The 480th Fighter Squadron is a military unit within the United States Air Force. Established on February 15, 1943, during World War II, the squadron initially operated North American P-51 Mustang fighters. Over the years, it has been assigned to various fighter aircraft, including the Northrop F-5E Tiger II and the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon. The 480th FS is currently stationed at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom as part of the 495th Fighter Group under the 4th Air Force. Historically, the squadron has seen action in various conflicts including the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. Its mission is to execute air superiority operations in defense of NATO interests.