United States Air Force

The United States Air Force (USAF) is the aerial and space warfare branch of the United States Armed Forces. Established as a separate service on September 18, 1947, it is tasked with ensuring air and space superiority, global strike capabilities, intelligence collection, and rapid mobility. It is among the most technologically advanced air forces in the world.

History

The Air Force traces its lineage to the U.S. Army Signal Corps Aeronautical Division (1907). It evolved into the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, conducting strategic bombing and supporting ground and naval operations. After the war, the National Security Act of 1947 established the USAF as an independent branch.

During the Cold War, the Air Force became a key component of nuclear deterrence and developed jet aircraft, intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), and space surveillance capabilities. Since then, it has participated in Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, the Balkans, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

Mission

The Air Force’s mission is “to fly, fight, and win – airpower anytime, anywhere.”

Its functions include:

Air and space superiority.

Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).

Rapid global mobility.

Precision strike and global attack.

Nuclear deterrence.

Organization

The Air Force is divided into:

Major Commands (MAJCOMs) – such as Air Combat Command, Air Mobility Command, and Air Force Space Command (functions later transferred to the United States Space Force).

Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command.

Operational wings, groups, and squadrons.