About this Unit
The 18th Tactical Fighter Wing (18 TFW) is a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force with a lineage tracing back to World War II. Originally established as the 18th Fighter Group in 1927, it was redesignated several times before becoming the 18th Tactical Fighter Wing in 1964. Stationed at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, the 18 TFW played a pivotal role in air defense and tactical operations throughout the Pacific, including significant involvement in the Vietnam War. Over the years, the unit has operated a variety of fighter aircraft, most notably the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-15 Eagle, maintaining its reputation as a premier fighter wing in the Pacific theater.
Historical Facts
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Oldest Active Fighter Wing: The 18th Tactical Fighter Wing (18 TFW), now known as the 18th Wing, is the oldest continuously active fighter wing in the United States Air Force, originally activated in 1927 as the 18th Pursuit Group.
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World War II Service: During World War II, the 18th Group served in the Pacific Theater, flying P-40 Warhawks, P-47 Thunderbolts, and P-38 Lightnings in combat against Japanese forces.
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Korean War Deployment: The unit played a critical role in the Korean War, flying F-51 Mustangs and later transitioning to F-86 Sabres, providing ground support and air superiority missions.
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F-4 Phantom Era: In the late 1960s and 1970s, the 18 TFW operated the F-4 Phantom II, participating in the Vietnam War and other Cold War operations in the Pacific.
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Home at Kadena Air Base: The 18th Wing has been based at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, since 1954, making it one of the longest continuously stationed USAF units overseas.
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F-15 Eagles: The 18 TFW was the first unit in the Pacific to receive the F-15 Eagle in 1979, maintaining a frontline air superiority mission to this day.
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Largest Combat Wing: The 18th Wing is the largest combat wing in the USAF, with more than 8,000 personnel and a wide variety of aircraft, including F-15s, KC-135s, E-3 Sentries (AWACS), and HH-60 helicopters.
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Multiple Missions: The 18 TFW/18th Wing conducts air superiority, aerial refueling, airborne warning and control, search and rescue, and special operations—all from its Okinawa base.
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Defending the Pacific: The wing stands as a key deterrent force in the Asia-Pacific region, able to rapidly respond to crises and conflicts, earning the nickname “Keystone of the Pacific.”
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Decorated Legacy: Throughout its history, the 18 TFW/18th Wing has received numerous awards and citations, including Distinguished Unit Citations, for its exemplary combat record and service.
