About this Unit
The 57th Wing, based at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, is a key component of the United States Air Force’s Air Combat Command. Originally activated in 1941 as the 57th Pursuit Group, it distinguished itself in World War II, particularly in the North African and Italian campaigns. Reactivated and redesignated several times over the decades, the unit now oversees advanced air combat training, including the famed USAF Weapons School and the Aggressor squadrons. Today, the 57th Wing plays a pivotal role in preparing Air Force personnel for modern aerial warfare through exercises such as Red Flag.
Historical Facts
• Origins in World War II: The 57th Wing traces its roots to the 57th Fighter Group, established in 1941, which saw extensive combat in North Africa and Italy flying P-40 Warhawks and later P-47 Thunderbolts.
• Desert Air Force: The 57th supported the British Eighth Army as part of the famous Desert Air Force, playing a critical role in the defeat of Axis forces in North Africa.
• First U.S. Group to Land on Sicily: During Operation Husky in 1943, the 57th became the first American fighter group to land on the island of Sicily, supporting Allied ground forces.
• Transition to Tactical Training: Today, the 57th Wing, based at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, is the U.S. Air Force’s premier advanced air combat training unit, running exercises like Red Flag and Green Flag.
• Aggressor Squadrons: The 57th’s Aggressor Squadrons simulate enemy tactics and aircraft, providing realistic adversary training for U.S. and allied aircrews.
• Home of the Thunderbirds: The 57th Wing is home to the USAF Air Demonstration Squadron, known as the Thunderbirds, who perform precision aerial demonstrations worldwide.
• Red Flag Exercises: The 57th Wing hosts the world-renowned Red Flag exercises, providing realistic combat training involving U.S. and allied air forces from around the globe.
• Electronic Combat Training: The Wing oversees advanced electronic warfare and combat training, preparing crews to operate in highly contested environments.
• Integration of Cutting-Edge Aircraft: The 57th Wing incorporates the latest fighters, such as the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, into its training and exercises.
• Support to Combat Operations: The 57th Wing’s training and readiness initiatives directly support real-world combat operations, ensuring U.S. air superiority in conflicts worldwide.
