About this Unit
The 1st Combat Evaluation Group (1CEVG) was a United States Air Force unit established in 1961 to enhance the effectiveness of Strategic Air Command's (SAC) bomber and missile forces during the Cold War. The group was responsible for operational evaluation, radar bomb scoring, and electronic countermeasure tests, ensuring SAC aircrews maintained combat readiness and precision. Headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, 1CEVG operated numerous radar sites across the United States and abroad, providing realistic training and assessment. The unit played a vital role in improving U.S. strategic deterrence capabilities until its inactivation in 1992 following the end of the Cold War and the restructuring of Air Force evaluation programs.
Historical Facts
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Origins in Radar Bomb Scoring: The 1st Combat Evaluation Group (1CEVG) originated from units established during World War II to evaluate and improve bomber crew accuracy using radar technology. Its roots trace back to the 206th Army Air Forces Base Unit (Radar Bomb Scoring).
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Cold War Mission: During the Cold War, 1CEVG played a critical role in evaluating the bombing accuracy of U.S. Strategic Air Command (SAC) crews, ensuring readiness in the event of nuclear war.
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Nickname “Bomb Scorers”: Members of the group were known as “Bomb Scorers,” as they operated radar sites that tracked and “scored” simulated bomb drops by SAC bombers during training missions.
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Mobile Radar Operations: The group deployed mobile radar bomb scoring (RBS) units across the United States, and even in Canada and the UK, often using converted railway cars, trucks, or trailers to house their equipment.
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Vietnam War Service: Elements of the 1CEVG operated in Southeast Asia, providing radar guidance to B-52s and other strike aircraft during the Vietnam War, especially in “Combat Skyspot” missions.
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“Combat Skyspot” System: 1CEVG’s Detachment 6 was instrumental in Operation Combat Skyspot, using ground-based radar to direct bombers to their targets in poor visibility, greatly increasing bombing effectiveness.
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Strategic Impact: The group’s evaluations directly influenced improvements in bombing strategy, aircraft equipment, and crew training throughout the Cold War era.
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Guardian of Nuclear Deterrence: By maintaining high standards for bomber accuracy, 1CEVG contributed to the credibility of the United States’ nuclear deterrent posture.
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Complex Scoring Networks: At its peak, 1CEVG managed dozens of fixed and mobile sites, creating a nationwide network to support SAC training exercises.
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Deactivation and Legacy: The group was deactivated in 1992 after the end of the Cold War, but its personnel and missions were absorbed into other units, and its legacy continues in USAF evaluation programs today.
