About this Unit
RAF Mildenhall, located in Suffolk, England, has been a pivotal site for Allied air operations since its establishment in 1934. During World War II, it served as a base for RAF Bomber Command, launching numerous missions over Europe. In 1950, the United States Air Force (USAF) began operations at the base, transforming it into a key hub for aerial refueling, reconnaissance, and special operations under the 100th Air Refueling Wing. Today, NAF Mildenhall (Naval Air Facility Mildenhall), while primarily a USAF installation, also supports U.S. Navy and allied forces, playing a vital role in NATO and U.S. military operations across Europe and beyond.
Historical Facts
• RAF Origins: NAF Mildenhall was originally established in 1934 as a Royal Air Force (RAF) station, first used for the Royal Air Force’s bomber squadrons before World War II.
• Historic Air Races: The base gained international fame as the starting point for the 1934 MacRobertson Air Race, a historic long-distance air race from England to Australia.
• World War II Role: During WWII, Mildenhall hosted RAF Bomber Command units, conducting strategic bombing missions over Europe, including the famous Avro Lancaster bombers.
• USAF Control: In 1950, the United States Air Force (USAF) began operations at Mildenhall, marking a significant shift in the station’s role as a key hub for American air operations in Europe.
• SR-71 Blackbird Operations: Mildenhall was the only base in Europe to regularly host the legendary SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance aircraft, which operated from the base during the Cold War.
• Air-to-Air Refueling: The base is home to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, whose KC-135 Stratotankers provide crucial aerial refueling support for NATO and allied operations across Europe and beyond.
• Special Operations Hub: NAF Mildenhall also houses the 352nd Special Operations Wing, supporting special operations missions, including the deployment of CV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft and MC-130J Commando II.
• VIP and Presidential Visits: The base has hosted numerous high-profile visits, including those by U.S. Presidents, NATO officials, and British royalty, due to its importance as a transatlantic gateway.
• Cold War Espionage: Mildenhall played a covert role during the Cold War, supporting intelligence gathering, reconnaissance flights, and electronic surveillance missions over the Soviet bloc.
• Enduring Partnership: Despite periodic announcements of closure or realignment, NAF Mildenhall remains a symbol of enduring UK-US military cooperation, continuing to play a vital role in NATO and allied defense.
