310th Fighter Squadron

• Origins in World War II: The 310th Fighter Squadron was originally activated as the 310th Pursuit Squadron in 1942, flying the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk in the China-Burma-India Theater during World War II. • Flying Tigers Connection: The unit’s early pilots flew alongside the famous “Flying Tigers” of the American Volunteer Group, supporting Chinese forces against Japanese advances. • Multiple Aircraft Types: Over its history, the 310th has flown a variety of aircraft, including the P-40 Warhawk, P-47 Thunderbolt, P-51 Mustang, F-86 Sabre, F-100 Super Sabre, F-4 Phantom II, and the F-16 Fighting Falcon. • Transition to Training: After World War II, the squadron transitioned from combat to a training role, becoming a key unit for preparing new fighter pilots. • Luke Air Force Base: The 310th Fighter Squadron is based at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, a primary training location for F-16 fighter pilots in the U.S. Air Force. • Vietnam War Service: The squadron was reactivated and deployed during the Vietnam War, flying the F-100 Super Sabre in combat operations. • Distinguished Unit Citations: The 310th has earned several unit citations and commendations for its distinguished service during both World War II and the Vietnam War. • International Training: The 310th has trained pilots not only from the U.S., but also from allied nations, including Belgium, Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, and Singapore, strengthening international partnerships. • Squadron Emblem: The 310th’s emblem features a Bengal tiger, a nod to its roots in the China-Burma-India Theater and its connection to the “Flying Tigers.” • Motto: The 310th Fighter Squadron’s motto is "Top Hats," reflecting a tradition of excellence and esprit de corps within the unit.