About this Unit
The 20th Tactical Fighter Wing (20 TFW) was originally activated in 1947 as part of the United States Air Force. The unit served prominently during the Cold War, stationed at various bases in Europe, including RAF Wethersfield and RAF Upper Heyford in the United Kingdom, where it provided air defense and tactical fighter capabilities for NATO. Flying aircraft such as the F-100 Super Sabre, F-111 Aardvark, and later the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the 20 TFW participated in numerous training exercises and maintained a high state of combat readiness. In 1993, the wing was inactivated at RAF Upper Heyford but was later reactivated at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, continuing its legacy as the 20th Fighter Wing.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 20th Tactical Fighter Wing traces its lineage back to the 20th Fighter Group, which was activated in 1940 and played a significant role in the European Theater during World War II, flying P-38 Lightnings and P-51 Mustangs.
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First Jet Aircraft: After World War II, the unit transitioned to jet aircraft, operating the F-84 Thunderjet in the early 1950s, marking its move into the jet age.
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NATO Deployment: The 20th TFW was one of the key U.S. Air Force units stationed in Europe during the Cold War, serving as a deterrent to Soviet aggression and participating in numerous NATO exercises.
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RAF Upper Heyford: From 1970 until its inactivation in 1993, the 20th TFW was based at RAF Upper Heyford, England, where it became famous for flying the F-111E Aardvark.
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Operation El Dorado Canyon: In 1986, aircraft and personnel from the 20th TFW participated in the U.S. air strikes against Libya, known as Operation El Dorado Canyon, demonstrating the wing's operational reach and combat capabilities.
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Nickname "The Chiefs": The wing has been known by the nickname "The Chiefs," reflecting its leadership role among fighter units.
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Decorations and Honors: The 20th TFW has earned numerous decorations, including Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and campaign streamers for its service in various conflicts.
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Transition to F-16s: In the 1990s, after leaving England, the wing was reactivated at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, and equipped with the F-16 Fighting Falcon, continuing its tradition as a premier fighter unit.
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Modern Deployments: Since its reactivation at Shaw AFB, the 20th Fighter Wing has deployed in support of Operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, flying combat missions over Iraq and Afghanistan.
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Unit Emblem and Heritage: The 20th TFW's emblem features a stylized Indian head, symbolizing strength and leadership, and its heritage is celebrated annually with reunions and commemorations by past and present members.
