The US Army Air Corps, also known as the Army Air Forces or AAF, was the aerial warfare branch of the United States Army during a specific period in history. Founded on July 2, 1926, the Air Corps operated as a division within the US Army until June 20, 1941, when it was officially expanded and re-designated as the Army Air Forces. This transformation gave the Air Corps greater autonomy and elevated it to an equal status with the ground forces.
During World War I, the Air Service of the US Army proved its importance and demonstrated the need for a separate air force. With the establishment of the Army Air Corps, it became responsible for organizing, training, and equipping personnel and aircraft for combat missions. Its primary focus was on tactical air support, strategic bombing, and reconnaissance. Notably, the Air Corps played a major role in the development of aviation technology and tactics.
The Army Air Corps was responsible for various milestones in aviation history, including Charles Lindbergh's solo flight across the Atlantic in 1927. Additionally, it pursued the development of long-range bombers like the B-17 Flying Fortress, which later played a crucial role during World War II.
In 1947, the Army Air Corps underwent a significant restructuring and was re-established as a separate branch of the US military known as the United States Air Force. This change was in response to the growing role and requirements of air power in modern warfare.
