About this Unit
The 27th Fighter Wing was established in 1947 as part of the post-World War II reorganization of the United States Air Force. Initially stationed at Kearney Army Airfield, Nebraska, the wing was equipped with the F-51 Mustang before transitioning to jet aircraft such as the F-84 Thunderjet. Throughout the Korean War, the 27th Fighter Wing played a significant role in providing air support and escort missions. Over the decades, the wing has been based at various locations and flown multiple advanced fighter aircraft, continuing its legacy of excellence in air combat and defense operations.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 27th Fighter Wing traces its lineage to the 27th Bombardment Group, activated in 1940, which fought valiantly in the Pacific Theater during World War II, including the defense of the Philippines.
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Redesignation and Jets: After WWII, the unit was redesignated as the 27th Fighter Wing in 1947, becoming one of the first jet fighter wings in the U.S. Air Force and flying early jets like the F-82 Twin Mustang and F-84 Thunderjet.
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Korean War Combat: The 27th saw combat in the Korean War, flying F-84s on bombing and ground attack missions, and earning two Distinguished Unit Citations for its actions.
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Operation Fox Peter One: In 1952, the 27th executed the first mass transatlantic deployment of jet fighters (Operation Fox Peter One), flying F-84s from the U.S. to Europe, setting a precedent for future deployments.
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Cold War Era: Throughout the Cold War, the wing was based at Bergstrom Air Force Base, Texas, where it played a major role in Tactical Air Command and helped maintain U.S. airpower readiness.
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Vietnam War Involvement: Elements of the 27th participated in the Vietnam War, deploying personnel and aircraft in support of combat operations in Southeast Asia.
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Transition to F-111 Aardvark: In the 1970s, the 27th transitioned to the General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark, a groundbreaking swing-wing fighter-bomber, and became one of the premier F-111 units in the world.
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Desert Storm Deployment: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, the wing deployed its F-111s to the Middle East, conducting precision strikes against Iraqi targets with great effectiveness.
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BRAC and Move to Cannon AFB: In 1993, after Bergstrom AFB closed, the 27th moved to Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, where it continues its legacy today.
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Current Special Operations Mission: Since 2007, the 27th has been designated the 27th Special Operations Wing, flying aircraft such as the AC-130, MC-130, and CV-22 Osprey in support of U.S. Special Operations Command missions worldwide.
