About this Unit
The 25th Flying Training Squadron (25 FTS) is a United States Air Force unit with a distinguished history dating back to World War II. Originally activated in 1942 as the 25th Pursuit Squadron, it served in the China-Burma-India Theater, flying missions in support of Allied forces. Over the decades, the squadron underwent several redesignations and played various roles, including tactical fighter operations during the Cold War era. Today, the 25 FTS is assigned to the 71st Flying Training Wing at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma, where it is responsible for training the next generation of Air Force pilots.
Historical Facts
• Formation and Purpose: The 25th Flying Training Squadron (25 FTS) was originally activated as part of the United States Air Force with the mission to train new pilots and aviation cadets.
• World War II Origins: The squadron traces its lineage back to World War II, where it was first activated as the 25th Pursuit Squadron in 1941, flying various fighter aircraft during the war.
• Aircraft Flown: Over its history, the 25 FTS has operated a variety of aircraft, including the P-40 Warhawk, P-47 Thunderbolt, T-37 Tweet, and the current T-38 Talon.
• Training Excellence: The squadron is known for its rigorous undergraduate pilot training, shaping generations of Air Force pilots, and is a vital part of the 71st Flying Training Wing at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma.
• Distinctive Emblem: The 25 FTS is nicknamed the “Shooters” and their emblem features a stylized eagle grasping lightning bolts, symbolizing speed and power.
• Combat Heritage: During WWII, the squadron operated in the China-Burma-India Theater, providing critical air defense, ground attack, and escort missions.
• Reactivation and Modern Era: The unit has been inactivated and reactivated several times, most recently reactivated in 1990 at Vance AFB to conduct specialized undergraduate pilot training.
• International Training: 25 FTS has trained not only American pilots but also allied military aviators from countries such as Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Japan, fostering global partnerships.
• Safety Record: The squadron has received multiple awards for its outstanding safety record and contributions to flight training excellence.
• Alumni Achievements: Many graduates and instructors from the 25 FTS have gone on to become senior Air Force leaders, astronauts, and test pilots, influencing both military and civilian aviation.
