refueling community, and its lineage is preserved by successor units.
