57th Wing

• Origins in World War II: The 57th Wing traces its roots to the 57th Fighter Group, established in 1941, which saw extensive combat in North Africa and Italy flying P-40 Warhawks and later P-47 Thunderbolts. • Desert Air Force: The 57th supported the British Eighth Army as part of the famous Desert Air Force, playing a critical role in the defeat of Axis forces in North Africa. • First U.S. Group to Land on Sicily: During Operation Husky in 1943, the 57th became the first American fighter group to land on the island of Sicily, supporting Allied ground forces. • Transition to Tactical Training: Today, the 57th Wing, based at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, is the U.S. Air Force’s premier advanced air combat training unit, running exercises like Red Flag and Green Flag. • Aggressor Squadrons: The 57th’s Aggressor Squadrons simulate enemy tactics and aircraft, providing realistic adversary training for U.S. and allied aircrews. • Home of the Thunderbirds: The 57th Wing is home to the USAF Air Demonstration Squadron, known as the Thunderbirds, who perform precision aerial demonstrations worldwide. • Red Flag Exercises: The 57th Wing hosts the world-renowned Red Flag exercises, providing realistic combat training involving U.S. and allied air forces from around the globe. • Electronic Combat Training: The Wing oversees advanced electronic warfare and combat training, preparing crews to operate in highly contested environments. • Integration of Cutting-Edge Aircraft: The 57th Wing incorporates the latest fighters, such as the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, into its training and exercises. • Support to Combat Operations: The 57th Wing’s training and readiness initiatives directly support real-world combat operations, ensuring U.S. air superiority in conflicts worldwide.