6987th Security Squadron

• Origins and Designation: The 6987th Security Squadron was a United States Air Force unit established in the early 1960s, specializing in signals intelligence (SIGINT) during the Cold War. • Location: The squadron was based at Shu Linkou Air Station, near Taipei, Taiwan, playing a crucial role in monitoring regional communications. • Mission Focus: Its primary mission involved intercepting, analyzing, and relaying communications from the People’s Republic of China, the Soviet Union, and other nearby entities. • Role in Vietnam War: The 6987th provided critical intelligence support to U.S. forces during the Vietnam War, including tracking enemy troop movements and air defense networks. • Collaboration with Allies: The unit often worked closely with other American intelligence agencies and allies, including the National Security Agency (NSA) and Republic of China forces. • Specialized Equipment: Members operated advanced electronic surveillance equipment, including large antenna arrays and cryptographic devices, to intercept radio and radar signals. • Notable Personnel: Many veterans of the 6987th went on to distinguished careers in military and intelligence fields, with some contributing to declassified SIGINT history publications. • Living Conditions: Personnel stationed at Shu Linkou experienced a unique blend of American and Taiwanese cultures, with access to both U.S. military amenities and local Taipei attractions. • Deactivation: The squadron was inactivated in the late 1970s, following the U.S. diplomatic recognition shift from Taipei to Beijing and the withdrawal of most U.S. forces from Taiwan. • Veterans' Legacy: Former members maintain an active reunion network and preserve the history of the 6987th through websites and annual gatherings, sharing stories and memorabilia from their service.