About this Unit
The 940th Air Refueling Wing (940 ARW) is a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve, currently stationed at Beale Air Force Base, California. Established in 1963 as the 940th Troop Carrier Group, it has undergone several redesignations and mission changes, including tactical airlift and air refueling roles. The wing began operating the KC-135 Stratotanker in the 1970s, providing vital aerial refueling support to U.S. and allied aircraft worldwide. Today, the 940th ARW continues to enhance global reach and combat readiness through its air refueling and support missions.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War II: The 940th Air Refueling Wing traces its lineage to the 940th Troop Carrier Group, activated in 1963, but its heritage dates back to World War II with predecessor units involved in airlift operations.
•
Reserve Component: The 940th is a unit of the Air Force Reserve Command, providing vital air refueling and mobility capabilities in support of U.S. and allied operations.
•
Stationed at Beale AFB: The wing is based at Beale Air Force Base, California, strategically located to support operations across the Pacific and continental United States.
•
KC-135 Stratotanker: The 940th operates the KC-135 Stratotanker, a mainstay of the U.S. aerial refueling fleet, extending the range and reach of American and allied aircraft.
•
Multiple Mission Changes: The wing has shifted between roles, including airlift, air refueling, and reconnaissance missions, adapting to the evolving needs of national defense.
•
Support to Major Operations: Members of the 940th have deployed in support of operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and numerous humanitarian missions worldwide.
•
Transition to Reconnaissance (2008-2016): For several years, the wing flew the RQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicle, providing high-altitude intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
•
Return to Refueling: In 2016, the 940th transitioned back to its air refueling mission, once again flying KC-135s and playing a key role in global mobility.
•
Citizen Airmen: The wing is comprised of both full-time and traditional reservists, many of whom balance civilian careers and military service, embodying the "Citizen Airman" concept.
•
Distinguished Unit Awards: The 940th and its predecessor organizations have earned several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, recognizing their excellence and contributions to national security.
