The 494th Fighter Squadron is a unit of the United States Air Force that operates within the active duty component of the United States Air Forces in Europe Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA). Established in 1952, this squadron has been primarily associated with fighter aircraft operations. Initially, it was equipped with P-80 Shooting Star jet fighters during the Cold War era. Throughout its history, the 494th Fighter Squadron has seen various deployments and transitions, including operating F-100 Super Sabre and F-15 Eagle aircraft. Currently, it is assigned to the 480th Fighter Wing at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, United Kingdom. The squadron’s mission involves defending North America and U.S. interests by conducting air superiority, close air support, and offensive counterair operations.