About this Unit
The 26th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing (TRW) was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Phalsbourg-Bourscheid Air Base, France, during the early 1960s. Activated in 1961, the wing's primary mission was to provide tactical reconnaissance support for NATO forces in Europe, using aircraft such as the RF-84F Thunderflash. The 26th TRW played a critical role in intelligence gathering during the height of the Cold War, enhancing NATO's situational awareness. The unit was inactivated in 1963 as part of a broader realignment of U.S. forces in Europe.
Historical Facts
•
Formation and Role: The 26th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing (26th TRW) was activated in 1965 at Toul-Rosières Air Base, France, and later operated out of Phalsbourg Air Base. Its primary mission was tactical reconnaissance for NATO during the Cold War.
•
Aircraft Operated: The wing was equipped with the RF-4C Phantom II, a reconnaissance version of the famous F-4 Phantom jet, capable of high-speed, low-altitude photo reconnaissance missions.
•
Cold War Frontline: Stationed in France, the 26th TRW was strategically located on the frontlines of NATO’s defense, ready to gather crucial intelligence on Warsaw Pact movements.
•
Short Tenure at Phalsbourg: The unit’s stay at Phalsbourg Air Base was brief, from late 1965 until France’s withdrawal from NATO’s integrated military command in 1966, which forced the relocation of many American units.
•
Operation of the RB-66 Destroyer: Prior to the RF-4C, the wing previously operated the Douglas RB-66 Destroyer, a jet-powered reconnaissance bomber, during its early years.
•
French Withdrawal Impact: President Charles de Gaulle’s decision in 1966 to remove France from NATO’s integrated command resulted in the 26th TRW’s rapid move from Phalsbourg to Ramstein Air Base, Germany.
•
Legacy at Phalsbourg: Though their time at Phalsbourg was short, the 26th TRW left a significant impact, modernizing the base and establishing advanced reconnaissance capabilities.
•
Allied Cooperation: The wing worked closely with French and other NATO forces, participating in joint exercises and strengthening transatlantic military cooperation during a tense period in European history.
•
Distinguished Personnel: Many pilots and crew who served at Phalsbourg with the 26th TRW went on to have distinguished careers, contributing to subsequent U.S. Air Force reconnaissance and intelligence operations.
•
Commemoration: Veteran organizations and military historians continue to commemorate the 26th TRW’s role at Phalsbourg, recognizing its contribution to NATO’s defense during the Cold War.
