page_title: 18th Flight Test Squadron
section_title: Vietnam War
hierarchical_section_title: 18th Flight Test Squadron / History / Vietnam War
caption_attribution_description: English: AC-119 Español: AC-119
context_page_description: The 18th Flight Test Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Florida performs field tests of aircraft for Air Force Special Operations Command The squadron evaluates aircraft, equipment and tactics in realistic battlespace environments to provide decision makers accurate, timely and complete assessments of mission capability. From concept development to system fielding, the unit's mission improves the survivability and combat capability of special operations forces worldwide.
  The first predecessor of the squadron is the 18th Bombardment Squadron, which was activated in January 1941 as the United States expanded its military in preparation for World War II. Following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the squadron moved to the Pacific Northwest, conducting antisubmarine warfare patrols. In the summer of 1942, it became a Replacement Training Unit for heavy bomber crews. In late 1943, it began training for overseas deployment and entered combat in the European Theater of Operations in 1944, participating in the strategic bombing campaign against Germany. Following V-E Day, the squadron returned to the United States and was inactivated in August 1945.
context_section_description: The second predecessor of the squadron was activated as the 18th Special Operations Squadron on 25 January 1969 at Lockbourne Air Force Base, Ohio, and deployed to Phan Rang Air Base, South Vietnam, the 18th SOS flew the Fairchild AC-119K Stinger gunship. The squadron's primary mission was the interdiction of enemy supply lines, close air support, and air base defense. Following the transfer of the aircraft to the Republic of Vietnam Air Force, the 18th was inactivated 31 December 1972.
caption: AC-119 Stinger
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