4703d Defense Wing facts for kids
Quick facts for kids 4703d Defense Wing  |
|
|---|---|
| Active | 1952 |
| Country |  United States |
| Branch |  United States Air Force |
| Type | Fighter Interceptor |
| Role | Air Defense |
| Part of | Air Defense Command |
The 4703d Defense Wing was a special unit of the United States Air Force that no longer exists. It was part of the Air Defense Command (ADC) and was based at Larson Air Force Base (AFB) in Washington state. This unit was created in 1952 as part of a big change in how the Air Defense Command was organized.
Before this, air force units called "wings" were in charge of just one base. But the new plan made wings responsible for a larger area. The 4703d Defense Wing took control of several fighter jet squadrons. These squadrons had been part of the 101st Fighter-Interceptor Wing, which was an Air National Guard unit called up for the Korean War. The 4703d Defense Wing and its support group were only active for about 45 days. This was because Larson Air Force Base became a base for another command, the Tactical Air Command. The units from the 4703d Defense Wing then moved to the nearby 4702d Defense Wing.
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A Short History of the 4703d Defense Wing
The 4703d Defense Wing started at Larson AFB, Washington, on February 1, 1952. This was part of a major change for the Air Defense Command. They found it hard to move fighter jet squadrons where they were needed most with the old system.
The new wing took over the people and planes from the 101st Fighter-Interceptor Wing. This unit was then sent back to the Air National Guard. The 82nd Fighter Interceptor Squadron also moved to Larson AFB. It replaced the 319th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, which went to Korea. Both of these squadrons flew F-94 Starfire interceptor aircraft. These planes were designed to stop enemy aircraft.
However, the 4703d Defense Wing did not last long. Larson AFB was given to the Tactical Air Command in April 1952. The 82nd Fighter Interceptor Squadron was moved to another unit in March. The 4703d Air Defense Wing was then officially closed. The remaining Air Defense Command squadron at Larson AFB eventually moved to the 4702nd Defense Wing. This unit moved to Geiger Field later in 1952.
Key Dates for the 4703d Defense Wing
- The 4703d Defense Wing was created on February 1, 1952.
- It was officially closed on April 7, 1952.
Where the Wing Was Based
- The 4703d Defense Wing was located at Larson AFB, Washington, from February 1, 1952, to April 7, 1952.
Aircraft Used by the Wing
- The main aircraft used was the F-94B, in 1952.
