86th Fighter Wing

The 86th Fighter Wing was activated in 1948 at Neubiberg Air Base, Germany, as part of the United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE), originally flying the F-47 Thunderbolt. During the early Cold War, the wing played a key role in NATO air defense, transitioning to jet aircraft such as the F-84 Thunderjet and later the F-86 Sabre. In the 1950s, the wing moved to Landstuhl Air Base (now Ramstein Air Base), continuing its air superiority and tactical missions. Over time, the unit evolved, eventually becoming the 86th Airlift Wing, though its legacy as a fighter wing remains significant in USAFE history.