85th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron

85th Test and Evaluation Squadron
85th TES F-16D Fighting Falcon over the northwest Florida coastline during an evaluation mission in 2004
Active	9 February 1942 - 15 July 1947 1 November 1952 - 1 July 1959 12 April 1971 - Present
Country	United States
Branch	United States Air Force
Role	Weapon system testing and evaluation
Part of	Air Combat Command Air Force Warfare Center 53d Wing 53d Test and Evaluation Group
Garrison/HQ	Eglin Air Force Base, Florida
Engagements	Mediterranean Theater of Operations
Decorations	Distinguished Unit Citation Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
Insignia
85th Test and Evaluation Squadron emblem (approved 8 August 1984, modified 26 May 1987)

The 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron (85 TES) is part of the 53d Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. It conducts testing and evaluation for the F-15 Eagle, F-15E Strike Eagle, and F-16 Fighting Falcon airframes.

The 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron is responsible for conducting operational test and evaluation, tactics development, and programs for F-15C, F-15E, and F-16CM aircraft. It uses specially instrumented aircraft to test and evaluate current and future weapons, the newest air-to ground munitions, air-to-air missiles, electronic warfare systems, and associated components and avionics.

The squadron provides operational fighter expertise to United States Air Force Headquarters, Department of Defense agencies, and the aerospace industry in developing future aircraft and in employment techniques and concepts. The 85th focuses on air-to-air missile employment and tactics, suppression and destruction of enemy air defenses and lethal precision engagement.

Activated on 9 February 1942. Moved to Egypt, October–November 1942, and became part of Ninth Air Force.

Trained with Curtiss P-40 Warhawks's while moving westward in the wake of the British drive across Egypt and Libya to Tunisia. Although many of the unit's pilots flew combat missions with other organizations, the 79th group itself did not begin operations until March 1943. By escorting bombers, attacking enemy shipping, and supporting ground forces, took part in the Allied operations that defeated Axis forces in North Africa, captured Pantelleria, and conquered Sicily.