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About the 103rd Airlift Wing


The 103rd Airlift Wing's Mission is to train, organize, and equip personnel to provide an operationally-ready component of the militia to:
  • Deploy and employ as directed in support of national objectives
  • Support the office of the governor and provide resources in emergencies
  • Participate proactively in programs benefiting the community and its members
The Connecticut's Air National Guard operates from the Bradley Air National Guard Base adjacent to Bradley International Airport and at an Air Station in Orange.

The two locations host units officially named the 103rd Airlift Wing and the 103rd Air Control Squadron, which are more commonly known as the "Flying Yankees" and "Yankee Watch."

The 103rd Air Control Squadron conducts a command and control mission from a hillside facility adjacent to Long Island Sound. Their responsibilities include real-time detection, identification and surveillance of air traffic for combat operations and homeland defense.

The 103rd Airlift Wing operates C-130H aircraft.

Connecticut based Airmen have served abroad and at home for decades and continue to support operations within the state and across the world.

Leadership

C-130 Hercules

The C-130 Hercules primarily performs the tactical portion of the airlift mission. The aircraft is capable of operating from rough, dirt strips and is the prime transport for air dropping troops and equipment into hostile areas. The C-130 operates throughout the U.S. Air Force, serving with Air Mobility Command, Air Force Special Operations Command, Air Combat Command, U.S. Air Forces in Europe, Pacific Air Forces, Air National Guard and the Air Force Reserve Command, fulfilling a wide range of operational missions in both peace and war situations. Read the full fact sheet.

ANG Federal Mission

The Air National Guard's federal mission is to maintain well-trained, well-equipped units available for prompt mobilization during war and provide assistance during national emergencies (such as natural disasters or civil disturbances). During peacetime, the combat-ready units and support units are assigned to most Air Force major commands to carry out missions compatible with training, mobilization readiness, humanitarian and contingency operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

ANG State Mission

When Air National Guard units are not mobilized or under federal control, they report to the governor of their respective state, territory (Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands) or the commanding general of the District of Columbia National Guard. Each of the 54 National Guard organizations is supervised by the adjutant general of the state or territory. Under state law, the Air National Guard provides protection of life, property and preserves peace, order and public safety. These missions are accomplished through emergency relief support during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes and forest fires; search and rescue operations; support to civil defense authorities; maintenance of vital public services and counterdrug operations.