The 71st Fighter Squadron is one of three fighter squadrons assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing. Its mission is to maintain a combat-ready force able to conduct air-superiority operations anywhere in the world for the United States and its allies.
In 1975, the 71st moved to its current home with the 1st Fighter Wing at Langley Air Force Base, Va., where it was equipped with the F-15 Eagle air superiority fighter in 1976.
The 71st garnered numerous awards in its distinguished career. The 71st Fighter Squadron won the prestigious Hughes Achievement Trophy in 1999, 1993 and 1969, awarded annually to the most outstanding air superiority unit in the Air Force. The 71st received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and the Presidential Unit Citation on four occasions each. McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Corporation recognized the 71st in July 1991, for achieving 110,000 flying hours without a serious mishap.
The 71st TFS deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield as part of the first U.S. Air Force contingent in Saudi Arabia. The squadron was integral in establishing allied air-superiority during the operation. More recently the squadron participated in Operation Southern Watch in the Persian Gulf Region. The unit was redesignated the 71st Fighter Squadron Sept. 1, 1991.
In a normal flying day, the 71st Fighter Squadron will launch approximately 25 sorties to fly training missions in air-to-air combat, aerial gunnery, and air defense intercepts.
MILITARY AIRCRAFT 
