The 187th AS is the group's operational unit and has had the C-130H assigned since 1994. The unit was established as the 187th Fighter Squadron in August 1946 with the P-51D and mobilized in April 1951, becoming the 187th Fighter-Bomber Squadron. The squadron returned to state control in December 1952 and converted to the F-80C in August 1953. Redesignated 187th FIS in February 1955, the unit converted to F-86Ls three years later. The 153rd FIG was assigned in February 1958. The squadron became the 187th Aeromedical Transport Squadron with the MC-119J in February 1961. C-121Gs were assigned in June 1963 with a change to Air Transport Squadron status, until the squadron was redesignated the 187th MAS in January 1966. The unit became the 187th TAS in April 1972 upon conversion to the C-130B.