When was the Strategic Air Command founded?

The Strategic Air Command (SAC) was founded in 1946 as part of the United States Air Force. At this time, the command was established to oversee the nation's strategic bombing capability and manage nuclear deterrent forces during the early years of the Cold War. The primary objective of SAC was to provide a credible deterrent against potential adversaries, particularly in the context of the Soviet Union and the growing nuclear arms race.

The choice of 1946 is significant as it marks the transition period following World War II, when the U.S. recognized the need for a focused command structure to address emerging global threats. The foundation of SAC represented a strategic shift in military thinking, emphasizing nuclear capabilities as a central part of U.S. defense policy. This command played a crucial role throughout the Cold War and into the post-war era, shaping U.S. military strategy and operations.