14th Air Force

United States military

Also known as: China Air Task Force

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July 16, 2026

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The 14th Air Force was a component of the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, operating in China. It was formed from the China Air Task Force, which itself was a reorganization of the American Volunteer Group, famously known as the Flying Tigers. The Flying Tigers, recruited by Claire L. Chennault, were American pilots who fought the Japanese in China and Burma from 1941 to 1942. They provided crucial air support, flew supplies, and protected Chinese cities despite facing shortages of resources. The 14th Air Force continued this mission, supporting Chinese and British armies against Japanese forces on the Asian mainland.12

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Claire L. Chennault
…Force (later reorganized as the 14th Air Force) and Chennault was recalled to active duty in 1942. The squadron had great success against Japanese forces, and in 1943 Chennault was promoted to major general. He had frequent clashes with General Joseph Stilwell and other superior officers, however, and in 1945…
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…Force (later reorganized as the 14th Air Force) and Chennault was recalled to active duty in 1942. The squadron had great success against Japanese forces, and in 1943 Chennault was promoted to major general. He had frequent clashes with General Joseph Stilwell and other superior officers, however, and in 1945…
Read More

Flying Tigers
…in March 1943 as the 14th Air Force), still under the command of Chennault, who was later promoted to brigadier general (1942) and major general (1943).
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…in March 1943 as the 14th Air Force), still under the command of Chennault, who was later promoted to brigadier general (1942) and major general (1943).
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