About this Unit
The 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, was established in 1962 and is headquartered at Warfield Air National Guard Base in Middle River, Maryland. Initially organized as the 175th Tactical Fighter Group, the unit has operated a range of aircraft, including the A-10C Thunderbolt II, supporting both state and federal missions. The 175th Wing has deployed personnel and equipment for operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing close air support and combat search and rescue. In addition to its federal missions, the Wing has played a key role in disaster response and homeland security within Maryland and the mid-Atlantic region.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Heritage: The 175th Wing was established in 1962 as the 175th Tactical Fighter Group, continuing the legacy of its predecessor, the 104th Fighter Squadron, which dates back to World War II.
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Operational Base: The wing is headquartered at Martin State Airport near Baltimore, Maryland, serving as a vital component of the Maryland Air National Guard.
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A-10 Thunderbolt II: The 175th Wing is renowned for operating the A-10C Thunderbolt II, a close air support aircraft known as the “Warthog,” and has maintained this mission since the early 1990s.
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Global Deployments: Members of the 175th Wing have deployed to numerous locations worldwide, including combat operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Balkans, supporting Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom.
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First Maryland Unit to Deploy After 9/11: The 175th Wing was the first Maryland Air National Guard unit to deploy following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, providing support for Operation Noble Eagle.
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Cyber Capabilities: The 175th Wing includes the 175th Cyberspace Operations Group, making it one of the few Air National Guard units with a significant cyber mission, defending national digital infrastructure.
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Hurricane Katrina Response: In 2005, the wing played a crucial role in the response to Hurricane Katrina, providing humanitarian aid and disaster relief in the Gulf Coast region.
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Distinguished Alumni: Brigadier General Guy Walsh, a former commander of the 175th Wing, later became the first commander of the United States Air Force's Cyber Operations Group.
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Community Engagement: The wing actively participates in civic events, airshows, and educational outreach, strengthening ties with local communities in Maryland.
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“Baltimore’s Best Kept Secret”: Despite its significant role in national defense and disaster response, the 175th Wing is often called “Baltimore’s Best Kept Secret” due to its low profile but high impact.
