US Air Forces in Europe: The 1980s

The US Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) rapidly expanded its presence in the 1980s, as it became the most dangerous decade of the Cold War. Most controversially, a new generation of intermediate-range nuclear weapons was deployed by both sides. As tensions between the East and West escalated, a new generation of aircraft arrived at bases across Western Europe - state of the art F-15 Eagle air superiority fighters were followed by the A 10 tank busters and the multi-role F-16 Fighting Falcons. Illustrated with over 180 images, this book examines the aircraft and bases of the USAFE during the 1980s. It also describes the vital support provided by other arms of the USAF, including Military Airlift Command’s transport and tanker fleet. The part played by Strategic Air Command’s iconic SR-71s, U-2s, and giant B-52 bombers is outlined, as is the role of Tactical Air Command, which would have rapidly reinforced USAFE in time of war.