148th Fighter Wing

The 148th Fighter Wing, based in Duluth, Minnesota, is a unit of the Minnesota Air National Guard. Established in 1948 as the 179th Fighter Squadron, the unit has undergone several redesignations and has operated a range of aircraft, including the F-51 Mustang, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and most recently, the F-35A Lightning II. The 148th has supported both federal and state missions, including air defense of the United States, overseas deployments for Operations Northern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, and domestic disaster response. Renowned for its professionalism and operational excellence, the wing continues to play a vital role in national defense and community support.