About this Unit
The 318th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (FIS) was a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force, primarily assigned to the Air Defense Command (ADC). Originally activated during World War II, the squadron was reactivated during the Cold War to provide air defense for the Pacific Northwest and later the West Coast of the United States. Throughout its service, the 318th FIS operated various aircraft, including the F-94 Starfire, F-102 Delta Dagger, and F-106 Delta Dart, reflecting the evolution of interceptor technology. The unit was inactivated in December 1989, having played a vital role in continental air defense during its decades of service.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 318th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (FIS) traces its lineage back to World War II, where it was first activated in August 1942 as the 318th Fighter Squadron.
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Role in Air Defense Command (ADC): The unit played a critical role in the Air Defense Command, responsible for protecting U.S. airspace, particularly during the tense years of the Cold War.
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Stationed at McChord AFB: For much of its postwar existence, the 318th FIS was based at McChord Air Force Base in Washington, a strategic location for defending the Pacific Northwest.
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Transition to Jet Aircraft: The squadron made significant transitions through various aircraft, including the F-51 Mustang, F-86 Sabre, F-102 Delta Dagger, and ultimately the F-106 Delta Dart.
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Cuban Missile Crisis Alert: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the 318th FIS was placed on high alert, prepared to intercept potential Soviet bombers or missiles.
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Nickname "Green Dragons": The squadron was known as the "Green Dragons," a reference to its squadron mascot and insignia.
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NORAD Commitment: The 318th FIS was a key component of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), regularly participating in exercises and real-world alert missions.
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F-106 Excellence: The unit was recognized for its proficiency with the F-106 Delta Dart, winning multiple awards for operational readiness and marksmanship.
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Final F-106 Unit: The 318th FIS was the last active Air Force squadron to operate the Convair F-106 Delta Dart, retiring the aircraft in 1983.
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Inactivation in 1989: The squadron was inactivated in December 1989 as part of the drawdown of Air Defense Command forces, marking the end of an era for dedicated interceptor squadrons.
