497th RTG

The 497th Reconnaissance Technical Group (497th RTG) was a United States Air Force unit activated in 1953. Its primary mission was to provide photographic and imagery intelligence processing, interpretation, and dissemination, supporting U.S. and allied air operations during the Cold War. Stationed at Wiesbaden Air Base, Germany, the 497th RTG played a critical role in NATO intelligence efforts, particularly monitoring Warsaw Pact activities. The unit continued its vital reconnaissance and intelligence functions until its inactivation in 1992 following the end of the Cold War.