In September 1943, the wing received three bombardment groups and began combat operations against Nazi Germany, striking such targets as Nantes, Emden, Wilhelmshaven, and Bremen.

For the remainder of World War II, the wing flew numerous missions against military targets throughout occupied Europe and Germany.

It also developed and maintained the capability for effective air refueling and Minuteman II (intercontinental ballistic missile) operations.

In these roles the division conducted staff assistance visits and participated in numerous exercises such as Buy None, Buckskin Rider and Busy Player.

"[1] "After July 1989, the 40th Air Division established policies to ensure support for wartime execution of a strategic ICBM wing and a strategic air refueling wing in accordance with the Single Integrated Operational Plan and Joint Chiefs of Staff directed conventional war-fighting commitments.