About this Unit
The 6147th Tactical Control Group, known as the "Misty FACs" or "Mosquitoes," was a United States Air Force unit active during the Korean War. Established in 1950, its primary mission was to provide forward air control (FAC) and direct air support for United Nations ground forces. Operating mainly T-6 "Mosquito" aircraft, the 6147th played a crucial role in coordinating close air support and artillery strikes, greatly enhancing the effectiveness of UN air and ground operations. The group's innovative tactics and brave pilots significantly contributed to the success of interdiction missions and battlefield management throughout the conflict.
Historical Facts
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Birth of the "Mosquitoes": The 6147th Tactical Control Group was famously known as "The Mosquitoes" during the Korean War, reflecting their role in buzzing close to the enemy for spotting and directing attacks.
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Formation and Mission: Established in late 1950, the group’s primary mission was to provide airborne forward air control (FAC) for United Nations Command air strikes against enemy targets in Korea.
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Iconic Aircraft: Pilots flew the unarmed North American T-6 "Texan" (designated as "Mosquito"), a trainer aircraft modified for FAC duties, often flying at low altitudes and slow speeds over enemy lines.
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Dangerous Work: The Mosquito FACs were prime targets for enemy ground fire, resulting in high casualty rates and making their missions among the most hazardous in the theater.
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Innovative Tactics: The group pioneered the use of smoke rockets and colored smoke grenades to mark enemy targets for strike aircraft, vastly improving bombing accuracy.
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International Teamwork: The 6147th included not only U.S. Air Force personnel but also allied officers, including members from the Royal Australian Air Force and the South African Air Force, fostering international cooperation.
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The "Rover Joe" System: The group helped develop the "Rover Joe" system, which placed FAC teams with front-line Army units for real-time targeting coordination, a precursor to modern air-ground integration.
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Award-Winning Valor: Members of the 6147th received numerous decorations for bravery, including Distinguished Flying Crosses and Silver Stars, for their daring low-level missions.
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Crucial Role at Chosin Reservoir: During the desperate fighting at the Chosin Reservoir in 1950, Mosquito FACs played a pivotal role in directing air support that helped save surrounded UN troops.
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Legacy: The techniques and procedures pioneered by the 6147th TACCON Group became the foundation for modern forward air control and close air support doctrines used by air forces worldwide.
