About this Unit
The 15th Air Force was originally established in 1943 during World War II as part of the United States Army Air Forces, playing a crucial role in the strategic bombing campaign in Southern and Eastern Europe. After the war, it was reactivated and eventually became an integral component of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) during the Cold War. Under SAC, the 15th Air Force managed and coordinated numerous bomber and tanker wings, providing nuclear deterrence and global strike capabilities. Throughout its tenure with SAC, the 15th Air Force contributed significantly to U.S. strategic readiness until SAC's inactivation in 1992, when the unit was realigned under Air Mobility Command.
Historical Facts
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Origins in WWII: The 15th Air Force was established in November 1943 and was based in Italy, playing a major role in the bombing campaigns against Axis targets in Southern and Central Europe.
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Strategic Bombing: During WWII, the 15th Air Force specialized in long-range strategic bombing, targeting oil refineries, aircraft factories, and transportation hubs critical to the Nazi war effort.
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Redesignation under SAC: In March 1946, after WWII, the 15th Air Force became part of the newly formed Strategic Air Command (SAC), focusing on nuclear deterrence and strategic bombing during the Cold War.
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Headquarters: For much of its SAC existence, the 15th Air Force was headquartered at March Air Force Base, California, overseeing bomber and tanker wings across the western United States.
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Role in Cuban Missile Crisis: 15th Air Force units were placed on high alert during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, ready to respond with nuclear-armed bombers if necessary.
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Contribution to Vietnam War: The 15th Air Force provided B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotanker support for operations such as Arc Light and Linebacker during the Vietnam War.
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Massive Bomber Force: At its Cold War peak, the 15th Air Force controlled dozens of wings, including hundreds of B-52 bombers and KC-135 tankers, forming a key part of America's strategic triad.
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Global Reach: The 15th Air Force managed deployments to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, supporting NATO and U.S. interests around the globe.
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Women Airforce Service Pilots: During WWII, the 15th Air Force utilized Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) for non-combat ferrying and transport missions, breaking gender barriers in military aviation.
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Legacy and Reactivation: Though inactivated in 2003, the 15th Air Force was reactivated in 2020 as part of Air Combat Command, continuing its legacy of command and control over major operational units.
