4950th Test Wing
| 4950th Test Wing | |
|---|---|
4950th Test Wing emblem
|
|
| Active | 1971-1994 |
| Country | United States |
| Branch | United States Air Force |
| Part of | Air Force Systems Command |
| Garrison/HQ | Wright-Patterson Air Force Base |
| Commanders | |
| Notable commanders |
Col James H. Doolittle III (vice commander) |
The 4950th Test Wing, a wing of the United States Air Force, was established in March 1971.
It was created as the flying unit of the Wright Air Development Center, which was created in June 1951. Wright ADC changed to Division status in December 1959 until it was replaced by the Aeronautical Systems Division (ASD) in April 1961. The 4951st, 4952d and 4953d Test Squadrons were activated in July 1975 and based at the West Ramp (a former Strategic Air Command facility) of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.
ASD is responsible for the design, development and acquisition of aeronautical systems including transports, tankers and utility aircraft, rescue helicopters, long- and short-range air-to-surface missiles, aircraft engines and electronic warfare systems. In addition, the wing supported programs conducted by other AFMC departments. The majority of AFMC's large transport aircraft were assigned to the 4950th Test Wing and were loaned to other agencies as required. The 4950th Test Wing operated a variety of testbed C-135s, many of which have featured major modifications. The wing was consolidated with the AFMC Flight Test Center's 412th Test Wing at Edwards AFB, CA and inactivated in 1994.
Section updated by Major Tony Sylvain, Maj, USAF (Ret), 4950th OMS, 11 Jun 84 to 21 Jan 92.
Aircraft 61-2775, 776, and 777 were pre-production prototypes. These aircraft had multiple subtle differences evolved during design, most notable was the main crew door, which was hinged on the top and opened outward from the bottom. These aircraft were never fitted with air refueling capability and were never converted to C-141Bs. Aircraft specifics:
Section updated by Sgt Rob Schultz (FMS Engine Shop/4953rd AMU, 1986-1992), 26 Apr 2011
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