The 1st Special Operations Wing (1st SOW) is one of five active-duty special operations wings in the Air Force. It operates iconic aircraft like the AC-130J Ghostrider, CV-22B Osprey, and MQ-9 Reaper. The need for a special category of United States Air Force operations became apparent in the Cold War, and today, the 1st SOW is one of the Air Force’s specialized wings designed to carry out close air support, conduct ISR missions, perform combat rescue missions, and more.
1st SOW, a specialized agile close support wing
The 1st falls under the command of the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), which is a pivotal component of the Air Force’s ability to provide airports and conduct special operations missions around the world. It is the successor to the 16th Pursuit Group and one of the 15 original combat air groups formed by the Army before its entry into World War II.
Photo: USAF
What To Know About The US Air Force 1st Special Operations Wing At Hurlburt Field
