About this Unit
The 6th Air Mobility Wing (6th AMW), based at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, traces its origins to the 6th Bombardment Group, established in 1919. Redesignated multiple times throughout its history, the unit gained distinction during World War II with strategic bombing missions in the Pacific Theater. In 1994, the wing assumed its current air mobility mission, providing global air refueling and airlift capabilities, primarily operating the KC-135 Stratotanker. Today, the 6th AMW supports U.S. and allied operations worldwide, serving as a key enabler of rapid global mobility for the United States Air Force.
Historical Facts
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Established During World War II: The 6th Air Mobility Wing traces its origins to 1942 when it was first activated as the 6th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and participated in operations in the Pacific Theater.
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Atomic Era Involvement: The unit played a key role in the early days of the Cold War as part of Strategic Air Command, operating B-29 and later B-36 and B-52 bombers, including missions related to nuclear deterrence.
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Relocation to MacDill AFB: In 1994, the 6th Air Base Wing was activated at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, taking over installation support and later evolving into the 6th Air Mobility Wing.
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Tanker Mission: The wing's primary aircraft is the KC-135R Stratotanker, providing vital aerial refueling support to U.S. and allied aircraft worldwide.
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Support to US Central Command (CENTCOM): MacDill AFB, home of the 6th AMW, is also the headquarters for CENTCOM and Special Operations Command, making the wing essential for supporting high-level military operations.
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Humanitarian Operations: The 6th AMW has supported numerous humanitarian missions, such as hurricane relief in the Caribbean and Gulf Coast, as well as overseas disaster response.
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Distinguished Unit Awards: The wing and its predecessor units have earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and Distinguished Unit Citations for exemplary performance in both combat and peacetime missions.
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Transition from Bombers to Mobility: The unit shifted from being a bomber group to a mobility wing, reflecting broader Air Force changes in mission focus from nuclear deterrence to global reach and rapid response.
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Community Partnerships: The 6th AMW is known for strong ties with the Tampa Bay community, participating in local events and supporting veterans, education, and charitable causes.
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Global Reach: Through its aerial refueling and airlift missions, the 6th AMW enables U.S. and coalition airpower to project force and provide aid anywhere in the world at short notice.
