79th Tactical Fighter Squadron

“Tigers” – Strength, Speed, and Precision at RAF Upper Heyford

Strength, Speed, and Precision at RAF Upper Heyford

The 79th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) — known as the “Tigers” — was one of the proudest and most enduring units stationed at RAF Upper Heyford. As part of the 20th Tactical Fighter Wing (20th TFW), the 79th played a crucial role in defending Western Europe during the Cold War, flying advanced strike aircraft capable of delivering power and precision when it mattered most.

Origins and Arrival

The 79th’s heritage stretches back to World War I, when the squadron was first activated as part of the United States Army Air Service. Over its distinguished history, the unit evolved through multiple theatres and aircraft, earning a reputation for discipline and tactical excellence.

In 1970, the 79th arrived at RAF Upper Heyford, joining sister squadrons — the 55th and 77th TFS — under the newly re-formed 20th Tactical Fighter Wing. Initially flying F-100D Super Sabres, the Tigers soon transitioned to the cutting-edge F-111E Aardvark, an aircraft that revolutionised low-level, all-weather strike capability.

The F-111E Era

The arrival of the General Dynamics F-111E Aardvark ushered in a new phase of operational strength for the 79th TFS. With variable-geometry wings, long-range capability, and precision-guided radar systems, the F-111E could deliver ordnance at supersonic speeds and extremely low altitudes — an essential asset for NATO’s deterrence mission.

Operating from Upper Heyford, the Tigers specialised in terrain-following, low-altitude strike missions, trained to fly undetected under enemy radar to reach strategic targets deep inside Eastern Europe. This made the squadron one of NATO’s most formidable deterrent forces during the height of the Cold War.

Training, Operations, and Readiness

The 79th maintained a constant state of readiness, participating in frequent NATO exercises, international deployments, and rapid alert drills. The squadron’s pilots and maintenance crews were known for their professionalism and precision — a reputation that defined the 20th TFW as a whole.

While primarily focused on deterrence and readiness, the Tigers also contributed to real-world missions. In 1986, aircraft from Upper Heyford supported operations during Operation El Dorado Canyon, the U.S. airstrike against Libya. Later, in the Gulf War (1990–1991), 79th TFS personnel and aircraft were deployed to Turkey and Saudi Arabia, conducting strike missions as part of Operation Desert Storm.

Drawdown and Legacy

As the Cold War drew to a close, changes in global defence strategy led to the gradual reduction of American forces in Europe. In 1993, the 79th Tactical Fighter Squadron was deactivated alongside the closure of RAF Upper Heyford, concluding more than two decades of dedicated service on British soil.

The Tigers’ legacy endures not only through their contributions to peace and deterrence but also through the Upper Heyford Heritage Centre, where their history is preserved through photographs, artefacts, and tours of original F-111E shelters and control facilities once used by the squadron.

Experience the Legacy of the Tigers

Visit the Upper Heyford Heritage Centre to discover the story of the 79th Tactical Fighter Squadron — the “Tigers” who helped define an era of strength, precision, and transatlantic cooperation.

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10am - 4:30pm
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 12 - 4:30pm
Sunday: 10am - 4:30pm