About this Unit
RAF Alconbury is a Royal Air Force station located in Cambridgeshire, England, established in 1938. During World War II, it served as a base for both RAF and United States Army Air Forces bomber and reconnaissance units, playing a vital role in the air campaign over Europe. After the war, RAF Alconbury became a key site for the United States Air Force during the Cold War, hosting various reconnaissance and tactical fighter squadrons. Though flying operations ceased in 1995, the base continues to support USAF activities and remains an important administrative and support center.
Historical Facts
•
Early Origins: RAF Alconbury was established in 1938 as a Royal Air Force station and played a pivotal role during World War II.
•
USAAF Base: In 1942, the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) took over Alconbury, making it a key Eighth Air Force base for B-17 Flying Fortress and later B-24 Liberator bomber operations.
•
Secret Missions: The 801st Bomb Group, known as the "Carpetbaggers," operated from Alconbury in 1944, flying clandestine missions to drop supplies and agents behind enemy lines in Nazi-occupied Europe.
•
Postwar Era: After WWII, Alconbury returned to RAF control, but the US Air Force came back in 1951, beginning a long period of American use during the Cold War.
•
U-2 Spy Plane Operations: In the late 1950s and early 1960s, RAF Alconbury was used as a base for U-2 reconnaissance flights, gathering vital intelligence during the height of the Cold War.
•
RF-4C Phantom II: The base was home to the 10th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, which flew the RF-4C Phantom II on photographic and electronic reconnaissance missions across Europe.
•
Gulf War Involvement: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, Alconbury-based units played a crucial role in providing reconnaissance and intelligence support.
•
Underground Bunkers: The base is known for its extensive and hardened underground command and control bunkers, built for Cold War survivability.
•
Community Ties: RAF Alconbury has fostered strong Anglo-American community relations, including school exchanges, charity events, and local partnerships.
•
Modern Era: While flying operations ceased in 1995, RAF Alconbury remains an active support site for the USAF, housing the headquarters for the 501st Combat Support Wing as of 2024.
