116 Combat Wing

116 Πτέρυγα Μάχης

The mission of the 116 CW, is to maintain a high level of readiness and effectiveness. It is achieved by the appropriate organization, training of personnel and maintenance of the available means and systems. Furthermore, the undertaking and carrying out of air operations, at any given time, in total success.

1936
First use of Araxos airport

1941
At the beginning of April 1941, the runway was ready to receive aircraft flights. In the same period the first RADAR base in Greece was set up in Araxos.

1958
In 1958, it was decided that the airport be modernized, and it would serve jets ever since.

1962
On April 1962, the 116 Combat Group was formed at Araxos airport with F-84F aircraft of the 336 Fighter Bomber Squadron. Lt.Colonel (pilot) Laitmer was the first commander of 116 Combat Group.

1964
The F-84F of 336 FB Sqn were replaced by F-104G aircraft.

1969
On May 1969, the 116 Combat Group was renamed to 116 Combat Wing.

1977
In June 1977 the 355 FB Sqn from 114 CW redeployed to 116 CW with F-104G aircraft.

1992
In 1992 the replacement of F-104Gs with the A-7Es aircraft started.

1993-1995
On March 1993, the retirement of F-104G was completed, while the delivery of A-7E aircraft had been completed by September 1994.
The operational development for 335 Sqn with A-7E aircraft was accomplished on September 1993, and on June 1995 for the 336 Sqn.

1996
In November 1996 the A-7E aircraft Re-training Flight was established and started to operate in March 1997.