The 6th Corps was activated on February 1, 1949, from 6th Column, Northwest Field Army.

Its history could be traced to 3rd Column of Jinsui Military Region formed on November 9, 1947.

In September 1949, Independent Division, 6th Corps was activated from absorbed Republic of China Army captives and defectors.

From November 1949 to January 1950, Headquarters, 6th Corps and 17th Division (except artillery) were deployed into Dihua by rented Aeroflot air transports.

On November 6, 1951, Headquarters, 6th Corps was converted to Air Force Command, Northwestern Military Region.