About this Unit
The 564th Strategic Missile Squadron (SMS) was an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) unit of the United States Air Force. Activated in 1960, it was assigned to Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana as part of the 341st Strategic Missile Wing. The squadron was initially equipped with the Minuteman I and later upgraded to Minuteman II and Minuteman III missiles, playing a key role in America’s nuclear deterrent during the Cold War. The 564th SMS was deactivated in 2008 as part of ongoing missile force reductions.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Activation: The 564th Strategic Missile Squadron (SMS) was originally activated on December 15, 1942, during World War II as a bombardment squadron before later becoming a missile unit.
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World War II Service: As the 564th Bombardment Squadron, it flew B-24 Liberators in the European Theater, participating in significant bombing campaigns against Axis targets.
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Transition to Missiles: The unit was redesignated as the 564th Strategic Missile Squadron and activated on July 1, 1960, as part of the United States' rapidly growing intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) force during the Cold War.
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Minuteman I Deployment: The 564th SMS became the first unit to be equipped with the LGM-30A Minuteman I ICBM, marking a major technological leap in nuclear deterrence.
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Unique Configuration: Unlike other ICBM squadrons, the 564th SMS’s missile sites were configured with above-ground launch facilities, rather than the more common underground silos.
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Strategic Location: The squadron was based at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, an ideal location for intercepting potential missile threats and providing maximum coverage of the Soviet Union.
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Minuteman III Upgrade: In the 1970s, the 564th SMS upgraded to the more advanced LGM-30G Minuteman III missiles, enhancing its accuracy and survivability.
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Deactivation: As part of post-Cold War arms reduction measures, the 564th SMS was deactivated on August 15, 2008, ending nearly five decades of strategic missile operations.
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Historical Legacy: The 564th SMS was the last U.S. Air Force ICBM squadron with above-ground launch facilities, making its infrastructure unique in American missile history.
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Commemoration: The legacy of the 564th SMS is preserved at Malmstrom AFB, where a deactivated missile site serves as a historical display for visitors and military personnel.
