4080SW

The 4080th Strategic Wing (4080 SW) was an important unit of the United States Air Force, established in 1956 at Turner Air Force Base, Georgia. The wing is most notable for its role in operating the Lockheed U-2 reconnaissance aircraft during the Cold War, conducting high-altitude intelligence-gathering missions over the Soviet Union and other adversaries. In 1957, the unit moved to Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, where it continued its vital strategic reconnaissance operations. The 4080th SW also operated the RB-57D Canberra aircraft and contributed significantly to intelligence efforts until it was discontinued in 1966, with its operations absorbed by other strategic units.