USAFSS Misawa, Japan

The United States Air Force Security Service (USAFSS) unit at Misawa Air Base, Japan, was established in the early 1950s as part of America’s Cold War signals intelligence efforts. Tasked with intercepting and analyzing communications from the Soviet Union, China, and other regional actors, the unit played a critical role in gathering electronic intelligence throughout Northeast Asia. USAFSS personnel operated advanced listening equipment and worked closely with allied Japanese forces, contributing to both tactical and strategic missions. The unit remained active at Misawa until its mission was reorganized under successor intelligence commands in the 1970s, helping to lay the groundwork for modern U.S. Air Force intelligence operations in the Pacific.