Forward Operating Locations (FOL) During The Cold War?

**Dago** · 30 Aug 11,, 04:07

I've searched and came up with nothing. I am trying to find out what was the main Forward Operating Locations of SAC during the Cold War? For Bombers? I was guessing one of you guys would know or maybe drop down whatever you could remember off the top of your head! Even a source or link would be great!

**Stitch** · 30 Aug 11,, 04:35

I'm no expert, but I know that before we had truly intercontinental bombers (and, actually, even after that), some of our forward operating bases for SAC included Incirlik in Turkey (before we pissed them off), Torrejón Air Base in Spain, and Morocco.

**Dago** · 30 Aug 11,, 05:50

Yeah, I remember Turkey. Had no idea we had one in Morocoo. I guess Wheelus was another FOL " As the Cold War overtook post-World War II international politics, on 16 November 1950 USAF's Strategic Air Command (SAC) began deploying B-50s, B-36s, B-47s and support aircraft (KB-29, KB-50, and KC-97 tankers) from US air bases to Wheelus. The base became one of several SAC forward operating locations (FOLs) in North Africa, becoming a vital link in SAC war plans for use as a bomber, tanker refueling and recon-fighter base.".

**Jimmy** · 31 Aug 11,, 00:38

Originally Posted by Stitch

I'm no expert, but I know that before we had truly intercontinental bombers (and, actually, even after that), some of our forward operating bases for SAC included Incirlik in Turkey (before we pissed them off), Torrejón Air Base in Spain, and Morocco.

We still use Incirlik.

**Doktor** · 31 Aug 11,, 00:49

Originally Posted by Jimmy

We still use Incirlik.

It was closed for all non-NATO operations for 3 years in the 70s

**Stitch** · 31 Aug 11,, 05:06

Originally Posted by Jimmy

We still use Incirlik.

You're right; I was thinking of 1975 when Turkey basically kicked the US out of their country. I think that basically ended it's use as a SAC base. When the US was able to return in 1978, it was mostly used by TAC.