About this Unit
The 6985th Security Squadron was a United States Air Force unit active during the Cold War, primarily tasked with signals intelligence (SIGINT) operations. It was stationed at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, from 1962 until its inactivation in 1992. The squadron played a critical role in monitoring Soviet communications and activities in the Arctic and Far East regions. Its work contributed significantly to U.S. national security, providing vital intelligence during tense periods of geopolitical rivalry.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 6985th Security Squadron was part of the United States Air Force Security Service (USAFSS), established to provide signals intelligence (SIGINT) during the Cold War.
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Location: The unit was based at Eielson Air Force Base near Fairbanks, Alaska, a strategic location for monitoring Soviet communications and activity in the Arctic region.
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Primary Mission: The squadron specialized in electronic intelligence (ELINT) and communications intelligence (COMINT), intercepting and analyzing Soviet military transmissions.
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RC-135 Operations: Airmen from the 6985th flew as part of the crews on RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft, conducting aerial surveillance missions over the Arctic and Pacific.
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EC-47 Involvement: The squadron also operated and supported EC-47 aircraft, which were modified for airborne radio direction finding and intelligence gathering.
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Cold War Tensions: The 6985th was instrumental during periods of heightened tensions, such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and various Soviet military exercises, providing critical early warning and analysis.
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Tragedy - 1969 Shootdown: On April 15, 1969, a USAF EC-121 intelligence aircraft, supported by personnel from the 6985th, was shot down by North Korean MiG-21s, resulting in the loss of all 31 crew members, including several from the squadron.
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Secrecy and Cover Names: Like many USAFSS units, the 6985th often operated under cover designations to protect the sensitive nature of its missions and locations.
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Technological Advances: The squadron was at the forefront of adopting new cryptographic and interception technologies, enabling the U.S. to stay ahead in the intelligence race against the Soviet Union.
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Legacy: The 6985th Security Squadron was eventually inactivated and its missions absorbed into successor units, but its contributions to national security and Cold War intelligence remain recognized in military history.
