The 122nd Fighter Wing (122 FW) is a unit of the Indiana Air National Guard, stationed at Fort Wayne International Airport, Indiana. As a federally recognized Air National Guard fighter unit, it is operationally gained by Air Combat Command (ACC) of the United States Air Force when activated for federal service.
Mission
The wing’s primary mission is to provide combat‑ready air superiority and close‑air‑support capability in support of U.S. national defense objectives. It also performs air defense of the continental United States, participates in training exercises, and provides support to civil authorities during emergencies and natural disasters.
Organizational Structure
- 122nd Operations Group – conducts flight operations, training, and weapons employment.
- 122nd Maintenance Group – responsible for aircraft, engine, and avionics maintenance.
- 122nd Mission Support Group – provides security, civil engineering, logistics, communications, and personnel services.
- 122nd Medical Group – delivers medical and dental services to wing personnel.
Aircraft
Since 1998 the wing has operated the General Dynamics F‑16 Fighting Falcon. Current inventory consists primarily of F‑16C/D Block 30/40 aircraft, equipped for air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground missions. Earlier aircraft operated by the unit include:
- Republic F‑84 Thunderjet (1940s–1950s)
- North American F‑86 Sabre (1950s)
- Republic F‑100 Super Sabre (1960s)
- LTV A‑7D Corsair II (1970s–1990s)
History
- World War II – The unit originated as the 358th Fighter Group, activated in 1943, and served in the European Theater with P‑51 Mustangs.
- Post‑war – Reconstituted in 1946 as the 122nd Fighter Group, Indiana National Guard, and assigned to Air Defense Command, operating F‑51 Mustangs for continental air defense.
- Cold War – Transitioned to jet aircraft (F‑84, F‑86) and later to the F‑100 and A‑7D, maintaining an air‑defense role under various major commands.
- 1990s Reorganization – In 1995 the group was redesignated the 122nd Fighter Wing as part of the Air Force’s “objective wing” structure. The wing’s F‑16s have supported Operation Southern Watch, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom through deployments to the Middle East and other theaters.
Deployments and Operations
Units of the 122nd Fighter Wing have repeatedly deployed elements to forward operating bases in Southwest Asia, Europe, and the Pacific, providing combat air patrol, close‑air support, and air‑interdiction. The wing also contributes personnel and aircraft to the Air Expeditionary Force (AEF) model, integrating with active‑duty forces for contingency operations.
State Mission
When not under federal orders, the wing assists the State of Indiana with disaster relief, search‑and‑rescue, and homeland‑security missions, cooperating with the Indiana Department of Emergency Management and other civil agencies.
Recognition
The 122nd Fighter Wing has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and commendations for its operational excellence, training achievements, and community involvement.
Location
Fort Wayne International Airport (KFWA) serves as the wing’s base of operations, providing facilities for flight lines, maintenance, and support functions.
Affiliations
- Gained by Air Combat Command (ACC) for federal missions.
- Part of the Indiana Air National Guard, under the command of the Indiana Adjutant General when activated for state duty.
Current Status
As of the latest publicly available information (2024), the 122nd Fighter Wing continues to maintain a full complement of F‑16 aircraft and associated personnel, actively participating in both federal and state missions while sustaining readiness through regular training cycles and deployments.
