15th Fighter Wing

• Origins in World War II: The 15th Fighter Wing traces its heritage to the 15th Pursuit Group, activated in December 1940 at Wheeler Field, Hawaii, just before the attack on Pearl Harbor. • Pearl Harbor Defense: Pilots from the 15th Group famously scrambled their P-36 and P-40 fighters on December 7, 1941, and engaged Japanese aircraft during the attack on Pearl Harbor. • Evolution of Aircraft: Over the decades, the wing has operated a wide variety of aircraft, including the P-40 Warhawk, F-86 Sabre, F-102 Delta Dagger, and the F-15 Eagle. • Strategic Location: Based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, the 15th Fighter Wing holds a critical position for U.S. air defense and power projection in the Pacific. • Host Wing Responsibilities: The 15th Wing serves as the host unit for Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, supporting Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Army, and Coast Guard operations. • Pacific Air Mobility: The wing is responsible for supporting air mobility operations, aerial refueling, and airlift missions throughout the Indo-Pacific region. • F-22 Raptor Operations: The 15th Wing is renowned for operating the advanced F-22 Raptor, in partnership with the Hawaii Air National Guard’s 154th Wing, making it a key element of U.S. air superiority in the Pacific. • Humanitarian Missions: The wing has participated in numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations across the Pacific, such as after typhoons and tsunamis. • Distinguished Unit Awards: The 15th has been recognized with multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for exceptional performance in both combat and peacetime missions. • Legacy of Innovation: The unit has been at the forefront of integrating new technology and tactics, including the adoption of advanced fighter jets and cutting-edge training programs to maintain readiness.