The 169th FS is the group's operational squadron and has had the F-16A ADF assigned since mid-March 1992. The 169th Fighter Squadron was formed in June 1947 and flew P-51Ds until October 1952, when the F-51H was delivered. The 169th was redesignated a Fighter-Bomber Squadron with just the T-28A, until becoming the 169th FIS in March 1956 with the F-84F. The unit's designation changed to a Tactical Fighter Squadron and it was mobilized between October 1961 and August 1962, with the 182nd TFG assigned in October 1962. The 169th became a Tactical Air Support Squadron in May 1969 with the U-3A, until 1971 when it converted to the O-2A. The unit upgraded to the OA-37B in the winter of 1979.