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353rd Special Operations Wing
353rd Special Operations Wing
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353rd Special Operations Wing
A 353rd Wing MC-130H Combat Talon II flies a training mission[note 1]
Active1944–1946; 1967–1970; 1989–present
Country United States
Branch United States Air Force
RoleSpecial operations
Size721 personnel authorized[1]
  • 709 military personnel
  • 13 civilian personnel
Part ofAir Force Special Operations Command
Garrison/HQKadena Air Base, Japan
NicknameBatcats
MottoCavete Cattam Latin Beware the Cat
EngagementsSouthwest Pacific Theater
Vietnam War[2]
DecorationsAir Force Meritorious Unit Award
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat "V" Device
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm
Insignia
353rd Special Operations Wing emblem
353rd Special Operations Group emblem[note 2][2][3]
353rd Special Operations Group emblem[note 3][4]

The 353rd Special Operations Wing is an operational unit of the United States Air Force Special Operations Command, stationed at Kadena Air Base, Japan.[5]

The Wing's first predecessor was activated in 1944 as the 3rd Air Commando Group. The unit was assigned to Fifth Air Force in the Philippines in 1944 for operations with North American P-51 Mustangs, Douglas C-47 Skytrains, and Stinson L-5 Sentinels. It attacked Japanese airfields and installations in the Philippines, supported ground forces on Luzon, and provided escort for missions to Formosa and the China coast. It also made raids on airfields and railways on Formosa, and furnished cover for convoys. In addition, the group transported personnel, dropped supplies to ground troops and guerrilla forces, evacuated casualties from front-line strips, adjusted artillery fire, and flew courier and mail routes.

The second predecessor of the Wing is the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing, which conducted electronic surveillance, particularly of the Ho Chi Minh Trail, in Southeast Asia from 1967 to 1970. The two units were consolidated in 1985 under the wing designation. In 1989, the consolidated unit was activated as the 353rd Special Operations Wing. In 1992, it was redesignated as the 353rd Special Operations Group, and in July 2021, it was redesignated back to 353 Special Operations Wing.

Mission

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The 353rd Special Operations Wing is the United States Air Force special forces contribution to the U.S. Special Operations Command, Pacific, a subcommand of the United States Pacific Command.[5]

Units

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The 353rd Special Operations Wing consists of the following squadrons:[6]

History

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World War II

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When activated, the 3rd Air Commando Group trained to establish and maintain an airstrip behind enemy lines, to provide for its own supply and air defense, to attack targets in the enemy's rear areas, and to furnish air support for ground operations. The group's headquarters, liaison, and airdrome squadrons, as well as its medical dispensary and the ground echelons of the 3rd Fighter Squadron (Commando) and 318th Troop Carrier Squadron sailed from the west coast in early November 1944, arriving on Leyte on 1 December 1944. The ground echelon of the 4th Fighter Squadron (Commando) sailed a week later and arrived on Leyte in early January 1945. The flying personnel of the 3rd and 4th Fighter Squadrons, as well as some enlisted members of their engineering sections, were air-transported to Nadzab, New Guinea, where they received the group's new P-51 aircraft.

The separated squadrons flew patrol missions in New Guinea until joining the group on Leyte in January 1945. Began combat in the Philippines by flying bombing and strafing missions against airdromes on Mindanao. Later, on Luzon, the fighters continued bombing and strafing missions. In addition, the group provided air support to ground forces, flew fighter sweeps to Formosa, and escorted heavy bombers on bombing missions to Formosa and the China coast. The air echelon of the 318th Troop Carrier Squadron flew their C-47s across the Pacific, arriving at Nadzab, New Guinea, in late October 1944. The squadron carried cargo and passengers and air-evacuated wounded soldiers to Australia until it moved to Leyte in mid-January 1945. While on Luzon, this squadron also para-dropped supplies to ground forces. The liaison squadrons received their L-5s in late January 1945, and thereafter evacuated wounded from advanced points, flew courier, search and rescue, and reconnaissance missions, spotted for signal aircraft warning battalions, and dropped supplies to allied and guerrilla forces.

In April 1945, the group, less the liaison squadrons, moved from Mandaldan, in Lingayen Gulf, to Laoag, in northwest Luzon, in recently captured territory 150 miles behind enemy lines. The group operated the base and the 318th Troop Carrier Squadron provided most of the resupply. The group set up air-ground support stations that directed aircraft to targets and tactical radio ground stations situated with U.S. and guerrilla ground forces. In June 1945 Laoag became the staging field for flights to Okinawa.

In August 1945, the group moved to Ie Shima, in the Ryukyus, from where the fighter squadrons flew surveillance missions over Japan. The 318 TCS participated in the evacuation of allied prisoners of war from Japan. By the end of October 1945, the group moved to Chitose Air Base, Japan. By February 1946 the squadrons were reduced to paper strength and the group inactivated the next month.

Vietnam War

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Beginning in February 1967, the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing trained to support a special electronic reconnaissance program utilizing 30 Lockheed EC-121R Batcat aircraft, with a C-121G used for pilot and flight engineer training. Moved to Thailand in increments beginning mid-September 1967 and began day and night unarmed reconnaissance missions over Southeast Asia on 25 November 1967. A wing detachment at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, performed combat evaluation of YQU-22A aircraft and associated equipment, December 1968 – August 1969. From July to early September 1970 the wing provided combat evaluation of the QU-22B aircraft and on 1 October 1970 the QU-22Bs were placed in full operation, reducing the need for EC-121s.

Strength of the wing was reduced in both personnel and equipment, and in mid-December 1970 the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing inactivated. One reconnaissance squadron, the 553rd Reconnaissance Squadron, was reassigned to the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing and stayed at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base. The 554th Reconnaissance squadron was inactivated with that squadron number then assigned to what was Detachment 1 at Nakon Phanom RTAFB. The last 553rd Reconnaissance EC-121R mission occurred on 6 December 1971.

Special operations in the Pacific

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The 353rd Special Operations Wing was activated on 6 April 1989 in the Philippines to train for unconventional warfare and special operations activities in the Pacific area of operations. Maintained capabilities by participating in joint/combined and other theater exercises and training opportunities. Also maintained helicopter air refueling operations and supported humanitarian and disaster relief operations, as well as performed some search and rescue and aeromedical evacuation missions.

Following the destruction of Clark Air Base during the volcanic eruptions of Mount Pinatubo in June 1991, the group temporarily operated from bases on Okinawa, then officially relocated there in February 1992, with one squadron moving forward to South Korea.

Redesignated as the 353rd Special Operations Group on 1 December 1992,[11] but continued operations as before. The group consisted of the 1st, 17th and 31st Special Operations Squadrons together with 353rd Special Operations Maintenance Squadron and 353rd Special Operations Support Squadron.[11]

The 320th Special Tactics Squadron was assigned to the group on 1 January 1993.[11]

In February 1996 developed Taegu Air Base in South Korea as a special operations training base. Gained a weather flight in April 1996 and began providing weather support for U.S. Army Special Forces at Torii Station, Japan.

From December 1996 periodically deployed aircraft and personnel to Italy to support NATO operations in the Balkans and to Southwest Asia to support allied operations against Iraq.

On 31 August 2001, the 31st Special Operations Squadron was inactivated.[11][12]

Throughout its history, the unit has been extremely active in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. In 2005, the unit supported Operation UNIFIED ASSISTANCE, the relief effort from the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. In 2011, the unit supported Operation TOMODACHI, the relief effort from the great East Japan earthquake and tsunami of 2011. In 2013, the unit supported Operation Damayan, the relief effort from Super Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. In 2018, the unit assisted with the Thai cave rescue.

Lineage

[edit]
3rd Air Commando Group
  • Established as the 3rd Air Commando Group on 25 April 1944
Activated on 1 May 1944
Inactivated on 25 March 1946
Disestablished on 8 October 1948
  • Reestablished and consolidated with the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing as the 353rd Reconnaissance Wing on 31 July 1985[2]
553rd Reconnaissance Wing
  • Established as the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing on 9 February 1967 (not organized)
Organized on 25 February 1967
Inactivated on 15 December 1970
  • Consolidated with the 3rd Air Commando Group as the 353rd Reconnaissance Wing on 31 July 1985
353rd Special Operations Wing
  • Redesignated 353rd Special Operations Wing on 21 March 1989
Activated on 6 April 1989
Redesignated 353rd Special Operations Group on 1 December 1992
Redesignated 353rd Special Operations Wing on 14 July 2021[2]

Assignments

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Components

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World War II
  • 3rd Fighter Squadron (Commando): 1 May 1944 – 25 March 1946 (air echelon detached 7 November 1944 – 7 January 1945).
  • 4th Fighter Squadron (Commando): 1 May 1944 – 25 March 1946 (ground echelon detached 7 November 1944 – 5 January 1945; air echelon detached 7 November 1944 – 16 January 1945).
  • 157th Liaison Squadron: 1 May 1944 – 10 November 1945 (detached 1 May – c. 18 August 1944 and 3 May – 10 November 1945).
  • 159th Liaison Squadron: 1 May 1944 – 15 December 1945 (detached 1 May – c. 18 August 1944 and 3 May – 15 December 1945).
  • 160th Liaison Squadron: 1 May 1944 – 15 December 1945 (detached 1 May – c. 18 August 1944 and 3 May – 15 December 1945).
  • 318th Troop Carrier Squadron: 1 May 1944 – 25 March 1946 (detached 1 May – 14 August 1944; ground echelon detached 12 September – 1 November 1944; air echelon detached 12 September 1944 – c. 18 February 1945)
Vietnam War
Post consolidation
  • 1st Special Operations Squadron: 6 April 1989 – present
  • 17th Special Operations Squadron: 1 August 1989 – 6 July 2021
  • 21st Special Operations Squadron: 1 July 2019 – present[13]
  • 31st Special Operations Squadron: 6 April 1989 – 31 August 2001
  • 320th Special Tactics Squadron: 1 January 1993 – present
  • 353rd Special Operations Maintenance Squadron (later 353rd Maintenance Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance Squadron): 1 October 1989 – present[14]
  • 353rd Special Operations Support Squadron (later 353rd Operations Support Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Support Squadron): 1 October 1992 – present[15]
  • 353rd Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron: unknown – present
  • 753rd Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron: 1 July 2019 – present[13]

Stations

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Aircraft

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Awards

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Award streamer Award Dates Notes
Air Force Meritorious Unit Award 1 October 2010 – 30 September 2012 353rd Special Operations Group[16]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with "V" Device 1 April 1967 – 31 May 1968 553rd Reconnaissance Wing[2]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with "V" Device 1 July 1968 – 15 April 1969 553rd Reconnaissance Wing[2]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with "V" Device 2 September 2004 – 1 September 2006 353rd Special Operations Group[2]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with "V" Device 1 October 2006 – 30 September 2008 353rd Special Operations Group[2]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award 6 April 1989 – 5 April 1991 353rd Special Operations Wing[2]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award 1 June 1993 – 31 May 1995 353rd Special Operations Group[2]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award 1 September 1995 – 31 August 1997 353rd Special Operations Group[2]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award 16 October 1998 – 31 May 2000 353rd Special Operations Group[2]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award 13 October 2000 – 1 September 2002 353rd Special Operations Group[2]
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award 2 September 2002 – 1 September 2004 353rd Special Operations Group[2]
Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation 17 October 1944 – 4 July 1945 3rd Air Commando Group[2]
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm 1 April 1967 – 15 December 1970 553rd Reconnaissance Wing[2]
Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation 31 January 2002 – 31 July 2002 353rd Special Operations Group[2]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

353rd Special Operations Wing

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from Grokipedia
The 353rd Special Operations Wing (353rd SOW) is the Air Force's sole unit in the Pacific theater, headquartered at , Okinawa, , and comprising approximately 1,000 Airmen who plan and execute infiltration, exfiltration, resupply, and support missions for special operations forces using advanced aircraft and tactics. The wing's primary mission is to develop and employ Air Commandos to ensure a through competition, crisis response, and contingency operations, with a vision of delivering full-spectrum advantage to the joint force. It operates under the operational control of the and focuses on clandestine air refueling, long-range insertions, and real-time threat support to enable in austere or hostile environments. Organizationally, the 353rd SOW includes the 1st Special Operations Squadron, which employs the MC-130J Commando II for infiltration, exfiltration, resupply, and aerial refueling of special operations forces; the 21st Special Operations Squadron, operating the CV-22B Osprey tiltrotor for extended-range special operations; and the 320th Special Tactics Squadron, providing combat controllers, pararescuemen, special reconnaissance operators, and survival, evasion, resistance, and escape specialists for rapid deployment into contested areas. Support elements encompass the 1st Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron for fixed-wing logistics, the 21st Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron for Osprey upkeep, and Detachment 1 of the 43rd Intelligence Squadron for situational awareness and threat warnings. Historically, the wing traces its lineage to the World War II-era 3rd Air Commando Group and the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing, with activation as the 353rd SOW on April 6, 1989, at , , to provide capabilities in the region. It was redesignated as the 353rd Special Operations Group on December 1, 1992, following the closure of Clark AB, before reverting to wing status on July 14, 2021, to reflect its expanded aviation-focused role amid evolving security demands.

Overview

Mission and Role

The 353rd Special Operations Wing (353rd SOW) serves as the primary U.S. aviation unit in the region, functioning as the air component to (SOCPAC). As the only such unit stationed in the Pacific, it integrates seamlessly within U.S. (AFSOC) to provide specialized air support to joint and allied special operations forces. Its core mission is to develop and employ Air Commandos for competition, crisis response, and contingencies, ensuring a through , , and humanitarian assistance. The wing's strategic role emphasizes the projection of in contested environments, and executing operations that enhance regional stability and deterrence. Key capabilities include clandestine infiltration and exfiltration of personnel, precision strikes, resupply missions, , and direct support to special tactics forces using advanced tactics and techniques. These efforts are bolstered by joint and combined exercises that maintain readiness for disaster relief and other contingency operations in the Pacific theater. Guided by the vision of "Empowered Air Commandos delivering full-spectrum advantage for the combined joint force," the 353rd SOW focuses on fostering adaptable, high-impact to support broader U.S. objectives in the region. This mission traces its roots to air commando operations but has evolved to address modern challenges.

Current Status and Location

The 353rd Special Operations Wing is headquartered at , Okinawa, , and operates under the (AFSOC) while aligning with (PACAF) to support U.S. Command objectives. As the only AFSOC unit in the Pacific theater, it serves as the Air Force component to (SOCPAC). The wing consists of approximately 1,000 Airmen, encompassing aircrews, aircraft maintainers, and special tactics personnel who enable special operations missions across the region. Command of the wing transferred to Colonel Stewart J. Parker during a change of command ceremony on June 18, 2025, succeeding Colonel Shawn Young. Parker, who oversees the wing's strategic execution, emphasized enhanced crisis response capabilities in his initial remarks. In recent operations, the wing participated in from July 22 to August 4, 2023, at Base Richmond, , where it supported multinational integration, including the transport of U.S. Army HIMARS systems. More recently, Airmen conducted Exercise Viking Jet 25-3 on August 12, 2025, at U.S. Marine Corps Training Facility Ie Shima, Okinawa, to refine commando insertion and extraction skills in austere environments. Additionally, in July 2025, the wing responded to Typhoon Co-May and monsoon flooding in the , deploying CV-22 tiltrotors within six hours to deliver family food packs and medical supplies to affected areas, in coordination with Philippine forces and U.S. Marine Corps assets. The wing achieved a significant milestone on July 14, 2021, when it was redesignated from the 353rd Special Operations Group to full wing status, reflecting its expanded operational scope and administrative structure under AFSOC. In innovation efforts, the 353rd SOW received funding from the 2025 Thunder Dome competition for two training-focused projects, aimed at improving readiness. The wing participated in the Thunder Dome 2026 innovation competition, with finalist presentations held on November 6, 2025, to prototype advanced solutions for Pacific theater challenges.

Organization

Component Units

The 353rd Special Operations Wing's component units consist of specialized flying and tactics squadrons that provide core combat capabilities for in the region, supporting the wing's overall mission as the focal point for aviation activities throughout the Pacific. These units focus on infiltration, exfiltration, resupply, and integrated air-ground operations in austere environments, enabling rapid response to contingencies. The 1st Special Operations Squadron operates MC-130J Commando II aircraft to conduct clandestine, low-level infiltration, exfiltration, resupply, and aerial refueling missions for special operations forces in politically sensitive or hostile territories. These operations often involve airdrops or airland deliveries in austere environments, supporting unconventional warfare and personnel recovery efforts tailored to Pacific theater requirements. The flies CV-22B Osprey aircraft to execute long-range infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply missions, leveraging the platform's helicopter and capabilities for enhanced speed and range in support of forces. Activated in 2019 at , , the squadron emphasizes rapid global response to enable special operations insertions and extractions across the . The 320th Special Tactics Squadron provides elite ground operators, including combat controllers, pararescuemen, and special reconnaissance personnel, who infiltrate austere or hostile areas to enable airpower success in contingency operations. These specialists conduct airfield seizure, personnel recovery, and air-ground integration tasks, such as establishing assault zones, directing close air support, and performing global access, precision strike, and recovery missions to strengthen regional security partnerships. Collectively, these units execute aviation and ground support functions designed for Pacific contingencies, integrating air and tactical elements to project power and respond to dynamic threats.

Support Elements

The support elements of the 353rd Special Operations Wing are essential for maintaining operational readiness, providing maintenance, logistics, and intelligence capabilities that underpin the wing's special operations missions in the region. The 1st Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron delivers consolidated maintenance, including support such as , readiness spares packages, scheduling, and analysis, for the wing's , including the MC-130J Commando II operated by the . This squadron ensures the MC-130J fleet remains mission-capable through back-shop support and rapid repair capabilities, enabling sustained operations in austere environments. The 21st Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron specializes in rotary-wing and maintenance for the , focusing on vertical takeoff, hover, and high-speed capabilities to support long-range infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply missions. By managing mission modifications and system integrations, the squadron maintains 24/7 aircraft availability for the 21st Squadron's tiltrotor operations across the Pacific theater. Detachment 1 of the 43rd Intelligence Squadron provides real-time threat intelligence, situational awareness, and targeting support by serving as a conduit between the Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Agency and the 353rd Special Operations Wing. This detachment delivers dedicated threat warnings and maintains intelligence systems, enhancing mission planning and execution for forward-deployed special operations forces. Collectively, these support elements integrate with operational units to sustain full-spectrum readiness, ensuring and assets are available around the clock in dynamic Pacific environments.

History

World War II Origins

The 3rd Air Commando Group was established on 25 April 1944 and activated on 1 May 1944 at Drew Field, Florida, as part of the U.S. Army Air Forces' effort to create specialized units for independent operations behind enemy lines in the Pacific theater. Assigned to the , the group trained at Lakeland Army Airfield, Florida, from May to October 1944, focusing on skills such as establishing and defending austere airstrips, conducting rear-area attacks, providing , and performing casualty evacuations to enable self-sustaining missions in contested environments. Composed of fighter, bomber, transport, and liaison squadrons, it employed a mix of including Curtiss P-40 Warhawks and North American P-51 Mustangs for fighters, North American B-25 Mitchells for bombing, Douglas C-47 Skytrains for transport, and gliders for assaults, along with Stinson L-5 Sentinels for liaison duties. In late 1944, the group deployed to the , arriving at on 1 to support Allied invasions amid the island-hopping campaign against Japanese forces. It initiated combat operations by flying bombing and strafing missions against Japanese airdromes on , disrupting enemy air capabilities and logistics in preparation for ground advances. As operations shifted to in early 1945, the group provided extensive to U.S. and Filipino ground forces, using its fighters and bombers to target enemy positions while transports dropped paratroopers, towed gliders for troop insertions, and delivered critical resupply of ammunition and provisions to isolated units. The unit also conducted fighter sweeps over Formosa () and escorted B-25 bombing missions to the coast, showcasing early tactics like glider-borne assaults and airdrop resupplies that emphasized rapid, in rugged terrain. By April 1945, the group relocated to on to intensify air-ground coordination during the Luzon campaign, later staging missions to Okinawa in June. Following Japan's surrender on 2 (V-J Day), it moved to Ie Shima in August for surveillance flights over and assisted in evacuating Allied prisoners of war. The group transferred to Chitose, , in October 1945, where it was inactivated on 25 March 1946 as postwar demobilization progressed. These WWII experiences pioneered tactics that influenced the development of modern missions.

Vietnam War Operations

The 553rd Reconnaissance Wing, a predecessor unit to the 353rd Special Operations Wing, was established on 9 February 1967 and activated on 25 February 1967 at Otis Air Force Base, , to conduct specialized electronic missions in support of U.S. operations during the . The wing trained with EC-121G and EC-121R aircraft for a classified electronic intelligence (ELINT) program focused on monitoring enemy movements along infiltration routes. On 31 October 1967, the wing deployed to Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, where it operated under the to provide real-time surveillance and intelligence collection over , , and . The wing's primary mission involved ELINT operations as part of , an anti-infiltration effort targeting the . Using modified Lockheed EC-121R "Bat Cat" aircraft, equipped with advanced sensors and communication relays, crews of up to 30 personnel orbited high above neutral to detect and relay signals from air-dropped acoustic and seismic sensors, enabling U.S. and allied forces to interdict enemy supply convoys. These missions included night operations to locate and identify North Vietnamese radar and (SAM) sites, providing critical early warning and targeting data to strike aircraft while minimizing exposure to enemy defenses. In late 1970, the wing transitioned to testing and operating unmanned QU-22B "" platforms, smaller Beechcraft-derived drones that extended sensor coverage with reduced risk to personnel. Operating in highly contested airspace presented significant challenges, including intense anti-aircraft threats and mechanical vulnerabilities. The large EC-121R formations were vulnerable to SAMs and fighters, resulting in at least one major loss when an EC-121R crashed shortly after takeoff from on April 25, 1969, killing 18 crew members due to a possible or strike. Overall, the wing suffered 25 fatalities across its operations, underscoring the risks of prolonged loiter times in hostile environments. Crews faced additional hazards from engine shutdowns during sensor relay phases and the psychological strain of extended missions in blackout conditions. As U.S. forces began drawdowns in , the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing was inactivated on December 15, 1970, at , with its assets and missions largely absorbed by smaller units like the 554th Reconnaissance Squadron. This inactivation marked the end of the wing's Vietnam-era role, though its electronic warfare expertise later contributed to the lineage of units, echoing the innovative heritage of air commandos.

Post-Vietnam Reorganization

Following its inactivation on 15 December 1970 as part of broader U.S. Air Force restructuring after the Vietnam War, the 353rd's units remained dormant through the 1970s and 1980s, reflecting the service's shift toward conventional forces and reduced emphasis on specialized reconnaissance roles amid Cold War priorities. The wing was redesignated the 353rd Special Operations Wing on 21 March 1989 and activated on 6 April 1989 at Clark Air Base in the Philippines, tasked with training for unconventional warfare and special operations activities tailored to Pacific theater demands. This reactivation drew on the unit's Vietnam-era legacy in electronic warfare to inform its new focus on infiltration, resupply, and exfiltration missions supporting joint special operations. In its initial years, the wing prepared for potential in Pacific hotspots, conducting training exercises to enhance readiness for regional contingencies while operating MC-130 aircraft for low-level insertions and extractions. These efforts emphasized multi-role capabilities, marking a transition from the unit's prior emphasis to integrated special operations support. The eruption of in 1991 and subsequent Philippine Senate rejection of U.S. base lease extensions led to Clark Air Base's closure by November 1991, prompting base realignments that relocated operations to sites including Okinawa. Amid post-Cold War drawdowns, the wing was redesignated the 353rd Special Operations Group on 1 December 1992 to align with composite wing reforms, streamlining its structure for continued Pacific without altering core missions.

Pacific Special Operations Era

Following the , which devastated in the , the 353rd Special Operations Wing relocated to , , on February 5, 1992, establishing a permanent forward presence in the Pacific theater. This move, prompted by the base's closure and the need for operational continuity, positioned the unit as the U.S. Air Force's primary aviation hub in the region, building on post-Vietnam training foundations to support rapid response capabilities. In December 1992, amid Air Force-wide reorganization to streamline headquarters, the wing was redesignated as the 353rd Special Operations Group, operating under while maintaining its core infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply missions. The unit's operational scope expanded through integration of advanced platforms, including the CV-22 Osprey and MC-130J Commando II, which enhanced long-range insertion and in contested environments across the Pacific. These aircraft supported major contingencies in , such as humanitarian airlifts during in 2013 under Operation Damayan, where nearly 150 personnel deployed to deliver aid and conduct search-and-rescue. The group also contributed to broader efforts, including deployments for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, as well as counter-ISIS operations under , providing aviation and special tactics support from its Pacific base. Pacific exercises, like the 2004 relief in with MC-130s for , further honed interoperability with regional partners. On July 14, 2021, the 353rd Special Operations Group was redesignated back to wing status, reflecting its grown responsibilities and alignment with AFSOC's emphasis on integrated in the . Recent developments underscore a sharpened focus on competition, with the wing leading joint exercises such as Teck Jet in 2017—a combined exchange training with the to boost tactical —and bilateral drills like Keen Sword. In 2025, personnel participated in Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC), the largest multinational air exercise in the region, simulating high-end conflict scenarios to deter aggression. Humanitarian missions remain central, exemplified by rapid 2025 deployments of CV-22s and MC-130Js to the for and , delivering supplies and enabling evacuations alongside local forces. In November 2025, the wing supported foreign disaster relief operations in the following Super Fung-Wong and successive storms, coordinating with Philippine forces to deliver food packs, hygiene kits, and medical assistance using aircraft for airlifts.

Lineage and Honors

Lineage and Designations

The 353rd Special Operations Wing traces its lineage to the 3d Air Commando Group, which was established on 25 April 1944 and activated on 1 May 1944 to conduct special operations in the Pacific Theater during World War II. This group was inactivated on 25 March 1946 and disestablished on 8 October 1948. On 31 July 1985, the lineage of the 3d Air Commando Group was reestablished and consolidated with that of the 553d Reconnaissance Wing, a Vietnam War-era unit established on 9 February 1967, activated on 25 February 1967, and inactivated on 15 December 1970, which specialized in missions. The consolidated unit was redesignated as the 353d Reconnaissance Wing on the same date. Further redesignated as the 353d on 21 March 1989, the unit was activated on 6 April 1989 under . It was redesignated as the 353d Special Operations Group on 1 December 1992 to reflect a more focused operational structure, before reverting to wing status on 14 July 2021 to encompass expanded special operations capabilities across the Pacific. The unit's nickname, "Batcats," originates from the 553d Reconnaissance Wing's nocturnal radar missions during the , evoking the imagery of bats navigating in darkness, and has been carried forward to honor the combined lineage's emphasis on night and . The official emblem, originally designed by renowned artist for the 553d Reconnaissance Wing and approved by the on 19 June 1967, was modified in 1995 under guidelines but reinstated in its original form to preserve historical ties to themes. Lineage records for the 353d Special Operations Wing are maintained and certified by the Air Force Historical Research Agency at , , ensuring accurate documentation of its organizational evolution.

Assignments and Stations

During , the 3rd Air Commando Group was initially assigned to III Fighter Command upon activation on 1 May 1944, before transferring to around 1 December 1944 and then to V Fighter Command on 13 December 1944, remaining under the latter until inactivation on 25 March 1946. Its stations began at Drew Field, , followed by Lakeland Army Airfield, , until October 1944, with elements of its squadrons deploying to Nadzab, , in late October 1944 for patrol missions before the main group moved to Leyte in the on 1 December 1944. Subsequent stations included Mangaldan on around 26 January 1945, Laoag on from 19 April 1945, Ie Shima around 8 August 1945, and finally Chitose, , from around 27 October 1945 until inactivation. As the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing during the Vietnam War era, the unit was assigned to Air Defense Command on 9 February 1967, then to upon organization on 25 February 1967, and to Thirteenth Air Force on 31 October 1967, operating under the control of until inactivation on 15 December 1970. Its primary stations were Otis Air Force Base, , from 25 February to October 1967, and Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, from 31 October 1967 to 15 December 1970, with temporary operations from , Thailand, between 30 January and 28 February 1969. Following consolidation and redesignation as the 353rd Special Operations Wing on 21 March 1989 and activation on 6 April 1989, the wing was assigned to Twenty-Third Air Force (later ) and initially stationed at , , until early 1992, with temporary operations from Okinawa beginning in July 1991. It relocated to , , on 5 February 1992, where it remains headquartered as the U.S. Air Force's only special operations unit in the Pacific theater. The wing operates under , with operational control assigned to and alignment to the region, a structure reinforced by its redesignation back to wing status on 14 July 2021.

Aircraft and Equipment

The 353rd Special Operations Wing's aircraft and equipment have evolved significantly since its origins as the 3rd Air Commando Group during , reflecting shifts from conventional fighter and transport roles to specialized platforms for , reconnaissance, and support. During , the wing operated a diverse inventory including P-40 Warhawk fighters for , F-6 Mustang reconnaissance variants, P-51 Mustang fighters, C-47 Skytrain transports for resupply and troop movement, CG-4 Waco gliders for airborne insertions, L-5 Sentinel liaison aircraft, and UC-64 Norseman utility planes, enabling rapid airstrip construction and guerrilla support in the Pacific Theater. In the Vietnam War era, following its redesignation and consolidation with elements of the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing, the unit focused on electronic reconnaissance with EC-121G and EC-121R College Eye aircraft for airborne radar and command post functions, supplemented by YQU-22A Pave Eagle and QU-22B drones for collection. Post-Vietnam reorganization in the 1970s and 1980s saw transitions to rotary- and fixed-wing assets tailored for , including MC-130E Combat Talon I and MC-130H Combat Talon II for infiltration and exfiltration, HC-130P/N Combat King for , C-130E transports, and CH/HH-53 Super Jolly Green Giant and MH-53 Pave Low helicopters for personnel recovery and special tactics insertion. Since the , the wing has shifted to advanced, stealthy, multi-mission platforms optimized for Pacific theater , phasing out older models like the MC-130P Combat Shadow in 2015 and the MC-130H Combat Talon II in 2019 in favor of low-observable designs with enhanced and capabilities. The current inventory emphasizes aviation without fighter aircraft, centering on the MC-130J Commando II for clandestine infiltration, precision aerial refueling of forces, and resupply in contested environments, and the CV-22B for long-range, vertical takeoff insertion of special tactics teams. Complementing these aircraft, the wing's special tactics elements, including the , employ combat control kits with advanced radios, GPS navigation systems, and laser designators for , alongside pararescue equipment such as medical trauma kits, oxygen systems, and hoist rescue gear for personnel recovery in austere conditions.

Awards and Recognitions

The 353rd Special Operations Wing and its predecessor units have earned numerous unit awards and campaign credits for exemplary service across multiple conflicts and operations. These honors reflect the wing's contributions to in the Pacific theater and beyond, with citations emphasizing collective achievements rather than individual actions. During , the wing's forebears received the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation for operations supporting the liberation of , as part of broader campaigns including , Western Pacific, Air Offensive Japan, China Defensive, and China Offensive. These campaign credits qualify personnel for the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with corresponding battle stars. In the Vietnam War era, the unit was awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat "V" Device for the periods from 1 April 1967 to 31 May 1968 and from 1 July 1968 to 15 April 1969, recognizing sustained combat operations. Additionally, it earned the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm for service from 1 April 1967 to 15 December 1970. Campaign participation encompassed multiple streams of the , such as Vietnam Air Offensive Phase II, Phase III, Vietnam Air/Ground, Phase IV, TET 69/Counteroffensive, Vietnam Summer-Fall 1969, Vietnam Winter-Spring 1970, Sanctuary Counteroffensive, Southwest Monsoon, and Commando Hunt V. Following its reorganization in 1989, the wing has received several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for periods including 6 April 1989 to 5 April 1991, 1 June 1993 to 31 May 1995, 1 September 1995 to 31 August 1997, 16 October 1998 to 31 May 2000, 13 October 2000 to 1 September 2002, 2 September 2002 to 1 September 2004, 1 October 2008 to 30 September 2010, and others through the early 2000s, often tied to Pacific deployments and special operations support. It also garnered Air Force Meritorious Unit Awards for 1 October 2010 to 30 September 2012 and 1 October 2012 to 30 September 2014, highlighting excellence in maintenance of readiness and mission execution. The WWII-era Philippine Presidential Unit Citation continues to be authorized for wear by wing personnel as a historical honor. No individual personnel awards are associated with these unit-level recognitions.

References

  1. https://www.353sow.af.mil/About-Us/
  2. https://www.353sow.af.mil/About-Us/Units/
  3. https://www.afsoc.af.mil/Units/
  4. https://www.afsoc.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/162540/air-force-special-operations-command/
  5. https://www.dafhistory.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/2810270/353-special-operations-wing-afsoc/
  6. https://www.key.aero/article/us-special-operations-command-overview
  7. https://www.353sow.af.mil/About-Us/Bio-Display/Article/4222689/stewart-j-parker/
  8. https://okinawa.stripes.com/spotlight/353-sow-conducts-change-of-command-ceremony.html
  9. https://sof.news/update/20250630/
  10. https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/353-SOW
  11. https://www.netc.navy.mil/Warrior-Toughness/?dvpTag=353rd
  12. https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Stories/Article/4261560/airmen-rapidly-deploy-to-support-philippine-disaster-relief-efforts/
  13. https://www.dvidshub.net/image/9228985/ospreys-transit-philippines-provide-urgent-lifesaving-support-following-catastrophic-storms
  14. https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4285876/thunder-dome-looking-back-powering-forward-with-afsoc-innovation/
  15. https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4211453/submissions-open-for-thunder-dome-2026-innovation-competition/
  16. https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Stories/Article/1893467/air-force-special-operations-command-stands-up-cv-22-squadron-in-japan/
  17. https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Stories/Article/1386662/320th-sts-supports-a-rescue-in-nepal/
  18. https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Article/2036036/team-kadena-conducts-exercise-gryphon-pacific/
  19. https://www.dafhistory.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/432584/353-special-operations-group-afsoc
  20. https://www.armyaircorpsmuseum.org/3rd_Air_Commando_Group.cfm
  21. https://www.afsoc.af.mil/About-Us/AFSOC-Heritage/
  22. https://www.353sow.af.mil/Portals/79/Batcats_Vampires_PA.docx
  23. https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/196052/beech-qu-22b/
  24. https://www.westin553.net/batcat17.htm
  25. https://www.airuniversity.af.edu/Portals/10/AUPress/Books/B_0083_THIGPEN_PRAETORIAN_STARSHIP.pdf
  26. https://www.afsoc.af.mil/Portals/86/documents/history/AFD-051228-013.pdf
  27. https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Stories/Article/503088/353rd-sog-supports-operations-damayan/
  28. https://www.pacom.mil/Media/News/News-Article-View/Article/1230838/353rd-special-operations-group-and-japan-air-self-defense-force-complete-exerci/
  29. https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4240598/us-allies-launch-largest-pacific-air-exercise-with-reforpac-2025/
  30. https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4261940/airmen-rapidly-deploy-to-support-philippine-disaster-relief-efforts/
  31. https://ph.usembassy.gov/united-states-provides-emergency-disaster-assistance-for-victims-of-super-typhoon-fung-wong-uwan-and-successive-disasters-in-the-philippines/
  32. https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Stories/Article/459779/heraldrys-return-honors-proud-lineage-famous-artist/
  33. https://usafunithistory.com/PDF/0300/353%20SPECIAL%20OPERATIONS%20GP.pdf
  34. https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Stories/Article/587353/last-pacific-mc-130p-combat-shadows-retire/
  35. https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Stories/Article/2043762/the-353rd-sog-bids-farewell-to-the-combat-talon-ii/
  36. https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4261635/airmen-rapidly-deploy-to-support-philippine-disaster-relief-efforts/
  37. https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Stories/Article/1422094/tactical-vehicle-training-saves-lives/
  38. https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8810963/353-sow-refines-capabilities-viking-jet-25-1
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