The 527th Aggressor Squadron, creatively known as the “Aggressors”, was a key tactical training unit to USAF forces in Europe. Stationed at RAF Bentwaters in the UK and flying the F-16C, the squadron was critical at emulating Soviet threats in the waning days of the Cold War from 1988-1990.
Formed in 1976 out of RAF Alconbury, the 527th TFTAS, under the 10th TFW, initially used the F-5E tigers in “Red Bear” patterns for dissimilar air combat training against NATO forces over East Anglia. With shifts in foreign policy, the unit would relocate to Bentwaters with newer F-16C’s from squadrons located in Germany.
Following their full reassignment to now 12 F-16s, the squadron would resume DACT duties in 1988 hosting a variety of allied squadrons for exercises such as Team Spirit and Green Flag. The Fall of the Wall in 1989 would spell the end for the unit, as in late 1990 the squadron would be deactivated, its legacy carried forward through to the 527th Space Aggressor Squadron.
