About this Unit
The 735th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W) was activated in 1950 as part of the United States Air Force's expanding radar defense network during the early Cold War. Initially stationed at Middleton Island Air Force Station in Alaska, the squadron was tasked with providing early warning and airspace surveillance against potential Soviet air threats. Utilizing ground-based radar systems, the 735th played a vital role in the air defense of North America, particularly during periods of heightened tension. The unit was eventually inactivated in 1963 as advances in radar technology and shifting defense priorities led to the consolidation of air defense assets.
Historical Facts
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Activation and Purpose: The 735th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W) was activated in 1950 as part of the United States Air Force’s effort to establish a robust radar network during the early Cold War to detect and intercept potential Soviet bomber attacks.
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Location: The squadron was stationed at Duluth Air Force Station, Minnesota, a strategic site near the US-Canada border, chosen for monitoring potential threats approaching from the polar region.
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Role in Air Defense: The 735th AC&W Squadron operated ground-based radar systems to track and identify all aircraft in their sector, providing critical early warning and direction for interceptor aircraft.
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Cold War Tensions: The unit played a vital role during periods of heightened Cold War tensions, particularly during the Korean War and Cuban Missile Crisis, where rapid response to unidentified aircraft was paramount.
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Technological Evolution: Over its years of operation, the 735th saw upgrades in radar technology, transitioning from early AN/CPS-6B radars to more advanced AN/FPS-20 and AN/FPS-66 search radars.
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SAGE Integration: In the late 1950s and early 1960s, the squadron became part of the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) system, linking its radars to a continent-wide computer network for faster and more coordinated air defense.
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Community Impact: The squadron’s presence brought economic and social activity to the Duluth area, with airmen and their families becoming part of the local community.
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Scrambles and Drills: The 735th regularly conducted practice scrambles and exercises, simulating Soviet bomber attacks to ensure readiness and keep personnel sharp.
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Deactivation: With advances in missile technology and changes in defense strategy, the squadron was inactivated on 1 July 1963, as its mission became less critical to US air defense.
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Legacy: The legacy of the 735th AC&W Squadron lives on through veterans’ stories and its role in laying the foundation for modern integrated air defense systems.
