User:Navalaviator84/sandbox
This article relies largely or entirely on a single source. (October 2015) |
Naval Aircrewman | |
---|---|
Issued by | United States Navy |
Type | Enlisted rating |
Abbreviation | AW |
Naval Aircrewman (AW) is an enlisted general rating of the U.S. Navy. Sailors in the AW rating serve as aircraft systems operators or inflight system maintenance technicians aboard U. S. Navy fixed and rotoray winged aircraft. They perform duties as varied as aerial gunners, rescue swimmers, radar and sonar operators, airborne mine countermeasures system operators, strategic communications systems specialists, loadmasters, repair technicians, and various other functions depending on the specific aircraft type in which they fly. The rating is divided into five subdivisions termed "service ratings". Those service ratings are: Naval Aircrewman Operator (AWO); Naval Aircrewman Helicopter (AWS); Naval Aircrewman Tactical Helicopter (AWR); Naval Aircrewman Mechanical (AWF); and Naval Aircrewman Avionics (AWV).[1] All five service ratings are identified by a single AW Rating Badge. Many technologically advanced navies have a similar trade.
History of the AW Rating
[edit]The AW rating was originally established on 1 Sep 1968 by BuPers Note 1440 of 29 Feb 1968 as the "Aviation Antisubmarine Warfare Operator" rating (abbreviated AW). It identified those Sailors who's job it was to operate radar, sonar and other submarine detection systems installed in the Navy's submarine hunting fixed and rotary winged aircraft of the time. In 1993 the rating name was changed to "Aviation Warfare Systems Operator" (without changing the AW abbreviation) by BuPers Note 1440 of 16 Nov 1993. The change in the rating's name reflected the expanded scope of the duties performed by AW Sailors who were by then flying in newer, more multi-mission aircraft and were performing, depending on the specific aircraft type, anti-surface warfare, combat search and rescue and/or naval special warfare support missions in addition to their traditional antisubmarine warfare functions.
In addition to Sailors in the AW rating, other Sailors primarily in aircraft maintenance ratings had been flying as crewmen aboard the Navy's various fixed and rotary winged utility, cargo or special mission aircraft performing airborne mine countermeasures, logistics, communications relay, airborne repair or maintenance of critical systems, flight engineer, loadmaster or other specialized functions.
On 2 May of 2005, NAVADMIN 092/05 titled "Helicopter Enlisted Naval Aircrew Rating Consolidation" was released which directed the consolidation of all helicopter aircrewmen in maintenance ratings (those holding Navy Enlisted Classifications (NEC) of 78xx and 94xx) into the Aviation Warfare Systems Operator (AW) rating thereby bringing all helicopter aircrewmen into the AW rating.[2] [3]
On 30 May of 2008, NAVADMIN 153/08 titled "Enlisted Naval Aircrew (NAC) Rating Consolidation" was released which brought about major changes to the AW rating. It changed the name of the AW rating from "Aviation Warfare Systems Operator" to "Naval Aircrewman" (while retaining the AW abbreviation); it converted all remaining aircrewmen with maintenance ratings to the AW rating (NAVADMIN 092/05 had previously converted all helicopter aircrewmen to the AW rating, but it had not converted the fixed wing maintenance rating crewmen to AW); and it subdivided the AW rating into five "service ratings." Those five service ratings being: Naval Aircrewman Operator (AWO); Naval Aircrewman Helicopter (AWS); Naval Aircrewman Tactical Helicopter (AWR); Naval Aircrewman Mechanical (AWF); and Naval Aircrewman Avionics (AWV).
Naval Aircrew Warfare Specialist
[edit]Naval Aircrewmen are easily identified by the Gold Wings which they wear which are similar to the wings of Naval Aviators who pilot the aircraft and of Naval Flight Officers who along with the Naval Aircrewmen perform the critical non-pilot functions which are essential to operating and employing naval aircraft. These Gold Wings are earned after an AW completes his or her training pipeline and reports to his or her first operational squadron. Within 18 months of arrival in the squadron the new Naval Aircrewman is required to earn qualification as a "Naval Aircrew Warfare Specialist" (NAC). The qualification is earned through a training program in the squadron during which he or she is required to learn and demonstrate the knowledge and abilities required to operate and employ naval aircraft in the missions or tasks assigned.
Upon satisfactory completion of the program and demonstration of the required knowledge by sitting for a qualification board of the squadrons leaders, the new AW is awarded the Gold Naval Aircrew Warfare Specialist "Wings" and the designation "NAC" is added to the Sailor's title or rate in the following manner "AWO2(NAC) John Smith." When spoken the designation "NAC" is spoken "Aircrew Warfare so "AWO2(NAC) John Smith" is spoken "Naval Aircrewman Operator Second Class, Aircrew Warfare, John Smith.[4]
Prior to the change in the name of the AW rating from "Aviaition Warfare Systems Operator" to the current name "Naval Aircrewman", these Gold Wings were called "Naval Aircrew" Wings and the designation "(NAC)" was spoken "Naval Aircrew".
Following is an example of the change in the names of the rating and the wings:
-Prior to the changes: AW2(NAC) John Smith, spoken as "Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 2nd Class, Naval Aircrew, John Smith.
-After the changes: AWS2(NAC) John Smith, spoken as "Naval Aircrewman Helicopter 2nd Class, Aircrew Warfare, John Smith.
Training
[edit]The Navy offers two training programs to recruits and to fleet personnel both of which result in the Sailor becoming a Naval Aircrewmen (AW). Those two programs are the Aircrew Program which is abbreviated AIRC, and the Aviation Rescue Swimmer Program which is abbreviated AIRR. The initial training for both programs is conducted at Naval Aircrew Candidate School (NACCS).[5][6]
After completion of NACCS those in the AIRC program will progress directly to a rating specific "A" school. Assignment to an "A" school for a rating within the program will be made while assigned to NACCS and will be based on the applicant's test scores, personal desires and needs of the Navy. The ratings within the AIRC program are AWO, AWF and AWV.
While in NACCS Sailors in the AIRR program are also assigned to a follow-on "A" school for a rating within their program based on the same selection criteria described above, but those Sailors will attend Aviation Rescue Swimmer School (ARSS) after completion of NACCS and prior to reporting to their rating specific "A" school. The ratings within the AIRR program are AWR and AWS.
After Completion of the rating specific "A" school, training continues with assignment to an aircraft specific Fleet Replacement Squadron's Fleet Replacement Aircrew Training (FRAC) department where the AW learns the specifics of the aircraft he or she will be crewing.
Additionally, Sailors in either program will attend Survival Evasion Resistance and Escape (SERE) training prior to reporting to their first operational squadron.
Training pipelines vary in length depending on the program (AIRC or AIRR) and the lengths of each the rating specific "A" schools (AWO, AWF, AWV, AWR, AWS) but on average it will take between 18 months and two years for an AW to complete his or her training pipeline.
Training Pipeline Schools
[edit]- Naval Aircrew Candidate School (NACCS)
NACCS, at NAS Pensacola, Florida, is a four week school whch trains and evaluates AW students in basic flight physiology and water survival. The course includes low-pressure hypobaric chamber training, night-vision evaluations, multi-station spatial-disorientation device (also known as the "spin and puke") training, and aircraft-emergency-water-egress device. The curriculum also includes advanced first aid and CPR and physical training with road runs up to 2–4 miles and one-mile swims.
- Aviation Rescue Swimmer School (ARSS)
ARSS is a six week school, also at NAS Pensacola, Florida. Is the second step in the AWR and AWS training pipeline (AWO, AWF and AWV do not attend ARSS) and leads to qualification as a Navy rescue swimmer. To graduate from Aviation Rescue Swimmer School applicants must: Be comfortable in a water and underwater environment; Quickly adapt to the use of mask, fins and snorkel; Be comfortable and proficient in administering medical and lifesaving procedures; Complete the Rescue Swimmer Fitness out Test: 4 pull-ups in a flight suit and boots within 2 minutes, Carry two 50-pound dumbbells, Perform 42 push-ups in 2 minutes, Perform 50 sit-ups in 2 minutes, Swim a 400-meter buddy tow in 18 minutes; Complete all in-course testable evolutions: 90 minutes of extensive calisthenics and 30 to 35 minute runs daily, Swim 800 meters within 20 minutes, Swim 1500 meters within 35 minutes, Swim 2000 meters within 55 minutes, Swim 400 meters buddy tow within 16 minutes, Swim 800 meters buddy tow within 35 minutes.[7]
- “A” School
Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) provides accession students a basic introduction to the fundamentals the student must be well versed in to operate on their prospective platform. Active and passive electronic warfare, active and passive sonar. Reading sonograms, magnetic anomaly detection equipment, physics, wave propagation, oceanography, meteorology and working with classified information are included in this phase of training.
- Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE)
The Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) course is designed to provide Level "C" Code of Conduct training to pilots, flight officers, intelligence officers, aircrew, and other designated high-risk-of-capture personnel, as directed by respective TYCOMs/MCCDC in accordance with DOD Instruction 1300.21 and the Joint Personnel Recovery Agency (JPRA) executive agent instruction. Training encompasses those basic skills necessary for worldwide survival, facilitating search-and-rescue efforts, evading capture by hostile forces, resistance to interrogation, exploitation, and indoctrination, and escape from detention by enemy forces, in accordance with DOD Instruction 1300.21. It is based on and reinforces the values expressed in the code of conduct while maintaining an appropriate balance of sound educational methodology and realistic/stressful training scenarios.
Participation in SERE training requires certification of a current physical examination (within 1 year for aircrew) and completion of a medical-screening form within 14 days of training by competent medical authority (i.e., flight surgeon, IDC). If students report for training without medical and dental records, they are dis-enrolled from the course. Because SERE training is physically demanding, students must comply with their own service's body fat standards and have successfully passed their most recent physical-readiness test.
- Fleet Replacement Aircrew Training (FRAC)
This phase of training immerses the student much further into training for their specific platform and specialty. Typically, the student will report to an East Coast or West Coast Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) to conduct training. Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) and tactics are also introduced. After completion of training and reporting for duty in the fleet, they are required to complete “on the job training” lasting around six months before being recognized as fully qualified.
Position summaries
[edit]There are several platforms (fixed wing P-3 Orion and rotary wing MH-60R/S aircraft, aircraft carriers, etc.) specialties and special certifications available within the rating. Additional training can be acquired to qualify rotary wing AWs as Combat Search and Rescue(CSAR) crewman. Below is a list of specialties within the rating.
Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)
[edit](abbreviated as AWS/AWR)
These Aircrewmen have successfully completed Aviation Rescue Swimmer School (ARSS) in Pensacola, Florida along with the multiple schools in the training pipeline. According to multiple sources, the average pipeline graduation rate is 22%. Sailors who choose this career path need to possess above-average maturity and the ability to stay calm in high-stress situations. AIRR's are trained in basic emergency medicine, rappelling, and various other skills other AW's will not receive. They share many similarities to Coast Guard Aviation Survival Technicians. They are often utilized in humanitarian, combat, and peacetime missions. On average, with both the pipeline and required on-the-job training, it takes about two years to become a qualified AIRR. The training pipeline is as follows:
- Aircrew Candidate School (3 weeks)
- Rescue Swimmer School (5 weeks)
- "A" School (7 weeks for AWS, 14 weeks for AWR)
- SERE (2 weeks)
- Fleet Replacement Squadrons (6-12 months at assigned Air Station)
AIRR Tactical Helicopter
[edit](abbreviated as AWR)
AWRs go through NACCS and Rescue Swimmer Schools as well, then split off into their own pipeline from there. Going to A-School (13 weeks), FRAC(about 1 year long), SERE (2 weeks). AWRs perform the same jobs as regular AIRR crewman (AWS) as well as locating submarines using acoustics sensors, which has earned them the nickname "Subhunters". They also perform various Surface Warfare missions using Radar and other sensors on board the aircraft.
C-2A Loadmaster
[edit]These AWFs fly on the C-2A Greyhound, a carrier-based fixed-wing aircraft. They fly high priority passengers, cargo, and mail to and from aircraft carriers. Their designations as loadmasters start from FRAC school at VAW-120 in Norfolk, Virginia where they become transport second crewman. From there these AWs complete on the job training, their NAWS package, and a second crewman board to become carrier transport second crewman. And then finally completing more job specific qualifications to become a carrier transport crew chief. These AWF's are also highly skilled and qualified in the maintenance program and work hand in hand with their maintenance work centers to better improve their knowledge of the aircraft.
Naval Aircrewman (operator)
[edit]- Aboard aircraft
- Note: abbreviated as AWO, SS1, & SS2
These AWs fly in a fixed wing, long range patrol aircraft. Currently the P-3 Orion is fulfilling this role, with the P-8 Poseidon planned to take over this mission starting in 2013. Acoustic sensor operators begin their career in the fleet after attending specialized training. They start as sensor operator 2, and after sufficient flight and related experience is acquired, advance to sensor operator 1 with their own crew. The job can be related to the civilian fields of machine condition monitoring, or predictive maintenance. The AW is responsible for the analysis of all sensor data and must interpret this data in order to search for, localize and track, determine spatial orientation and vector, identify, assess condition of, establish attack parameters on a single, or multiple surface or subsurface contacts. These systems include but are not limited to passive sonar used to listen to underwater sounds, active sonar systems which can be used to pinpoint targets. They control the type and settings for the sonobuoys, underwater communication equipment for platform to platform communication, sensor system to fire control system data transfer and recording.
- Aboard aircraft
- Note: abbreviated as AWO, SS3
Non-acoustic AWs, also known as "sensor 3s" or electronic warfare operators, (EWO's), currently fly in P-3 Orion aircraft, they will be transitioning to the P-8A Poseidon beginning in 2013. Non-acoustic AWs are responsible for operating the radar, electronic support measures system, electro-optical/infrared imaging devices and magnetic anomaly detection device aboard variants of the P-3 Orion. They acquire data necessary to identify surface or air contacts, and can also provide data to help search, localize, and track contacts of interest. SS3s aid in establishing attack parameters on a single, or multiple surface contact. Non-acoustic operators also work with the flight station and navigator to ensure safety-of-flight conditions are maintained.
- Aboard ship or on land
- Note: abbreviated as ASWMOD/ASWOC
These AWs brief and debrief aircrews, filter through, organize, and relay intelligence collected during the mission in an aircraft carrier ASW module (ASMOD) or in a land-based ASW operations center (ASWOC). They coordinate ASW information-gathering throughout the battle group, operate various under-sea warfare and non-under-sea warfare related sensor systems to extract, analyze and classify data obtained; perform specified pre-flight, in-flight and post-flight operations in a multitude of naval aircraft serving anti-surface, USW, mine countermeasures, electronic, counter-narcotics, and land and sea rescue missions performance; operate tactical support center systems to analyze and classify USW and non-USW data; assist in aircrew briefing and debriefing; and provide data base information to the tactical commander for use in prescribing mission objectives and tactics.
Previous platforms
[edit]Past AW-crewed aircraft include aircraft carrier-based S-3 Viking and S-2 Tracker aircraft. They also flew in SH-3 Sea King and SH-2 Seasprite helicopters and P-2 Neptune patrol aircraft.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ NAVADMIN 153/08 dated 30 May 2008
- ^ NAVADMIN 092/05
- ^ Rotor Review, winter 2019 issue #143, page 70
- ^ MILPERSMAN article 1220-020 dtd 9 Feb 2019
- ^ https://www.cool.osd.mil/usn/rating_info_cards/airc.pdf
- ^ https://www.cool.osd.mil/usn/rating_info_cards/airr.pdf
- ^ https://www.cool.osd.mil/usn/rating_info_cards/airr.pdf
- ^ "Navy enlisted manpower and personnel classifications" (PDF). Bureau of Naval Personnel. US Navy. Archived (PDF) from the original on 25 March 2009. Retrieved 23 April 2009.
United States Naval Aviation 1910–1995, Appendix 14, Aviation Ratings Naval Historical Center http://www.navytimes.com/news/2008/05/navy_aircrewrating_052708w/
Category:United States Navy ratings
This is a list of United States Navy aircraft wings. The U.S. Navy operates different kinds of aircraft wings. Carrier air wings are operational units made up of squadrons of different kinds of aircraft and which deploy aboard aircraft carriers. Type Wings are wings of a single type/model aircraft which do not deploy; they are "force providers" providing combat ready squadrons to deploying Carrier Air Wings and to other Navy or joint forces. Functional wings are wings organized to perform a specific function such as logistics or strategic communication; these wings may consist of squadrons of a single type/model of aircraft or of various type/models of aircraft to perform that function. Lastly, the Navy operates Training Air Wings which train Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard Student Naval Aviators and Student Naval Flight Officers qualifying them as Naval Aviators and Naval Flight Officers. All Navy aircraft wings are commanded by an officer holding the rank of Captain.
Carrier Air Wings (CVW)
[edit]See Carrier air wing
Currently Active Carrier Air Wings
[edit]Carrier Air Wings were first established on 1 July 1938 when the aircraft squadrons assigned to the aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV 2), USS Saratoga (CV 3), USS Ranger (CV 4), USS Yorktown (CV 5) and USS Enterprise (CV 6) were established as "Carrier Air Groups" assigned to each of those ships. Two of those Carrier Air Groups are still active today as Carrier Air Wings ONE and THREE. On 20 December 1963 all Carrier Air Groups which were then in existence were redesignated Carrier Air Wings (CVW).
Carrier Air Wings of the United States Navy. Carrier Air Wings were titled Carrier Air Groups (CVG, CVAG or CVBG) prior to 20 Dec 1963 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Wing | Tail Code | Insignia | Notes[1] | |
Carrier Air Wing ONE |
CVW-1 | 1946 T 1957 AB |
Established as Ranger Air Group on 1 July 1938 (squadrons operating from USS Ranger (CV-4) had been informally called "Ranger Air Group" beginning 17 Aug 1934 but the air group was not established as a unit until 1 July 1938), redesignated CVG-4 (1st use of the designation) on 3 Aug 1943, redesignated CVAG-1 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-1 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1948, redesignated CVW-1 on 20 Dec 1963. | |
Carrier Air Wing TWO |
CVW-2 | 1946 M 1957 NE |
Established as CVBG-74 on 1 May 1945, redesignated CVBG-1 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-2 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1948, redesignated CVW-2 on 20 Dec 1963. | |
Carrier Air Wing THREE |
CVW-3 | 1946 K 1957 AC |
Established as Saratoga Air Group on 1 July 1938 (squadrons operating from USS Saratoga (CV-3) had been informally called "Saratoga Air Group" beginning 6 Jan 1928 but the air group was not established as a unit until 1 July 1938), redesignated CVG-3 (1st use of the designation) on 25 Sep 1943, redesignated CVAG-3 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-3 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1948, redesignated CVW-3 on 20 Dec 1963. | |
Carrier Air Wing FIVE |
CVW-5 | 1946 S 1957 NF |
Established as CVG-5 (1st use of the designation) on 1 Jan 1943, redesignated CVAG-5 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-5 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1948, redesignated CVW-5 on 20 Dec 1963. | |
Carrier Air Wing SEVEN |
CVW-7 | 1946 L 1957 AG |
Established as CVG-18 on 2 Jul 1943, redesignated CVAG-7 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-7 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1948, redesignated CVW-7 on 20 Dec 1963. | |
Carrier Air Wing EIGHT |
CVW-8 | 1951 E 1957 AJ |
Established as CVG-8 (2nd use of the designation) on 9 Apr 1951, redesignated CVW-8 on 20 Dec 1963. | |
Carrier Air Wing NINE |
CVW-9 | 1952 N 1957 NG |
Established as CVG-9 (3rd use of the designation) on 26 Mar 1952, redesignated CVW-9 on 20 Dec 1963. | |
Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN |
CVW-11 | 1946 V 1957 NH |
Established as CVG-11 (1st use of the designation) on 10 Oct 1942, redesignated CVAG-11 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-11 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1948, redesignated CVW-11 on 20 Dec 1963. | |
Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN |
CVW-17 | 1966 AA 2012 NA |
Established as CVW-17 on 1 Nov 1966 (established as an Atlantic Fleet air wing (AA) and transferred to the Pacific Fleet (NA) in 2012) |
- Tail codes with a first letter "A" denote Atlantic Fleet airwings, while "N" denotes Pacific Fleet airwings.
Disestablished Carrier Air Wings
[edit]Carrier Air Wings (CVW)
[edit]Disestablished Carrier Air Wings (CVW). The CVW designation has been in use since 20 Dec 1963. | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Wing | Tail Code | Insignia | Notes[1] | |
Readiness Carrier Air Wing FOUR |
RCVW-4 | 1950 F 1957 AD |
Established as CVG-4 (3rd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1950, redesignated RCVG-4 on 1 Apr 1958, redesignated RCVW-4 on 20 Dec 1963. Disestablished 1 Jun 1970; tail code still used by Atlantic Fleet fixed wing CVW aircraft Fleet Replacement Squadrons | |
Carrier Air Wing SIX |
CVW-6 | 1946 C 1957 AF 1963 AE |
Established as CVG-17 (1st use of the designation) on 1 Jan 1943, redesignated CVBG-17 on 23 Jan 1946, redesignated CVBG-5 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-6 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1948, redesignated CVW-6 on 20 Dec 1963. Disestablished 1 April 1993 | |
Carrier Air Wing TEN (1st use) |
CVW-10 | 1952 P 1957 AK |
Established as CVG-10 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 May 1952, redesignated CVW-10 (1st use of the designation) on 20 Dec 1963. Disestablished 20 November 1969 | |
Carrier Air Wing TEN (2nd use) |
CVW-10 | NM | Established as CVW-10 (2nd use of the designation) on 7 Nov 1986. Disestablished 1 Jun 1988; planned for assignment to USS Independence (CV-62) but never deployed. | |
Readiness Carrier Air Wing TWELVE |
RCVW-12 | 1950 D 1957 NJ |
Established as CVG-102 (established to receive USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War) on 1 Aug 1950, redesignated CVG-12 (2nd use of the designation) on 4 Feb 1952, redesignated RCVG-12 on 1 Apr 1958, redesignated RCVW-12 on 20 Dec 1963. Disestablished 30 June 1970; tail code still used by Pacific Fleet fixed wing CVW aircraft Fleet Replacement Squadrons | |
Carrier Air Wing THIRTEEN |
CVW-13 | AK | Established as CVW-13 on 1 Mar 1984. Disestablished 1 January 1991[2] | |
Carrier Air Wing FOURTEEN |
CVW-14 | 1950 K 1957 NK |
Established as CVG-101 (established to receive USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War) on 1 Aug 1950, redesignated CVG-14 (2nd use of the designation) on 4 Feb 1952, redesignated CVW-14 on 20 Dec 1963. Deactivated 31 March 2017. Had been under-strength in squadrons, had not deployed since 2011 and had been in reduced manning since 1 October 2013. Deactivation was originally begun in 2012 but was reversed due to congressional action. Deactivation reinitiated and completed in 2017.[3] | |
Carrier Air Wing FIFTEEN |
CVW-15 | 1951 H 1957 NL |
Established as CVG-15 (3rd use of the designation) on 5 Apr 1951, redesignated CVW-15 on 20 Dec 1963. Disestablished 31 March 1995. Tail code NL is now used by land based "expeditionary" VAQ squadrons of Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | |
Carrier Air Wing SIXTEEN |
CVW-16 | AH | Established as CVG-16 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1960, redesignated CVW-16 on 20 Dec 1963. Disestablished 30 June 1970 | |
Carrier Air Wing NINETEEN |
CVW-19 | 1946 B 1957 NM |
Established as CVG-19 (1st use of the designation) on 1 Aug 1943, redesignated CVAG-19 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-19 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Sep 1948, redesignated CVW-19 on 20 Dec 1963. Disestablished 30 June 1977 | |
Carrier Air Wing Reserve TWENTY |
CVWR-20 | AF | U. S. Navy Reserve Wing Established as CVWR-20 on 1 April 1970, redesignated Tactical Support Wing (TSW), 1 April 2007 (See Type and Functional Wings in the "Currently Active Wings" section) | |
Carrier Air Wing TWENTY ONE |
CVW-21 | 1955 G 1957 NP |
Established as CVG-21 (2nd use of the designation) on 1 Jul 1955, redesignated CVW-21 on 20 Dec 1963. Disestablished 12 December 1975[2] | |
Carrier Air Wing Reserve THIRTY |
CVWR-30 | ND | U. S. Navy Reserve Wing Established as CVWR-30 on 1 Apr 1970. Disestablished 31 Dec 1994 |
- Tail codes with a first letter "A" denoted Atlantic Fleet airwings, while "N" denoted Pacific Fleet airwings.
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Groups (CVSG)
[edit]In the 1960s some WWII Essex class aircraft carriers were designated as "Anti-Submarine Carriers" (CVS) and were paired with newly established "Anti-Submarine Carrier Air Groups" (CVSG). CVSGs consisted of Helicopter Antisubmarine (HS) squadrons of SH-3 Sea Kings and Air Antisubmarine (VS) squadrons of S-2 Trackers along with a detachment of airborne early warning E-1 Tracers from Airborne Early Warning (VAW) squadrons and a detachment A-4 Skyhawks from Anti-Submarine Fighter (VSF) squadrons for self defense. The CVSGs were not included in the redesignation of Carrier Air Groups (CVG)s to Carrier Air Wings (CVW)s in 1963 and therefore they were the last "Carrier Air Groups" to exist in the U.S. Navy.
Disestablished Antisubmarine Carrier Air Groups (CVSG). The CVSG designation was in use from 1960 to 1976 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Group | Tail Code | Insignia | Notes[1] | |
Readiness Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY | RCVSG-50 | AR | Established on 30 Jun 1960, disestablished 17 Feb 1971; tail code remained in use by Atlantic Fleet fixed and rotary wing carrier based ASW aircraft Fleet Replacement Squadrons until 1997 | |
Readiness Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY ONE | RCVSG-51 | RA | Established 30 Jun 1960, disestablished 30 Jun 1970; tail code remained in use by Pacific Fleet fixed and rotary wing carrier based ASW aircraft Fleet Replacement Squadrons until 2012 | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY TWO | CVSG-52 | AS | Established 1 Jun 1960, disestablished 15 Dec 1969 | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY THREE | CVSG-53 | NS | Established 1 Apr 1960, disestablished 30 Jun 1973[4] | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY FOUR | CVSG-54 | AT | Established 18 May 1960, disestablished 1 Jul 1972 | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY FIVE | CVSG-55 | NU | Established 1 Sep 1960, disestablished 27 Sep 1968 | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY SIX | CVSG-56 | AU | Established 25 May 1960, disestablished 30 Jun 1973[4] | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY SEVEN | CVSG-57 | NV | Established 3 Jan 1961, disestablished 30 Sep 1969 | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY EIGHT | CVSG-58 | AV | Established 6 Jun 1960, disestablished 31 May 1966 | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group FIFTY NINE | CVSG-59 | NT | Established 1 Apr 1960, disestablished 30 Jun 1973[4] | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group SIXTY | CVSG-60 | AW | Established 2 May 1960, disestablished 1 Oct 1968 | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group SIXTY TWO | CVSG-62 | AX | Established 1 Sep 1961, disestablished 1 Oct 1962 | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group Reserve SEVENTY | CVSGR-70 | AW | U. S. Navy Reserve Wing Established 1 May 1970,[5] disestablished 30 Jun 1976 | |
Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group Reserve EIGHTY | CVSGR-80 | NW | U. S. Navy Reserve Wing Established 1 May 1970,[5] disestablished 30 Jul 1976. Tail Code "NW" was adopted by Helicopter Wing Reserve (See Reserve Air Wings in the "disestablished type and functional wings" section) and is still in use today by the two remaining USNR helicopter squadrons. |
- Tail codes with a first letter "A" denoted Atlantic Fleet airwings, while "N" denoted Pacific Fleet airwings.
Air Task Groups (ATG)
[edit]Air Task Groups were formed beginning in 1951 to address a shortage of Carrier Air Groups (CVG)s due to involvement in the Korean War. The number of CVGs was statutorily limited but the Navy needed more of them. The solution was to form "temporary" task groups by reassigning some squadrons from existing CVGs and using them to form an "Air Task Group" (ATG). This reduced the number of squadrons in those CVGs from the then typical five total VF/VA squadrons to four total VF/VA squadrons but gave the Navy more "CVGs". They were carrier air group (CVG) equivalents in every respect but in name but as "temorary" units they were neither formerly "established" or "disestablished" instead they were "formed" and "disbanded." Though the ATG was created in response to the Korean War, they ended up outlasting that conflict.[6]
Disbanded Air Task Groups (ATG). The ATG designation was in use from 1950 to 1959. | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Group | Tail Code | Insignia | Notes[1] | |
Air Task Group ONE | ATG-1 | 1956 U 1957 NA |
Formed Oct 1951, disbanded 23 Feb 1959. | |
Air Task Group TWO | ATG-2 | 1956 W 1957 NB |
Split out of CVG-19 and named "CVG-19X" (with CVG-19's Tail Code "B") on 1 Aug 1950, renamed ATG-2 in Oct 1951, disbanded 1 Apr 1958. | |
Air Task Group THREE | ATG-3 | 1956 Y 1957 NC |
Formed 5 Mar 1955, disbanded 11 Apr 1958. | |
Air Task Group FOUR | ATG-4 | 1956 Z 1957 ND |
Formed 30 Mar 1955, disbanded 19 Jan 1959. | |
Air Task Group ONE EIGHTY ONE | ATG-181 | 1956 I 1957 AM |
Formed 5 Mar 1955, disbanded 15 Aug 1958. | |
Air Task Group ONE EIGHTY TWO | ATG-182 | 1956 O 1957 AN |
Formed 1 Jul 1955, disbanded Jan 1959. | |
Air Task Group TWO ZERO ONE | ATG-201 | 1956 J 1957 AP |
Formed Jun 1955, disbanded Nov 1958. | |
Air Task Group TWO ZERO TWO | ATG-202 | 1956 X 1957 AQ |
Formed 1 Jul 1955, disbanded Jan 1959. |
- Tail codes with a first letter "A" denoted Atlantic Fleet Air Task Groups, while "N" denoted Pacific Fleet Air Task Groups.
Carrier Air Groups (CVG)
[edit]The Carrier Air Group designation (CVG) was in use from 1942 to 20 December 1963.
Prior to 20 Dec 1963 aircraft squadrons which operated from aircraft carriers were organized into Carrier Air Groups (CVG). There were sometimes variations of the Air Group designation adding a modifying letter between the V and the G to indicate the type of aircraft carrier from which the group operated: E-Escort Carrier Air Group (CVEG), L-Light Carrier Air Group (CVLG), B-Large Carrier Air Group (CVBG), A-Medium Carrier Air Group (CVAG). On 20 December 1963 all still existing Carrier Air Groups were redesignated Carrier Air Wings (CVW).
Aircraft squadrons operating from the Navy's first Aircraft Carriers prior to WWII were assigned to that aircraft carrier and were organizationally grouped into that carrier's "air group". On 1 July 1938 the "Carrier Air Group" was formally established as a separate unit and the previously informally named air groups were titled "name of ship Air Group". [1] Air Groups were permanently assigned to a specific Aircraft Carrier and carried that Aircraft Carrier's name (Lexington Air Group, Saratoga Air Group etc...)
- Langley Air Group Squadrons operating from USS Langley (CV-1) from Jan 1923 to June 1936 informally called "Langley Air Group".
- Lexington Air Group Squadrons operating from USS Lexington (CV-2) beginning Aug 1927 informally called "Lexington Air Group". Lexington Air Group officially established 1 Jul 1938, disestablished 8 May 1942 after the loss of USS Lexington in the battle of the Battle of the Coral Sea.
- Saratoga Air Group See CVW-3 in the "Currently Active Wings" section
- Ranger Air Group See CVW-1 in the "Currently Active Wings" section
- Yorktown Air Group Squadrons operating from USS Yorktown (CV-5) from Jan 1938 informally called "Yorktown Air Group". Yorktown Air Group officially established 1 Jul 1938, disestablished 7 Jun 1942 after the loss of USS Yorktown in the Battle of Midway.
- Enterprise Air Group Established 1 July 1938 to fly from USS Enterprise (CV-6), disestablished 1 Sep 1942 after USS Enterprise was damaged during the Battle of the Eastern Solomons and entered Pearl Harbor naval shipyard for repairs.
- Wasp Air Group Established 1 Jul 1939 to fly from USS Wasp (CV-7), disestablished 15 Sep 1942 after the loss of USS Wasp during the Guadalcanal Campaign.
- Hornet Air Group Established 20 Oct 1941 to fly from USS Hornet (CV-8), disestablished 26 Oct 1942 after the loss of USS Hornet in the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands.
With the massive buildup of Aircraft Carriers and Carrier Air Groups after the U.S. entry into WWII, the Carrier Air Group designation scheme was changed to drop the name of the Aircraft Carrier to which the Air Group was assigned and a numbering system was adopted.[1] the number system included the designation "CVG" meaning "Carrier Air Group" followed by a number such as "CVG-3" meaning "Carrier Air Group THREE". By this time CV 1 had been converted to a Seaplane Tender (in 1936), and CV 2, CV 5, CV 7 and CV 8 had been sunk. The Air Groups of the remaining CV 3 and CV 4 were redesignated CVG-3 and CVG-4 respectively and CV 6's "Enterprise Air Group" was disestablished and a new CVG-6 was established and assigned to the ship. In 1943 new CVGs 1, 2, 5, 7 and 8 were established (with no corresponding CVs 1, 2, 5, 7 or 8 as CV 1 had long ago been converted and CV 2, 5, 7 and 8 had been sunk) and the practice of numbering CVGs with the hull number of the Aircraft Carrier to which they were assigned ceased.
Note: the parenthetical (1st), (2nd), (3rd) appended to some Carrier Air Group designations below are not a part of the Group's designation. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than one time during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and to specify which use of the designation is indicated. There is not necessarily any connection between Carrier Air Groups which shared the same designation.
WWII Fleet Carrier Carrier Air Groups (CVG) and Large Carrier (Midway class) Carrier Air Groups (CVBG) (March 1942 to November 1946)
- CVG-1(1st) Established 1 May 1943, disestablished 25 Oct 1945.
- CVG-2(1st) Established 1 Jun 1943, disestablished 9 Nov 1945.
- CVG-3(1st) See CVW-3 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-4(1st) See CVW-1 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-5(1st) See CVW-5 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-6(1st) Established 15 Mar 1943, disestablished 29 Oct 1945.
- CVG-7(1st) Established 3 Jan 1944, disestablished 8 Jul 1946.
- CVG-8(1st) Established 1 Jun 1943, disestablished 23 Nov 1945.
- CVG-9(1st) Established 1 Mar 1942, disestablished 15 Oct 1945.
- CVG-10(1st) Established 16 Apr 1942, disestablished 16 Nov 1945.
- CVG-11(1st) See CVW-11 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-12(1st) Established 9 Jan 1943, disestablished 17 Sep 1945.
- CVG-13(1st) Established 2 Nov 1943, disestablished 20 Oct 1945.
- CVG-14(1st) Established 1 Sep 1943, disestablished 14 Jun 1945.
- CVG-15(1st) Established 1 Sep 1942, disestablished 30 Oct 1945.
- CVG-16(1st) Established 16 Nov 1942, disestablished 6 Nov 1945.
- CVG-17(1st)/CVBG-17 See CVW-6 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-18 See CVW-7 in the "Currently Active Wings" section
- CVG-19(1st) See CVW-19 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-20 Established 15 Oct 1943, redesignated CVAG-9 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-9(2nd) on 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Dec 1949.
- CVBG-74 See CVW-2 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVBG-75 Established 1 Jun 1945, redesignated CVBG-3 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-4(2nd) on 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 8 Jun 1950.
- CVG-80 Established 1 Feb 1944, disestablished 16 Sep 1946.
- CVG-81 Established 1 Mar 1944, redesignated CVAG-13 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-13(2nd) on 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 30 Nov 1949.
- CVG-82 Established 1 Apr 1944, redesignated CVAG-17 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-17(2nd) on 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 15 Sep 1958.
- CVG-83 Established 1 May 1944, disestablished 24 Sep 1945.[2]
- CVG-84 Established 1 May 1944, disestablished 8 Oct 1945.
- CVG-85 Established 15 May 1944, disestablished 27 Sep 1945.
- CVG-86 Established 15 Jun 1944, disestablished 21 Nov 1945.
- CVG-87 Established 1 Jul 1944, disestablished 2 Nov 1945.
- CVG-88 Established 18 Aug 1944, disestablished 29 Oct 1945.
- CVG-89 Established 2 Oct 1944, disestablished 27 Apr 1946.
- CVG-92 Established 2 Dec 1944, disestablished 18 Dec 1946.
- CVG-93 Established 21 Dec 1944, disestablished 30 Apr 1946.
- CVG-94 Established 15 Nov 1944, disestablished 7 Nov 1945.
- CVG-95 Established 2 Jan 1945, disestablished 31 Oct 1945.
- CVG-97 Established 1 Nov 1944, disestablished 31 Mar 1946.
- CVG-98 Established 28 Aug 1944, redesignated CVAG-21 on 15 Nov 1946, disestablished 5 Aug 1947.
- CVG-99 Established 15 Jul 1944, disestablished 8 Sep 1945.
- CVG-100 Established 1 Apr 1944, disestablished 20 Feb 1946.
- CVG-150 Established 22 Jan 1945, disestablished 2 Nov 1946.
- CVG-151 Established 12 Feb 1945, disestablished 6 Oct 1945.
- CVG-152 Established 5 Mar 1945, disestablished 21 Sep 1945.
- CVG-153 Established 26 Mar 1945, redesignated CVAG-15 on 15 Nov 1946, redesignated CVG-15(2nd) on 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Dec 1949.
WWII Light Carrier Carrier Air Groups (CVLG) and Escort Carrier Carrier Air Groups (CVEG) (March 1942 to November 1946)
- CVLG-21 Established 15 May 1943, disestablished 5 Nov 1945.
- CVLG-22 Established 30 Sep 1943, disestablished 15 Sep 1945.
- CVLG-23 Established 16 Nov 1942, disestablished 19 Sep 1945.
- CVLG-24 Established 31 Dec 1942, disestablished 25 Sep 1945.
- CVLG-25/CVEG-25 Established 15 Feb 1943, redesignated CVEG-25 28 Aug 1944, disestablished 20 Sep 1945.
- CVEG-26 Established 4 May 1942, disestablished 13 Nov 1945.
- CVLG-27 Established 1 Mar 1942, disestablished 26 Oct 1945.
- CVLG-28 Established 6 May 1942, disestablished 6 Nov 1945.
- CVLG-29 Established 18 Jul 1942, disestablished 10 Sep 1945.
- CVLG-30 Established 1 Apr 1943, disestablished 12 Sep 1945.
- CVLG-31 Established 1 May 1943, disestablished 28 Oct 1945.
- CVLG-32 Established 1 Jun 1943, disestablished 13 Nov 1945.
- CVEG-33 Established 15 May 1944, disestablished 19 Nov 1945.
- CVLG-34 Established 1 Apr 1945, disestablished 5 Dec 1945.
- CVEG-35 Established 15 Jul 1943, disestablished 19 Nov 1945.
- CVEG-36 Established 15 May 1944, disestablished 28 Jan 1946.
- CVEG-37 Established 15 Jul 1943, disestablished 20 Dec 1945.
- CVLG-38/CVEG-38 Established 16 Jun 1943, redesignated CVEG-38 on 15 Aug 1944, disestablished 31 Jan 1946.
- CVEG-39/CVLG-39 Established 15 Mar 1945, redesignated CVLG-39 on 2 Jul 1945, disestablished 10 Sep 1945.
- CVEG-40 Established 15 Jun 1943, disestablished 19 Nov 1945.
- CVEG-41 Established 26 Mar 1945, redesignated CVEG-1 on 15 Nov 1946, disestablished 1 Sep 1948.
- CVEG-42 Established 15 Jul 1945, redesignated CVEG-2 on 15 Nov 1946, disestablished 1 Sep 1948.
- CVEG-43 Established 9 Aug 1945, disestablished 17 Jun 1946.
- CVLG-43 Established 1 Aug 1943, disestablished 8 Nov 1943.
- CVLG-44 Established 1 Feb 1944, disestablished 18 Sep 1945.
- CVLG-45 Established 1 Apr 1944, disestablished 10 Sep 1945.
- CVLG-46 Established 15 Apr 1944, disestablished 14 Sep 1945.
- CVLG-47 Established 15 Apr 1944, disestablished 21 Sep 1945.
- CVLG-48 Established 1 Jun 1944, disestablished 2 Jan 1945.
- CVEG-49/CVLG-49 Established 10 Aug 1944, redesignated CVLG-49 on 1 Jan 1945, disestablished 27 Nov 1945.
- CVLG-50/CVEG-50 Established 10 Aug 1944, redesignated CVEG-50 on 1 Oct 1944, disestablished 29 Oct 1945.
- CVLG-51 Established 22 Sep 1943, disestablished 13 Nov 1945.
- CVLG-52 Established 1 Sep 1943, disestablished 8 Nov 1943.
- CVEG-60 Established 15 Jul 1943, disestablished 15 Nov 1945.
- CVEG-66 Established 1 Jan 1945, disestablished 6 Jun 1945.
WWII Night Carrier Air Groups (CVG(N), CVLG(N), CVEG(N)) (August 1944 to June 1946)
- CVLG(N)-41 Established 28 Aug 1944, disestablished 25 Feb 1945.
- CVLG(N)-42 Established 28 Aug 1944, disestablished 2 Jan 1945.
- CVLG(N)-43 Established 2 Aug 1944, disestablished 2 Jan 1945.
- CVLG(N)-52/CVG(N)-52 Established 20 Oct 1944, redesignated CVG(N)-52 on 6 Jan 1945, disestablished 15 Dec 1945.
- CVG(N)-53 Established 2 Jan 1945, disestablished 11 Jun 1945.
- CVG(N)-55 Established 1 Mar 1945, disestablished 11 Dec 1945.
- CVEG(N)-63 Established 20 Jun 1945, disestablished 11 Dec 1945.
- CVG(N)-90 Established 25 Aug 1944, disestablished 21 Jun 1946.
- CVG(N)-91 Established 5 Oct 1944, disestablished 21 Jun 1946.
Air Groups established after WWII but before 15 Nov 1946 redesignations[1]
- CVLG-58 Established as CVLG-58 on 19 Mar 1946, redesignated CVLG-1 on 15 Nov 1946, disestablished 1 Sep 1948.
Carrier Air Groups still in existence on 15 November 1946 or established after that date were redesignated or newley designated in accordance with a new Carrier Air Group Designation scheme which added an "A" for Air Groups assigned to medium carriers (Essex class), a "B" for those assigned to large carriers (Midway class), an "L" for those assigned to light carriers (Independence or Siapan classes) and an "E" for those assigned to remaining WWII escort carriers.[1]
Medium Carrier Carrier Air Groups (CVAG) (November 1946 to September 1948)
- CVAG-1 Tail Code "T". See CVW-1 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVAG-3 Tail Code "K". See CVW-3 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVAG-5 Tail Code "S". See CVW-5 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVAG-7 Tail Code "L". See CVW-7 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVAG-9 Tail Code "PS". See CVG-20 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVAG-11 Tail Code "V". See CVW-11 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVAG-13 Tail Code "P". See CVG-81 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVAG-15 Tail Code "A". See CVG-153 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVAG-17 Tail Code "R". See CVG-82 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVAG-19 Tail Code "B". See CVW-19 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVAG-21 Tail Code "RI". See CVG-98 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
Large Carrier Carrier Air Groups (CVBG) (November 1946 to September 1948)
- CVBG-1 Tail Code "M". See CVW-2 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVBG-3 Tail Code "F". See CVBG-75 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVBG-5 Tail Code "C". See CVW-6 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
Light Carrier Carrier Air Groups (CVLG) and Escort Carrier Carrier Air Groups (CVEG) (November 1946 to September 1948)
- CVLG-1 Tail Code "SA". See CLVG-58 in the "Air Groups established after WWII but before 15 Nov 1946" section.
- CVEG-1 Tail Code "BS". See CVEG-41 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVEG-2 Tail Code "SL". See CVEG-42 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVEG-3 Established 21 Apr 1947, disestablished 15 Sep 1948.
Carrier Air Groups still in existence on 1 Sep 1948 were redesignated again in accordance with a new Carrier Air Group designation scheme which redesignated all groups designated CVAG or CVBG back to just "CVG" and disestablished all CVLG and CVEG groups.[1] CVGs which were still in existance on 20 December 1963 were then redisignated "Carrier Air Wings" (CVW)
- CVG-1(2nd) Tail Code "T" (1946), "AB" (1957). See CVW-1 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-2(2nd) Tail Code "M" (1946), "NE" (1957). See CVW-2 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-3(2nd) Tail Code "K" (1946), "AC" (1957). See CVW-3 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-4(2nd) Tail Code "F" (1946). See CVBG-75 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVG-4(3rd) Tail Code "F" (1950), "AD" (1957). See RCVW-4 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-5(2nd) Tail Code "S" (1946), "NF" (1957). See CVW-5 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-6(2nd) Tail Code "C" (1946), "AF" (1957), "AE" (1963). See CVW-6 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-7(2nd) Tail Code "L" (1946), "AG" (1957). See CVW-7 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-8(2nd) Tail Code "E" (1951), "AJ" (1957). See CVW-8 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-9(2nd) Tail Code "PS" (1946), "D" (1948). See CVG-20 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVG-9(3rd) Tail Code "N" (1952), "NG" (1957). See CVW-9 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-10(2nd) Tail Code "P" (1952), "AK" (1957). See CVW-10(1st) in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-11(2nd) Tail Code "V" (1946), "NH" (1957). See CVW-11 in the "Currently Active Wings" section.
- CVG-12(2nd) Tail Code "D" (1950), "NJ" (1957). See RCVW-12 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-13(2nd) Tail Code "P" (1946). See CVG-81 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVG-13(3rd) Tail Code "AE". Established 21 Aug 1961, disestablished 1 Oct 1962.
- CVG-14(2nd) Tail Code "A" (1950), "NK" (1957). See CVW-14 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-15(2nd) Tail Code "A: (1946). See CVG-153 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVG-15(3rd) Tail Code "H" (1951), "NL" (1957). See CVW-15 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-16(2nd) Tail Code "AH". See CVW-16 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-17(2nd) Tail Code "R" (1946), "AL" (1957). See CVG-82 in the "Air Groups established during WWII" section.
- CVG-19(2nd) Tail Code "B" (1946), "NM" (1957). See CVW-19 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-21(1st) Established 15 Sep 1948, disestablished 15 Mar 1949.
- CVG-21(2nd) Tail Code "G" (1955), "NP" (1957). See CVW-21 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-101 Tail Code "A" (1950), "NK" (1957). See CVW-14 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
- CVG-102 Tail Code "D" (1950) "NJ" (1957). See RCVW-12 in the "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section.
Type and Functional Wings
[edit]Type Wings are non-deploying "force provider" wings which supply combat ready squadrons or detachments to Carrier Air Wings or for land based or shipboard (non-aircraft carrier) detachment deployments. Type Wing squadrons which deploy as part of a Carrier Air Wing (CVW) are based with their Type Wing when not deployed, not with their Carrier Air Wing. The exception are those squadrons assigned to the Carrier Air Wing which is forward deployed to Japan, those squadrons are based in Japan with their Carrier Air Wing, not with their Type Wings which are all based in the United States. Type Wings also operate their aircraft's Fleet Replacement Squadrons. Functional Wings are organized to perform a specific function such as logistics, flight test, or patrol and reconnaissance and may include squadrons of various aircraft which perform that specific function.
Type and Functional Wings are not assigned Tail Codes except for the Navy Reserve's Tactical Support Wing which retains the code "AF" from its former existence as Carrier Air Wing Reserve TWENTY and Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (VAQWINGPAC) which adopted the code "NL" from the disestablished CVW-15 for use by the wing's land based "expeditionary" squadrons only. Type Wing squadrons which deploy as a part of a Carrier Air Wing wear the tail code of that Carrier Air Wing. Type Wing squadrons which do not deploy as part of a Carrier Air Wing and Functional Wing squadrons are all assigned tail codes unique to each squadron (except for the aforementioned expeditionary VAQ squadrons). See U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps Aircraft Tail Codes.
Currently Active Type and Functional Wings
[edit]There have been numerous Type and Functional Wings throughout the history of the U. S. Navy. Type and Functional Wings have been established, disestablished or re-designated as the Navy has operated different aircraft through the years. The tables below list the Type and Functional Wings which are active as of April 2022.
Type Wings | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Wing | Insignia | Aircraft | Notes | |
Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet |
STRKFIGHTWINGLANT (SFWL) |
F/A-18E,F | Established as Light Attack Wing ONE (see "Disestablished Type and Functional Wings" section): All east coast based Strike Fighter Squadrons (VFA) flying the F/A-18E or F/A-18F Super Hornet. Based at NAS Oceana, VA. Provides combat ready squadrons to Carrier Air Wings. Operates one F/A-18E,F Fleet Replacement Squadron. | |
Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
STRKFIGHTWINGPAC (SFWP) |
F/A-18E,F | Established as Light Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (see "Disestablished Type and Functional Wings" section): All west coast based Strike Fighter Squadrons (VFA) flying the F/A-18E or F/A-18F Super Hornet. Based at NAS Lemoore, CA., with four squadrons forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni. Provides combat ready squadrons to Carrier Air Wings. Operates one F/A-18E,F Fleet Replacement Squadron. | |
Joint Strike Fighter Wing | JSFWING (JSFW) |
F-35C | Established on 1 October 2018 to assume type wing control of U. S. Navy F-35C aircraft: All Strike Fighter Squadrons (VFA) flying the F-35C Lightning II. Based at NAS Lemoore, CA. Provides combat ready squadrons to Carrier Air Wings. Operates one F-35C Fleet Replacement Squadron. | |
Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
VAQWINGPAC (VWP) |
EA-18G | Established as Electronic Combat Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet on 1 Feb 1993 (see "Disestablished Type and Functional Wings" section): Tail Code "NL" for the wing's land based "expeditionary" squadrons only. All Electronic Attack Squadrons (VAQ). Based at NAS Whidbey Island, WA., with one squadron forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni. Provides combat ready squadrons to Carrier Air Wings and land based "expeditionary" squadrons to support joint force overseas operations. Operates one EA-18G Fleet Replacement Squadron. | |
Airborne Command & Control and Logistics Wing |
ACCLOGWING (ACCLW) |
E-2C E-2D C-2A |
Established as Airborne Early Warning Wing ELEVEN (see "Disestablished Type and Functional Wings" section): All Airborne Command & Control Squadrons (VAW) and Fleet Logistics Support Squadrons (VRC). Headquartered at NAWS Point Mugu, CA., squadrons are based at NAWS Point Mugu, CA., NAS North Island, CA., and NS Norfolk, VA., with one squadron forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni. Provides combat ready E-2C and E-2D squadrons and C-2A detachments to Carrier Air Wings. Operates one E-2C,D and C-2A Fleet Replacement Squadron which is based at NS Norfolk. | |
Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Wing | VRMWING
(VRMW) |
CMV-22B | Established as Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Wing on 1 October 2019: All Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission (VRM) Squadrons. Headquartered at NAS North Island, CA, with one squadron based at NAS North Island with a forward deployed detachment at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan and one future squadron planned at NS Norfolk, VA. Provides combat ready CMV-22B detachments to Carrier Air Wings. Operates one CMV-22B Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS North Island, CA. | |
Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, U. S. Atlantic Fleet |
HELSEACOMBATWINGLANT (HSCWL) |
MH-60S MH-53E MQ-8B |
Established as Helicopter Tactical Wing ONE (see "Disestablished Type and Functional Wings" section): All east coast based Helicopter Sea Combat Squadrons (HSC) and all Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadrons (HM). Based at NS Norfolk, VA. Provides combat ready MH-60S squadrons to Carrier Air Wings, "expeditionary" squadron MH-60S and or MQ-8B detachments to surface force ships and MH-53E squadrons or detachments for worldwide mine countermeasures operations as required. Operates one MH-60S Fleet Replacement Squadron and one MH-53E Fleet Replacement Squadron. | |
Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, U. S. Pacific Fleet |
HELSEACOMBATWINGPAC (HSCWP) |
MH-60S MQ-8B |
Established as Helicopter Tactical Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (see "Disestablished Type and Functional Wings" section): All west coast based Helicopter Sea Combat Squadrons (HSC). Headquartered at NAS North Island, CA., squadrons based at NAS North Island and Anderson AFB, Guam with one squadron forward deployed to NAF Atsugi. Provides combat ready MH-60S squadrons to Carrier Air Wings and "expeditionary" squadron MH-60S and or MQ-8B detachments to surface force ships. Operates one MH-60S Fleet Replacement Squadron. | |
Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, U. S. Atlantic Fleet |
HELMARSTRIKEWINGLANT (HSMWL) |
MH-60R MQ-8B |
Established as Helicopter Sea Control Wing THREE (see "Disestablished Type and Functional Wings" section): All east coast based Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadrons (HSM). Headquartered at NS Mayport, FL., squadrons are based at NS Mayport and NAS Jacksonville, FL. with one forward deployed squadron at Naval Station Rota, Spain. Provides combat ready MH-60R squadrons to Carrier Air Wings and "expeditionary" squadron MH-60R and or MQ-8B detachments to surface force ships. Operates one MH-60R Fleet Replacement Squadron. | |
Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, U. S. Pacific Fleet |
HELMARSTRIKEWINGPAC (HSMWP) |
MH-60R MQ-8B |
Established as Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (see "Disestablished Type and Functional Wings" section): All west coast based Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadrons (HSM). Headquartered at NAS North Island, CA., squadrons based at NAS North Island and MCAS Kaneohe Bay, HI., with two squadrons forward deployed to NAF Atsugi. Provides combat ready MH-60R squadrons to Carrier Air Wings and "expeditionary" squadron MH-60R and or MQ-8B detachments to surface force ships. Operates one MH-60R Fleet Replacement Squadron. |
Functional Wings | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Wing | Insignia | Aircraft | Notes | |
Strategic Communications Wing ONE | STRATCOMWING ONE | E-6B | Established 1 May 1992.[7] Operates two Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadrons (VQ), which fly the Boeing E-6B Mercury airborne command post and communications relay aircraft as Commander United States Strategic Command task force 124. Based at Tinker AFB, OK. Operates one E-6B Fleet Replacement Squadron. | |
Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | PATRECONWING TEN | P-8A EP-3E |
Established as Patrol Wing TEN (second use of the designation) on 1 Jun 1981, redesignated Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN on 1 Jun 1999.[8] Operates all west coast based Patrol (VP) and Fleet Air Reconnaissance (VQ) squadrons. Based at NAS Whidbey Island, WA. | |
Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN | PATRECONWING ELEVEN | P-8A MQ-4C |
Established as Patrol Wing ELEVEN (1st use of the designation) on 15 Aug 1942, redesignated Fleet Air Wing ELEVEN (FAW-11) on 1 Nov 1942, redesignated Patrol Wing ELEVEN (2nd use of the designation) on 30 Jun 1973, redesignated Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN on 26 Mar 1999.[8] Operates all east coast based Patrol (VP) and (VUP) squadrons. Based at NAS Jacksonville, FL. | |
Naval Test Wing Atlantic | NTWL | Various | The operational component of the Naval Air Systems Command's Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft Division. Composed of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Twenty (VX-20), Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Twenty One (HX-21), Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Twenty Three (VX-23), Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Twenty Four (UX-24) and U.S. Naval Test Pilot School (USNTPS). Conducts developmental test and evaluation of Naval aircraft and operates the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School. Based at NAS Patuxent River, MD. | |
Naval Test Wing Pacific | NTWP | Various | The operational component of the Naval Air Systems Command's Naval Air Warfare Center, Weapons Division. Established 8 May 1995. Composed of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Three Zero (VX-30) and Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Three One (VX-31). Conducts developmental test and evaluation of Naval aircraft systems and airborne weapons. Based at NAS Point Mugu, CA. | |
Tactical Support Wing | TSW | F/A-18E,F F/A-18A,C F-5F,N EA-18G |
U. S. Navy Reserve Wing Tail Code "AF". Established as CVWR-20 on 1 Apr 1970 (see "Disestablished Carrier Air Wings" section), redesignated Tactical Support Wing (TSW) on 1 April 2007: Operates three aggressor squadrons (VFC) (one F/A-18 Hornet Squadron and two F-5F/N squadrons) providing air combat training to USN Strike Fighter (VFA) squadrons. Also provides one combat ready VFA F/A-18 Hornet squadron and one combat ready VAQ EA-18G squadron for tasking as required. Headquartered at NAS JRB Fort Worth, TX., squadrons are based at NAS Oceana, VA., NAS Fallon, NV., NAS Key West, FL., NAS JRB New Orleans, LA., and NAS Whidbey Island, WA. | |
Maritime Support Wing | MSW | P-3C MH-60S MH-60R |
U. S. Navy Reserve Wing Established 31 July 2015:[9] Provides two combat ready Patrol Squadrons (VP), one Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) which flies the MH-60S and one Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) flying the MH-60R for tasking as required. Headquartered at NAS North Island, CA., squadrons are based at NAS North Island, CA., NAS Jacksonville, FL., and NAS Whidbey Island, WA. | |
Fleet Logistics Support Wing | FLSW | C-40A C-130T C-20G C-37A C-37B |
U. S. Navy Reserve Wing Established as Reserve Tactical Support Wing (see "Disestablished Type and Functional Wings" section): Operates twelve Fleet Logistics Support squadrons (VR) and an executive transport detachment conducting worldwide logistics support and Navy Unique Fleet Essential Airlift (NUFEA) missions in support of U.S. Navy requirements. Headquartered at NAS JRB Fort Worth, TX., squadrons and detachments are based at JB Pearl Harbor-Hickam, HI., JB Andrews, MD., JB McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ., NAS JB Fort Worth, TX., NAS JB New Orleans, LA., MCAS Kaneohe Bay, HI., NAWS Point Mugu, CA., NAS Oceana, VA., NAS North Island, CA., NAS Jacksonville, FL., and NAS Whidbey Island, WA. |
Disestablished Type and Functional Wings
[edit]Included in the table of disestablished wings below are no longer used former designations of disestablished or currently active wings. For example the currently active Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic Fleet (HSMWINGLANT) was previously designated Helicopter Anti-Submarine (Light) Wing Atlantic Fleet (HSLWINGLANT), before that it was designated Helicopter Anti-Submarine (Light) Wing ONE (HSLWING ONE) and before that it was designated Helicopter Sea Control Wing THREE (HELSEACONWING THREE). HELSEACONWING THREE, HSLWING ONE and HSLWINGLANT are not disestablished wings as the wing still exists as HSMWINGLANT, they are former designations of the currently active wing which are no longer used.
Disestablished Type and Functional Wings, including formerly used designations of disestablished and currently active wings. | |||
---|---|---|---|
Airborne Early Warning and Fighter Wings, Naval Air Force, U. S. Atlantic Fleet | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes | |
Airborne Early Warning Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (First use of the designation) |
AEWWINGLANT (First use) |
Established 1 Jul 1955[10][11] to operate land based Airborne Early Warning (VW) squadrons flying the WV-2/EC-121K Warning Star as part of the "Atlantic Barrier", a seaward extension of the nation's Distant Early Warning line (DEW line). Disestablished by 26 Aug 1965 when the Atlantic Barrier ceased operations.[12] | |
Airborne Early Warning Wing TWELVE |
AEWWING 12 | Established 1 April 1967 when Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron TWELVE (VAW-12) was elevated to wing status and its detachments were established as separate squadrons. Redesignated Airborne Early Warning Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (AEWWINGLANT) on 1 Sep 1993.[13] | |
Airborne Early Warning Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (Second use of the designation) |
AEWWINGLANT (Second use) |
Redesignated from AEWWING 12 on 1 Sep 1993. Disestablished 23 Sep 2005, squadrons were realigned under Airborne Early Warning Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet which was then redesignated Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing (ACCLOGWING) (see currently active Type Wings section). This wing was unrelated to the AEWWINGLANT which existed as part of the "Atlantic Barrier" from 1955 to 1965. | |
Fighter Wing ONE |
FITWING ONE | Established 16 Jul 1971 as the Atlantic Fleet Fighter type wing. Redesignated Fighter Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (FITWINGLANT) on 1 Sep 1993.[13] | |
Fighter Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet |
FITWINGLANT | Redesignated from FITWING ONE on 1 Sep 1993. Disestablished 1 Oct 2004, remaining F-14 Tomcat squadrons realigned under Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (STKFITWINGLANT) (see currently active Type Wings section) and eventually transitioned to the F/A-18E or F Super Hornet. | |
Airborne Early Warning and Fighter Wings, Naval Air Force, U. S. Pacific Fleet | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes | |
Airborne Early Warning Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (First use of the designation) |
AEWWINGPAC (First use) |
Established 10 Jan 1956[14] to operate land based Airborne Early Warning (VW) squadrons flying the WV-2 Warning Star as part of the "Pacific Barrier", a seaward extension of the nation's Distant Early Warning line (DEW line). Disestablished 1 Feb 1960 when the wing and its squadrons were merged into a single squadron designated AEW Barrier Squadron Pacific (AEWBARRONPAC).[15] | |
Airborne Early Warning Wing ELEVEN |
AEWWING 11 | Established 20 April 1967 when Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron ELEVEN (VAW-11) was elevated to wing status and its detachments were established as separate squadrons. Combined with Fleet Air Miramar July 1973 to form Fighter, AEW Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (FITAEWWINGPAC) | |
Fighter AEW Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
FITAEWWINGPAC | Established July 1973 by combining Fleet Air Miramar and AEWWING 11. Disestablished on 30 Sep 1993.[16] AEWWINGPAC was established to assume control of the wing's VAW squadrons and FITWINGPAC to assume control of the wing's VF squadrons. | |
Airborne Early Warning Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (Second use of the designation) |
AEWWINGPAC (Second use) |
Established 1 Aug 1993[16] to assume control of the disestablishing FITAEWWINGPAC's VAW squadrons. Redesignated Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing (ACCLOGWING) 23 Sep 2005 (see currently active Type Wings section). This wing was unrelated to the AEWWINGPAC which existed as part of the "Pacific Barrier" from 1956 to 1960. | |
Fighter Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
FITWINGPAC | Established 1 Aug 1993[16] to assume control of the disestablishing FITAEWWINGPAC's VF squadrons. Disestablished 17 Dec 1996,[17] remaining F-14 Tomcat squadrons were realigned under Fighter Wing, U. S. Atlantic Fleet (FITWINGLANT). | |
Attack and Electronic Warfare Wings, Naval Air Force, U. S. Atlantic Fleet | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes | |
Heavy Attack Wing ONE |
HATWING ONE | Established 1 Feb 1951[18] to operate Heavy Attack (VAH) squadrons flying nuclear bomber AJ aircraft. Squadrons ultimately transitioned to A-3 and A-5 aircraft. Redesignated Reconnaissance Attack Wing ONE (RECONATKWING ONE) in Aug 1964[19] with the end of the U.S. Navy's nuclear bomber role and the conversion of the A-5 Vigilante nuclear bomber squadrons (VAH) to RA-5C Vigilante reconnaissance squadrons (RVAH). | |
Reconnaissance Attack Wing ONE |
RECONATKWING ONE | Disestablished 7 Jan 1980 with the retirement of the RA-5C Vigilante and disestablishment of RVAH squadrons.[20] | |
Light Attack Wing ONE |
LATWING ONE | Established 1 Jun 1970[21] as the type wing for "light" Attack (VA) squadrons flying the A-7. Redesignated Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (STRKFITWINGLANT) on 1 Sep 1993[13] (see currently active Type Wings section) with replacement of the A-7 Corsair II by the F/A-18 Hornet in the Atlantic Fleet. | |
Medium Attack Wing ONE |
MATWING ONE | Established 1 Oct 1971 as the type wing for Atlantic Fleet "medium" Attack (VA) squadrons flying the A-6 Intruder. Redesignated Attack Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (ATTACKWINGLANT) on 1 Sep 1993.[13] | |
Attack Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet |
ATTACKWINGLANT | Redesignated from MATWING ONE on 1 Sep 1993. Disestablished on 30 Jun 1997[22] with the retirement of the A-6 Intruder. | |
Attack and Electronic Warfare Wings, Naval Air Force, U. S. Pacific Fleet | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes | |
Light Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
LATWINGPAC | Established from Fleet Air Lemoore 1 Jul 1973 as the type wing for "light" Attack (VA) squadrons flying the A-7. Redesignated Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (STRKFITWINGPAC) on 5 Apr 1991[23] (see currently active Type Wings section) with replacement of the A-7 Corsair II by the F/A-18 Hornet in the Pacific Fleet. | |
Heavy Attack Wing TWO |
HATWING TWO | Established 2 July 1956.[24] Operated Heavy Attack (VAH) squadrons flying nuclear bomber A-3 aircraft. Disestablished 30 Jun 1959,[25] squadrons realigned under Fleet Air Whidbey. | |
Tactical Electronic Warfare Wing THIRTEEN |
VAQWING 13 | Established 1 Sep 1968 at NAS Alameda to oversee administrative, operations and maintenance support for the new VAQ squadrons.[26] Moved to NAS Whidbey Island with the decision to base EA-6B sqdns at NASWI. Disestablished 1 Jul 1972.[27] | |
Medium Attack, Tactical Electronic Warfare Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
MATVAQWINGPAC | Established from Fleet Air Whidbey in 1973 as the type wing for both "medium" Attack (VA) squadrons flying the A-6 Intruder and Tactical Electronic Warfare (VAQ) squadrons flying the EA-6B Prowler. Disestablished 31 Jan 1993.[28] ATTACKWINGPAC and VAQWINGPAC were established to assume control of the wing's Attack (VA) and Tactical Electronic Warfare (VAQ) squadrons respectively. | |
Electronic Combat Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
VAQWINGPAC | Established 1 Feb 1993[28] to assume control of the disestablished MATVAQWINGPAC's Tactical Electronic Warfare (VAQ) squadrons. Renamed Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (VAQWINGPAC) in 1998 (see currently active Type Wings section). | |
Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
ATTACKWINGPAC | Established 1 Feb 1993[28] to assume control of the disestablished MATVAQWINGPAC's Attack (VA) squadrons. Disestablished on 30 Apr 1997[22] with the retirement of the A-6E Intruder. | |
Anti-Submarine and Sea Control Wings, Naval Air Force, U. S. Atlantic Fleet | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes | |
Air Antisubmarine Wing ONE |
AIRANTISUBWING ONE | Established 1 Apr 1973 as the Atlantic Fleet type wing for Air Antisubmarine (VS) squadrons flying the S-2 Tracker. Squadrons ultimately transitioned the S-3 Viking. Redesignated Sea Strike Wing ONE (SEASTRIKEWING ONE) May 1987. | |
Sea Strike Wing ONE |
SEASTRIKEWING ONE | Redesignated from Air Antisubmarine Wing ONE continuing as the type wing for Air Antisubmarine (VS) squadrons flying the S-3 Viking. Redesignated Sea Control Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (SEACONWINGLANT) on 1 Sep 1993.[13] | |
Sea Control Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet |
SEACONWINGLANT | Redesignated from Sea Strike Wing ONE on 1 Sep 1993 when the Air Antisbumbarine (VS) squadrons were redesignated to Sea Control (VS) squadrons. Disestablished 30 Jan 2009 with retirement of the S-3 Viking. | |
Helicopter Sea Control Wing ONE |
HELSEACONWING ONE | Established Jun 1973 as the type wing for Atlantic Fleet Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) (HSL) squadrons flying the SH-2 Sea Sprite. Disestablished 1 Jul 1992,[29] squadrons re-aligned under Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) Wing ONE (HSLWING ONE). | |
Helicopter Sea Control Wing THREE |
HELSEACONWING THREE | Established Mar 1985 as the type wing for Atlantic Fleet Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) (HSL) squadrons flying the then new SH-60B Seahawk. Redesignated Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) Wing ONE (HSLWING ONE) on 1 Jul 1992.[30] | |
Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) Wing ONE |
HSLWING ONE | Redesignated from Helicopter Sea Control Wing THREE to Helicopter Antisubmarine Wing (Light) Wing ONE on 1 Jul 1992. Operated as type wing for HSL squadrons flying SH-2 Sea Sprites and HSL squadrons flying SH-60B Seahawks. Redesignated Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (HSLWINGLANT) on 1 Sep 1993.[13] | |
Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet |
HSLWINGLANT | Redesignated from Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) Wing ONE on 1 Sep 1993. Type wing for HSL SH-2 Sea Sprite squadrons and SH-60B Seahawk squadrons until the last SH-2 squadron was disestablished in 1994, then continued as the SH-60B Atlantic Fleet type wing. Redesignated Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (HSMWINGLANT) on 1 Jul 2006[30] with the transition of the HSL squadrons flying the SH-60B Seahawk to HSM squadrons flying the MH-60R Seahawk (see currently active Type Wings section). | |
Helicopter Antisubmarine Wing ONE |
HSWING ONE | Established 1 Apr 1973 as the type wing for Atlantic Fleet Helicopter Antisubmarine (HS) squadrons flying the SH-3 Sea King. Squadrons ultimately transitioned to the SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawk. Redesignated from Helicopter Antisubmarine Wing ONE to Helicopter Antisubmarine Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (HSWINGLANT) on 1 Sep 1993.[13] | |
Helicopter Antisubmarine Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet |
HSWINGLANT | Redesignated from Helicopter Antisubmarine Wing ONE on 1 Sep 1993 continuing as the Atlantic Fleet SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawk type wing. Disestablished 1 Apr 2005. Squadrons were realigned under Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (HSCWINGLANT) (see currently active Type Wings section) in anticipation of their transitions to the MH-60S Seahawk and redesignation to Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) squadrons. | |
Anti-Submarine and Sea Control Wings, Naval Air Force, U. S. Pacific Fleet | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes | |
Anti Submarine Warfare Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
ASWWINGPAC | Established from Fleet Air San Diego in July 1973. The wing consisted of all Pacific Fleet fixed wing and rotary wing ASW squadrons and included fleet logistics and service support squadrons as well. Disestablished on 30 Sep 1993.[31] SECONWINGPAC, HSWINGPAC, HSLWINGPAC and HELTACWINGPAC were established to assume control of the wing's Sea Control (VS), Helicopter Antisubmarine (HS), Helicopter Antisubmarine (light) (HSL) and Helicopter Combat Support (HC)/Helicopter Mine Coutermeasures (HM) squadrons respectively. | |
Sea Control Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
SEACONWINGPAC | Established 22 Apr 1993[31] to assume control of Sea Control (VS) squadrons from the disestablishing ASWWINGPAC. Disestablished 19 Aug 2005, remaining squadrons were re-aligned under SECONWINGLANT. | |
Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
HSLWINGPAC | Established 5 May 1993[32] to assume control of Helicopter Antisubmarine (Light) (HSL) squadrons from the disestablishing ASWWINGPAC. Redesignated Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (HSMWINGPAC) on 1 Apr 2005 with the transition of the HSL squadrons flying the SH-60B Seahawk to HSM squadrons flying the MH-60R Seahawk (see currently active Type Wings section). | |
Helicopter Antisubmarine Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
HSWINGPAC | Established 1 July 1993[32] to assume control of Helicopter Antisubmarine (HS) squadrons from the disestablishing ASWWINGPAC. Disestablished in Apr 2005. Squadrons were realigned under Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (HSCWINGPAC) (see currently active Type Wings section) in anticipation of their transitions to the MH-60S Seahawk and redesignation to Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) squadrons. | |
Logistics and Service Support Wings, Naval Air Force, U. S. Atlantic Fleet | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes | |
Fleet Tactical Support Wing ONE |
FLTTACSUPWING ONE | Established 1 Jul 1973 to operate Atlantic Fleet fixed wing logistics and utility squadrons.[4] Disestablished 1 Oct 1989 with the transfer of the air logistics and utility roles to the U. S. Navy Reserve and contracted services.[33] | |
Helicopter Tactical Wing ONE |
HELTACWING ONE | Established 1 Oct 1982 to operate Atlantic Fleet Helicopter Mine Countermeasures (HM) squadrons and Helicopter Combat Support (HC) squadrons flying vertical replenishment (VERTREP) and utility helicopters. Redesignated Helicopter Tactical Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (HELTACWINGLANT) on 1 Sep 1993.[13] | |
Helicopter Tactical Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet |
HELTACWINGLANT | Redesignated from Helicopter Tactical Wing ONE. Continued to operate HC and HM squadrons. Redesignated Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (HSCWINGLANT) 1 Apr 2005 (see currently active Type Wings section) with the redesignation of Helicopter Combat Support (HC) squadrons to Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) squadrons and their transitions to the MH-60S Seahawk. | |
Logistics and Service Support Wings, Naval Air Force, U. S. Pacific Fleet | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes | |
Helicopter Tactical Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet |
HELTACWINGPAC | Established on 1 July 1993[32] to assume control of Helicopter Mine Countermeasures (HM) squadrons and Helicopter Combat Support (HC) squadrons flying vertical replenishment (VERTREP) and utility helicopters from the disestablished ASWWINGPAC. Redesignated Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet (HSCWINGPAC) in Apr 2005 (see currently active Type Wings section) with the redesignation of Pacific Fleet Combat Support (HC) squadrons to Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) squadrons and their transitions to the MH-60S Seahawk. | |
US Navy Reserve Functional Wings | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes | |
Helicopter Wing Reserve |
HELWINGRES | Tail Code "NW" adopted from the disestablished CVSGR EIGHTY: Established Jun 1975, disestablished 31 May 2007.[34] Remaining reserve helicopter squadrons continue to use tail code NW even though the wing no longer exists. | |
Reserve Tactical Support Wing | RESTACSUPWING | Established in 1974, redesignated Fleet Logistics Support Wing (FLSW) in 1983[35] (see currently active Functional Wings section). This wing and the Navy Reserve's current Tactical Support Wing are unrelated as this wing is the current Fleet Logistics Support Wing and the current Tactical Support Wing is the designation of the former Carrier Air Wing Reserve TWENTY (CVWR-20) | |
Fleet Air Wings, Patrol Wings, and Patrol and Reconnaissance Wings | |||
Patrol Wings were first established in Oct 1937. All Patrol Wings in existence on 1 Nov 1942 were redesignated Fleet Air Wings. Additional Fleet Air Wings were established during WWII and as late as 1963.[36] All Fleet Air Wings still in existence in 1973 were redesignated Patrol Wings except for FAW-10 (the second to use the designation) which was disestablished. All Patrol Wings still in existence in 1999 were redesignated Patrol and Reconnaissance Wings. | |||
Wing | Insignia | Notes[8] | |
Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ONE | PATRECONWING ONE |
(FAW-1) (PatReconWing 1) |
Established as Patrol Wing 1 (first use of the designation) on 1 Oct 1937, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 1 on 1 Nov 1942, redesignated Patrol Wing ONE (second use of the designation) on 30 Jun 1973, redesignated Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ONE on 1 June 1999. Ceased operations as a functional wing after 2000 and was redesignated Patrol and Reconnaissance Force 7th Fleet/CTF-72 exercising operational control over VP squadrons deployed to 7th Fleet. |
Patrol Wing 2 | PATWING TWO | (FAW-2) (PatWing 2) |
Established as Patrol Wing 2 (first use of the designation) on 1 Oct 1937, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 2 on 1 Nov 1942, redesignated Patrol Wing TWO (2nd use of the designation) on 30 Jun 1973, disestablished on 8 Jun 1993. |
Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TWO | PATRECONWING TWO | Established as Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TWO in Oct 2003 (adopted insignia from previously disestablished Patrol Wing TWO),[37] disestablished on 1 May 2017[38] | |
Fleet Air Wing 3 | FAW 3 | Established as Patrol Wing 3 on 1 Oct 1937, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 3 on 1 Nov 1942, disestablished on 30 Jun 1971. | |
Fleet Air Wing 4 | FAW 4 | (PatWing 4) (FAW-4) |
Established as Patrol Wing 4 (first use of the designation) on 1 Oct 1937, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 4 on 1 Nov 1942, disestablished on 30 Jun 1970. |
Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing FIVE | PATRECONWING FIVE | Established as Patrol Wing 5 (first use of the designation) on 1 Oct 1937, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 5 on 1 Nov 1942, redesignated Patrol Wing FIVE (second use of the designation) on 1 Jul 1973, redesignated Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing FIVE on 26 Mar 1999, disestablished in 2009. | |
Fleet Air Wing 6 (First use) |
FAW 6 (1st) | Established as Fleet Air Wing 6 (first use of the designation) on 2 Nov 1942, disestablished on 1 Dec 1945. | |
Fleet Air Wing 6 (Second use) |
FAW 6 (2nd) | Established as Fleet Air Wing 6 (second use of the designation) on 4 Aug 1950, disestablished on 1 Jul 1972. | |
Fleet Air Wing 7 | FAW 7 | Established as Patrol Wing Support Force on 1 Mar 1941, redesignated Patrol Wing 7 on 1 Jul 1941, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 7 (FAW-7) on 1 Nov 1942, disestablished on 4 Aug 1945. | |
Fleet Air Wing 8 (first use) |
(FAW 8) (1st) | Established as Patrol Wing 8 on 8 Jul 1941, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 8 (first use of the designation) on 1 Nov 1942, disestablished on 3 Jul 1946. | |
Fleet Air Wing 8 (second use) |
(FAW 8) (2nd) | Established as Fleet Air Wing 8 (second use of the designation) on 1 Jul 1965, disestablished on 1 Aug 1972. | |
Fleet Air Wing 9 | FAW 9 | Established as Patrol Wing 9 in Apr 1942, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 9 on 1 Nov 1942, disestablished on 19 Jul 1945. | |
Fleet Air Wing 10 (First use) |
FAW 10 (1st) | Established as Patrol Wing 10 (first use of the designation) in Dec 1940, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 10 (first use of the designation), disestablished on 7 Jun 1947. Note: the current Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN does not share a lineage with this wing, that wing was established in 1981 as Patrol Wing TEN (second use of the designation). | |
Fleet Air Wing 10 (Second use) |
FAW 10 (2nd) | Established as Fleet Air Wing 10 (second use of the designation) on 29 Jun 1963, disestablished on 30 Jun 1973. | |
Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN | PATRECONWING ELEVEN | (FAW-11) (PatWing 11) |
Established as Patrol Wing 11 (1st use of the designation) on 15 Aug 1942, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 11 on 1 Nov 1942, redesignated Patrol Wing ELEVEN (2nd use of the designation) on 30 Jun 1973, redesignated Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN on 26 Mar 1999. Still exists as Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN. |
Fleet Air Wing 12 | FAW 12 | Established as Patrol Wing 12 on 16 Sep 1942, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 12 on 1 Nov 1942, disestablished on 14 Jul 1945. | |
Fleet Air Wing 14 | FAW 14 | Established as Patrol Wing 14 on 15 Oct 1942, redesignated Fleet Air Wing 14 on 1 Nov 1942, disestablished in 1969. | |
Fleet Air Wing 15 | FAW 15 | Established as FAW-15 on 1 Dec 1942, disestablished on 28 Jul 1945. | |
Fleet Air Wing 16 | FAW 16 | Established as FAW-16 on 16 Feb 1943, disestablished on 27 Jun 1945. | |
Fleet Air Wing 17 | FAW 17 | Established as FAW-17 on 15 Sep 1943, disestablished on 2 Jan 1946. | |
Fleet Air Wing 18 | FAW 18 | Established as FAW-18 on 5 May 1945, disestablished on 30 Jun 1947. | |
Reserve Patrol Wing | RESPATWING | Reserve Patrol Wing Atlantic and Reserve Patrol Wing Pacific (later dual designated as Reserve Patrol Wing Pacific/Patrol Wing FOUR (second use of the designation)) which had both been established in 1970 were consolidated into a single wing designated Reserve Patrol Wing in January 1999, disestablished in June 2007.[37] |
Training Air Wings (TAW)
[edit]See Naval Air Training Command
Training Air Wings train Student Naval Aviators or Student Naval Flight Officers of the U. S. Navy, U. S. Marine Corps and U. S. Coast Guard culminating in their designation as Naval Aviators or Naval Flight Officers. Prior to the establishment of Training Air Wings Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard flight training was conducted by Training Squadrons organized under the Flag Officers "Chief of Naval Air Basic Training" and "Chief of Naval Air Advanced Training" which were aligned under the "Chief of Naval Air Training. Those Flag Officer level commands were disestablished with the establishment of the Training Air Wings which then and still today report directly to the Chief of Naval Air Training.[39][40]
Currently Active Training Air Wings
[edit]Training Air Wings | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wing | Tail Code | Insignia | Aircraft | Notes | |
Training Air Wing ONE |
TRAWING ONE (TW-1) |
A | T-45C | Established on 1 Aug 1971[41] to control training activities at NAS Meridian, MS.[42] Operates two Training Squadrons (VT) conducting Student Naval Aviator Advanced Jet training. | |
Training Air Wing TWO |
TRAWING TWO (TW-2) |
B | T-45C | Established on 1 Aug 1971[41] to control training activities at NAS Kingsville, TX.[42] Operates two Training Squadrons (VT) conducting Student Naval Aviator Advanced Jet training. | |
Training Air Wing FOUR |
TRAWING FOUR (TAW-4) |
G | T-6B T-44C |
Established in Mar 1972[43] to control training activities at NAS Corpus Christi, TX.[42][44] Operates four Training Squadrons (VT), two conducting Student Naval Aviator Primary Flight training in the T-6B Texan II and two conducting Student Naval Aviator Advanced Multi-Engine training in the T-44C Pegasus. | |
Training Air Wing FIVE |
TRAWING FIVE (TAW-5) |
E | T-6B TH-57B TH-57C |
Established 9 Jan 1972 at NAS Whiting Field to control training activities at NAS Whiting Field, FL and NAS Ellyson Field, FL[44] (training operations ceased at Ellyson Field in Dec 1973). Operates three Training Squadrons (VT) conducting Student Naval Aviator Primary Flight training in the T-6B Texan II and three Helicopter Training Squadrons (HT) conducting Student Naval Aviator Advanced Helicopter training in the TH-57B and C Sea Ranger. | |
Training Air Wing SIX |
TRAWING SIX (TAW-6) |
F | T-6A T-45C |
Established 1 Feb 1972 to control training activities at NAS Pensacola, FL.[44] Operates three Training Squadrons (VT) conducting all stages of Student Naval Flight Officer training in the T-6A Texan II, T-45C Goshawk and the Multi-Crew Simulator. |
Disestablished Training Air Wings
[edit]Disestablished Training Air Wings | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Wing | Tail Code | insignia | Notes | |
Training Air Wing THREE |
TRAWING THREE (TW-3) |
C | Established on 1 Oct 1971[41] to control training activities at NAS Chase Field, TX. Disestablished 31 Aug 1992 with the closure of NAS Chase Field and disestablishment of subordinate squadrons.[45] | |
Training Air Wing SEVEN |
TRAWING SEVEN (TAW-7) |
Established 1 Feb 1972 to control training activities at NAS Saufely Field, FL.[44] Disestablished in 1976 with deactivation of the Saufley Field airfield and disestablishment of subordinate squadrons.[46] | ||
Training Air Wing EIGHT |
TRAWING EIGHT (TAW-8) |
Established in 1972 to control training activities at NAS Glynco, GA.[47][44] Disestablished in 1974 with closure of NAS Glynco.[48] Subordinate squadron was relocated to NAS Pensacola and realigned under TRAWING SIX. |
See also
[edit]- List of United States Navy aircraft squadrons
- List of inactive United States Navy aircraft squadrons
Notes
[edit]- ^ a b c d e f g h i "Air Wings of the US Navy". www.wings-aviation.ch.
- ^ a b c Roy A. Grossnick (ed.), United States Naval Aviation 1910–1995, Appendix 15, accessed May 2012
- ^ Defense News[dead link]
- ^ a b c d Naval Aviation News Feb 1974 pg 19
- ^ a b Naval Aviation News Feb 1971 pg 15
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I pg 30
- ^ Naval Aviation News July–August 1992 pg4
- ^ OPNAVNOTE 5400 dated 9 July 2015
- ^ "Atlantic Barrier". Archived from the original on 16 December 2001.
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1957 pg 1
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1966 pg 10
- ^ a b c d e f g h Naval Aviation News May/June 1994 pg 6
- ^ Naval Aviation News Jan 1957 pg 3
- ^ Naval Aviation News April 1960 pg 38
- ^ a b c Naval Aviation News May/June 1994 pg 8
- ^ "Oceana Commands". militarynews.com.
- ^ United States Naval Aviation 1910–2010 chap 7 pg 262
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1965 pg10
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1980 pg 4
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1971 pg14
- ^ a b Naval Aviation News Sep/Oct 1997 pg22
- ^ Naval Aviation News July/Aug 1993 pg 6
- ^ Naval Aviation News Jan 1957 pg 5
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1960 pg10
- ^ The Hook; Journal of Naval Aviation Spring 2002 pg 23
- ^ United States Naval Aviation 1910–1995 pg 297. Roy A. Grossnick, Mark Llewellyn Evans, published June 2001
- ^ a b c Naval Aviation News May/Jun 1993 pg 7
- ^ "Disestablished Atlantic Fleet Navy Helicopter Squadrons – Naval Helicopter Association Historical Society". nhahistoricalsociety.org.
- ^ a b "Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, Atlantic – Naval Helicopter Association Historical Society". nhahistoricalsociety.org.
- ^ a b Naval Aviation News May/Jun 1994 pg 8
- ^ a b c Naval Aviation News May/Jun 1994 pg 9
- ^ Naval Aviation News November–December 1989
- ^ "Helicopter Wing Reserve – Disestablished – Naval Helicopter Association Historical Society". nhahistoricalsociety.org.
- ^ http://www.public.navy.mil/navres/cflsw/Pages/default.aspx [dead link]
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol II App 13
- ^ OPNAVNOTE 5400 dated 10 May 2016
- ^ Naval Aviation News Oct 1971, pg 22
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1972 pg 17
- ^ a b c Naval Aviation News Feb 1972 pg 18
- ^ a b c Naval Aviation News October 1971 pg 23
- ^ "Training Air Wing Four". www.cnatra.navy.mil.
- ^ a b c d e Naval Aviation News April 1972 pg 3
- ^ Naval Aviation News November–December 1992 pg 7
- ^ Naval Aviation News June 1977 pg 34.
- ^ Naval Aviation News Oct 1971 pg 23
- ^ Naval Aviation News November 1974 pg 29
References
[edit]- Roy A. Grossnick (ed.), United States Naval Aviation 1910–1995, [1]
Aircraft wings list Navy aircraft wings
Disestablished and Deactivated squadrons
[edit]Disestablished or Deactivated Fixed Wing (V) squadrons and designations no longer in use
[edit]Navy fixed wing squadron designations start with the letter "V" because in 1920 with issuance of General Order 541 two overall types of aircraft were identified and assigned permanent letters; lighter than air types were identified by the letter Z and heavier than air types by the letter V.[1] The use of letter abbreviations for squadrons was promulgated in the "Naval Aeronautic Organization for Fiscal Year 1923" which is the first known record associating the abbreviated Aircraft Class Designations (V-heavier than air, Z-lighter than air, and letters designating role) with abbreviated squadron designations.[2] In 1948 the Navy established its first two operational helicopter squadrons designating them as Helicopter Utility Squadrons. It departed from the established "V" heavier than air and "Z" lighter than air system and instead gave them the designation "HU" (H-Helicopter, U-Utility). From that point on heavier than air squadrons which flew rotary wing aircraft were designated with the first letter of "H" while heavier than air squadrons flying fixed wing aircraft retained the original heaver than air "V" then associating the "V" only with fixed wing squadrons. There were two exceptions during the history of Naval Aviation that violated the rule, they were; the use of "RVAH" to denote Reconnaissance Attack Squadrons which operated the RA-5C Vigilante during the 1960s and 1970s and the use of "RVAW" from 1967 to 1983 to designate the Airborne Early Warning (VAW) Fleet Replacement Squadrons.
Squadron designations below are listed in alphabetical order
Disestablished Attack (VA) squadrons and VA designations no longer in use
[edit]On 15 November 1946 the VA designation was created when the remaining Bombing (VB) and Torpedo (VT) squadrons from WWII were redesignated "Attack" squadrons (VA)[3] and the VB and VT designations ceased to exist.[4] The VA designation remained in use until 1996 when the last Attack Squadron completed transition to the F/A-18 Hornet and was redesignated a Strike Fighter (VFA) squadron. The VA designation has not been used since 1996. During the life of the VA designation there were three different periods during which the rules governing the squadron designation system differed creating three separate and distinct designation schemes over time. These three different designation scheme periods resulted in cases where a singe squadron carried multiple designations during its existence, and in the occurrence of multiple uses of the same designation for unrelated squadrons.
The list below is not a list of disestablished squadrons, it is a list of squadron designations which are no longer in use. In many cases a single squadron carried multiple designations between the time it was established and the time it was disestablished, therefore in many cases multiple designations below belonged to a single squadron. Most of the squadron designations in the list belonged to squadrons which have been disestablished, but also included are former designations of some VFA squadrons which are still active. Note that many squadrons were designated as both VA and VF squadrons at different times during their existence. This list includes all "VA" designations which have been used by US Navy aircraft squadrons except for those assigned to USNR squadrons which existed before 1970 unless they were activated, in which case they are included.[5]
Note: The parenthetical (first use), (second use), (1st), (2nd), (3rd) etc... appended to some designations in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[a] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[6] | Disestablished as (or current designation) |
Disestablished (or Deactivated) Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
On 15 November 1946, a major change to the Navy's Carrier Air Group and aircraft squadron designation system was instituted. At that time the Carrier Air Group designation (CVG) of WWII was modified to identify to which type of aircraft carrier the air group was assigned by the addition of a letter "A" or "B" between the "V" and the "G" in the CVG designation. The CVLG (light carrier air group) and CVEG (escort carrier air group) designations of WWII were retained creating four different types of Carrier Air Group. CVAGs were assigned to Essex class carriers (sometimes called "Attack" carriers), CVBGs were assigned to the large Midway class carriers (sometimes called "Battle" carriers), CVLGs were assigned to "light" Independence or Siapan class carriers, and CVEGs to remaining small WWII "escort carriers". At the same time, aircraft squadron designations were changed to include an "A", "B", "L" or "E" after the designation number to denote to which type of Carrier Air Group the squadron was assigned.[7] CVAGs and CVBGs were designated with odd numbers and each was assigned two VA squadrons with the first carrying the Air Group's number and the second the next consecutive even number (CVAG-1: VA-1A, VA-2A; CVBG-1: VA-1B, VA-2B; CVAG-7: VA-7A, VA-8A; CVAG-11; VA-11A, VA-12A etc...) | |||||||
VA-1A | Top Hatters | SB2C F4U |
Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920 VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921 VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921 VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927 VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941 VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943 VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949 VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001 VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001-present |
VFA-14 | Not applicable, still exists | Oldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy 1st VA squadron of CVAG-1 | |
VA-1B | unknown | SB2C AD |
VB-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-1B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-24: 1 Sep 1948-1 Dec 1949 VF-24(2nd): 1 Dec 1949-9 Mar 1959 VF-211(3rd): 9 Mar 1959-Aug 2006 VFA-211: Aug 2006-present |
VFA-211 | Not applicable, still exists | 1st VA squadron of CVBG-1 | |
VA-1E | unknown | TBM | VT-41: 26 Mar 1946-15 Nov 1946 VA-1E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 |
VA-1E | 1 September 1948 | Only VA squadron of CVEG-1. CVEG-1 (comprised of VF-1E and VA-1E) was redesignated Composite Squadron 21 (VC-21) on 1 September 1948 | |
VA-1L | unknown | TBM XTB2D AD |
VT-58: 19 Mar 1946-15 Nov 1946 VA-1L: 15 Nov 1946-20 Nov 1948 |
VA-1L | 20 November 1948 | Only VA squadron of CVLG-1. Assets merged with VF-1L to form the first squadron designated VX-3 | |
VA-2A | unknown | TBM | VT-4: 10 Jan 1942-15 Nov 1946 VA-2A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-15(1st): 2 Aug 1948-1 Jun 1969 |
VA-15 (1st) | 1 June 1969 | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-1 | |
VA-2B | unknown | SB2C, SBW TBM SNJ AD |
VT-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-2B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-25(1st): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-65(2nd): 1 Jul 1959-31 Mar 1993 |
VA-65 (2nd) | 31 March 1993 | 2nd VA squadron of CVBG-1 | |
VA-2E | unknown | TBM | VT-42: 19 Jul 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-2E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VC-22(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-20 Apr 1950 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-22(1st): 20 Apr 1950-1 Jun 1956 (same sqdn listed in VS section) |
VS-22 (2nd) | 1 June 1956 | Only VA squadron of CVEG-2 | |
VA-3A | Black Panthers | SB2C AD |
VB-3B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-4: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-3: 1 Jul 1939-15 Nov 1946 VA-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VA-34(1st): 7 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VA-35(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-31 Jan 1995 |
VA-35 (2nd) | 31 January 1995 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-3. The "diving panther" insignia was created by VB-3B and remained in use through the entire life of the squadron through all of its redesignations. | |
VA-3B | unknown | SB2C AD |
VB-75: 1 Jun 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-3B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-44(1st): 1 Sep 1948-8 Jun 1950 |
VA-44 (1st) | 8 June 1950 | 1st VA squadron of CVBG-3 | |
VA-3E | unknown | TBM | VA-3E: 21 Apr 1947-1 Sep 1948 VC-23(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-23 Apr 1950 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-23: 23 Apr 1959-27 Sep 1968 (same sqdn listed in VS section) |
VS-23 | 27 September 1968 | Only VA squadron of CVEG-3 | |
VA-4A | Dragons | TBM | VT-2: 1925-1 Jul 1927 VT-2B: 1 Jul 1927- 1 Jul 1937 VT-3: 1 Jul 1937-15 Nov 1946 VA-4A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VA-35(1st): 7 Aug 1948-7 Nov 1949 |
VA-35 (1st) | 7 November 1949 | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-3 | |
VA-4B | Fish Hawks | SB2C AD |
VT-75: 1 Jun 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-4B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-45(1st): 1 Sep 1948-8 Jun 1950 |
VA-45 (1st) | 8 June 1950 | 2nd VA squadron of CVBG-3 | |
VA-5A | unknown | SB2C F4U |
VS-2B: 3 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1937 (VS = "Scouting Squadron") VS-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Mar 1943 VB-4: 1 Mar 1943-15 Jul 1943 VB-5: 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VA-54(1st): 16 Aug 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-54 (1st) | 1 December 1949 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-5 | |
VA-5B | unknown | SB2C AD |
VB-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-5B: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-64(1st): 27 Jul 1948-8 Apr 1949 VC-24(2nd): 8 Apr 1949-20 Apr 1950 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-24(1st): 20 Apr 1950-1 Jun 1956 (same sqdn listed in VS section) |
VS-24 (1st) | 1 June 1956 | 1st VA squadron of CVBG-5 | |
VA-6A | Torpcats | TBM | VT-5: 15 Feb 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-6A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VA-55(1st): 16 Aug 1948-12 Dec 1975 |
VA-55 (1st) | 19 December 1975 | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-5 | |
VA-6B | unknown | SB2C AD |
VT-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-6B: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-65(1st): 27 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-25(2nd): 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1983 VFA-125: 1 Jul 1983-present |
VFA-25 | Not applicable, still exists | 2nd VA squadron of CVBG-5 | |
VA-7A | Sunday Punchers | SBW, SB2C F4U |
VB-18: 20 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-7A: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-74: 27 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VA-75(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-28 Feb 1997 |
VA-75 (2nd) | 28 February 1997 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-7 | |
VA-8A | Air Barons | TBM | VT-18: 20 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-8A: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-75(1st): 27 Jul 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-75 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-7 | |
VA-9A | unknown | SB2C | VB-99: 1 Jul 1943-15 Oct 1943 VB-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VA-94(1st): 12 Aug 1948-31 Nov 1949 |
VA-94 (1st) | 31 November 1949 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-9 | |
VA-10A | unknown | TBM | VT-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-10A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VA-95(1st): 12 Aug 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-95 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-9 | |
VA-11A | unknown | SB2C | VB-11: 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946 VA-11A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-114: 15 Jul 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-114 | 1 December 1949 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-11 | |
VA-12A | unknown | TBM | VT-11: 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946 VA-12A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-115: 15 Jul 1948-30 Sep 1996 VFA-115: 30 Sep 1996-present |
VFA-115 | Not applicable, still exists | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-11 | |
VA-13A | Hell Razors | SBW F4U |
VB-81: 1 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-134(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-174: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1966 VA-174(2nd): 1 Jul 1966-30 Jun 1988 |
VA-174 (2nd) | 30 June 1988 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-13 | |
VA-14A | Uninvited | TBM | VT-81: 1 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-14A: 15 Nov 1946- 2 Aug 1948 VA-135(1st): 2 Aug 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-135 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-13 | |
VA-15A | Flying Cannons | SB2C | VB-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-154: 15 Jul 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-154 | 1 December 1949 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-15 | |
VA-16A | unknown | TBM | VT-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-16A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-155(1st): 15 Jul 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-155 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-15 | |
VA-17A | Battering Rams | SBW AM |
VB-82: 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-17A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VA-174: 11 Aug 1948-25 Jan 1950 |
VA-174 | 25 January 1950 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-17 | |
VA-18A | Devils Diplomats | TBM | VT-82: 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-18A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VA-175: 11 Aug 1948-15 Mar 1958 |
VA-175 | 15 March 1958 | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-17 | |
VA-19A | unknown | SB2C AD |
VB-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-19A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Aug 1948 VA-194: 24 Aug 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-194 | 1 December 1949 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-19 | |
VA-20A | unknown | TBM AD |
VT-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-20A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948 VA-195: 24 Aug 1948-15 Apr 1985 VFA-195: 15 Apr 1985-present |
VFA-195 | Not applicable, still exists | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-19 | |
VA-21A | unknown | SB2C | VB-98: 28 Aug 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-21A: 15 Nov 1946-5 Aug 1947 |
VA-21A | 5 August 1947 | 1st VA squadron of CVAG-21 | |
VA-22A | unknown | TBM | VT-98: 28 Aug 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-22A: 15 Nov 1946-5 Aug 1947 |
VA-22A | 5 August 1947 | 2nd VA squadron of CVAG-21 | |
A new Squadron and Air Group designation scheme was established in 1948. CVAGs and CVBGs were all redesignated CVGs, CVLGs and CVEGs were disestablished, and squadron suffix letters were eliminated. New squadron designation numbers denoted to which CVG the squadron was assigned with the first one or two digits identifying the CVG followed by a 4 or 5 to differentiate between the two VA squadrons of each CVG. There were initially three VF squadrons in each CVG numbered with 1, 2 and 3 and two VA squadrons numbered with 4 and 5, therefore CVG-1's VA squadrons were VA-14 and VA-15; CVG-2's were VA-24 and VA-25; CVG-11's were VA-114 and VA-115; CVG-15's were VA-154 and VA-155 etc... When a squadron was moved from one CVG to another it was redesignated to conform with the designation of the newly assigned CVG. From 1951 to 1959 the Navy operated a number of Air Task Groups (ATG)s which were usually equipped by removing one squadron each from a number of then typical five VF/VA squadron CVGs leaving those CVGs at four VF/VA squadrons. Squadrons retained their former CVG's designation when assigned to an ATG. In some cases squadrons were established and assigned directly to an ATG, in those cases the squadron was typically assigned a designation as if assigned to one of the existing CVGs but with the last digit of the designation greater than "5". Squadrons and CVGs are grouped by designation below for ease of reading the table but it should not be assumed that the listed squadrons were assigned only to the CVG in which section they appear in the table as ATG assignment did not occasion a redesignation, and by the late 1950s the practice of redesignating squadrons upon transfer between CVGs had begun to be abandoned with squadrons being redesignated in some cases but not in others. | |||||||
CVG-1 (2nd): CVAG-1 redesignated CVG-1 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-1 | |||||||
VA-12 | Ubangis, Clinchers (1982) |
F2H F7U AD4/A-4 A-7 |
VBF-4: 12 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-2A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-12: 2 Aug 1948-1 Aug 1955 VA-12: 1 Aug 1955-1 Oct 1986 |
VA-12 | 1 October 1986 | CVG-1(2nd) VF squadron redesignated as a CVG-1(2nd) VA squadron. | |
VA-14 | Top Hatters | F4U | Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920 VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921 VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921 VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927 VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941 VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943 VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949 VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001 VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001-present |
VFA-14 | Not applicable, still exists | Oldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy. Redesignated as one of CVG-1(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-15 (First use) |
(1951) |
Valions (mid 1950s) |
TBM AD/A-1 A-4 |
VT-4: 10 Jan 1942-15 Nov 1946 VA-2A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-15(1st): 2 Aug 1948-1 Jun 1969 |
VA-15 (1st) | 1 June 1969 | Redesignated as one of CVG-1(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VA-16 | unknown | AD | VA-16: 1 Jun 1955-1 Mar 1958 | VA-16 | 1 March 1958 | Established and assigned to Air Task Group 182 (ATG-182) | |
CVG-2 (2nd): CVBG-1 redesignated CVG-2 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-2 | |||||||
VA-22 | Fighting Redcocks | FJ-4 A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VF-63: 28 Jul 1948-Mar 1956 VA-63: Mar 1956-1 Jul 1959 VA-22: 1 Jul 1959-4 May 1990 VFA-22: 4 May 1990-present |
VFA-22 | Not applicable, still exists | VF-63 had been transferred to CVG-2(2nd) in 1950 without being redesignated. Was redesignated a VA squadron retaining the 63 designation while still in CVG-2(2nd). Was ultimately redesignated VA-22 in 1959 to conform with the CVG designation | |
VA-23 | Black Knights | FJ-4 A4D/A-4 |
VF-653 (USNR): 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-151(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-7 Feb 1956 VA-151: 7 Feb 1956-23 Feb 1959 VA-23: 23 Feb 1959-1 Apr 1970 |
VA-23 | 1 April 1970 | VA-151 reassigned to CVG-2(2nd) and redesignated VA-23 | |
VA-24 | unknown | AD F4U |
VB-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-1B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-24: 1 Sep 1948-1 Dec 1949 VF-24(2nd): 1 Dec 1949-9 Mar 1959 VF-211(3rd): 9 Mar 1959-Aug 2006 VFA-211: Aug 2006-present |
VFA-211 | Not applicable, still exists | [b] Redesignated as one of CVG-2(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-25 (First use) |
(1950) |
Tigers (1950) |
SNJ AD/A-1 |
VT-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-2B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-25(1st): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-65(2nd): 1 Jul 1959-31 Mar 1993 |
VA-65 (2nd) | 31 March 1993 | Redesignated as one of CVG-2(2nd)'s initial squadrons. Reassigned to CVG-6(2nd) in 1950 without being redesignated until 1959 |
VA-25 (Second use) |
(1974) |
Fist of the Fleet | AD/A-1 A-7 |
VT-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-6B: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-65(1st): 27 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-25(2nd): 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1983 VFA-125: 1 Jul 1983-present |
VFA-25 | Not applicable, still exists | VA-65(1st) reassigned to CVG-2(2nd) in 1950 without being redesignated until 1959 |
VA-26 | Skylancers | F9F-8 | VA-26: 30 Jun 1956-11 Apr 1958 VA-125(2nd): 11 Apr 1958-1 Oct 1977 |
VA-125 (2nd) | 11 April 1977 | Established and assigned to Air Task Group THREE (ATG-3) until its redesignation to VA-125 and reassignment to RCVG-12 | |
CVG-3 (2nd): CVAG-3 redesignated CVG-3 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-3 | |||||||
VA-34 (First use) |
Black Panthers | AD/A-1 | VB-3B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-4: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-3: 1 Jul 1939-15 Nov 1946 VA-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VA-34(1st): 7 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VA-35(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-31 Jan 1995 |
VA-35 (2nd) | 31 January 1995 | Redesignated as one of CVG-3(2nd)'s initial squadrons. The "diving panther" insignia was created by VB-3B and remained in use through the entire life of the squadron through all of its redesignations. | |
VA-34 (1943-69) (Second use) |
Blue Blasters | F2H F7U A4D/A-4 |
VF-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VF-91(1st): 12 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-34(3rd): 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1955 VA-34(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jun 1969 |
VA-34 (2nd) | 1 June 1969 | VF-34(3rd) returned to CVG-3(2nd) from Air Task Group 181 (ATG-181) and redesignated a VA squadron | |
VA-35 (First use) |
Dragons | TBM AD |
VT-2: 1925-1 Jul 1927 VT-2B: 1 Jul 1927- 1 Jul 1937 VT-3: 1 Jul 1937-15 Nov 1946 VA-4A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VA-35(1st): 7 Aug 1948-7 Nov 1949 |
VA-35 (1st) | 7 November 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-3(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-35 (Second use) |
Black Panthers | A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VB-3B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-4: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-3: 1 Jul 1939-15 Nov 1946 VA-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VA-34(1st): 7 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VA-35(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-31 Jan 1995 |
VA-35 (2nd) | 31 January 1995 | VA-34(1st) redesignated VA-35(2nd) when VF-91(1st) was reassigned to CVG-3(2nd) as the group's fourth VF squadron VF-34(3rd) on 15 Feb 1950. The "diving panther" insignia was created by VB-3B and remained in use through the entire life of the squadron through all of its redesignations. | |
VA-36 (First use) |
Roadrunners | F9F-5 F9F-8 A4D/A-4 |
VF-102(1st): 1 May 1952-1 Jul 1955 VA-36(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Aug 1970 |
VA-36 (1st) | 1 August 1970 | VF-201 redesignated VA-36 and assigned to Air Task Group 201 (ATG-201). Ultimately assigned to CVG-3(2nd) in 1958 | |
CVG-4 (2nd): CVBG-1 redesignated CVG-4 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 8 Jun 1950 | |||||||
VA-44 (First use) |
unknown | AD AM |
VB-75: 1 Jun 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-3B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-44(1st): 1 Sep 1948-8 Jun 1950 |
VA-44 (1st) | 8 June 1950 | Redesignated as one of CVG-4(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-45 (First use) |
Black Knights | AD AM |
VT-75: 1 Jun 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-4B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-45(1st): 1 Sep 1948-8 Jun 1950 |
VA-45 (1st) | 8 June 1950 | Redesignated as one of CVG-4(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
CVG-4 (3rd): Established 1 Sep 1950, redesignated RCVG-4 on 1 Apr 1958 to control FRSs, disestablished 1 Jun 1970 as RCVW-4 | |||||||
VA-45 (Second use) |
Blackbirds | AD | VA-45(2nd): 1 Sep 1950-1 Mar 1958 | VA-45 (2nd) | 1 March 1958 | Established as one of CVG-4(3rd)'s initial squadrons (CVG-4(3rd) initially had four VF squadrons and only this single initial VA squadron). Was disestablished when CVG-4(3rd) was redesignated RCVG-4 | |
VA-46 | Clansmen (1960) |
F9F-5 F9F-8 A4D/A-4 A-7E |
VA-46: 25 May 1955-30 Jun 1991 | VA-46 | 30 June 1991 | Assigned to CVG-4(3rd) upon establishment but reassigned to Air Task Group 202 (ATG-202) two months later and never returned to CVG-4(3rd) | |
RCVG-4 / RCVW-4 Fleet Replacement Squadrons | |||||||
VA-42 | (1992) |
Green Pawns, Thunderbolts (1992) |
AD T-28 TC-4C A-6, KA-6 |
VF-42(4th): 1 Sep 1950-1 Nov 1953 VA-42: 1 Nov 1953-30 Sep 1994 |
VA-42 | 30 September 1994 | VF-42 assigned to CVG-6(2nd) at the time redesignated a VA squadron in 1953. Transitioned from an operational VA squadron to an AD Sky Raider FRS on 24 Oct 1958 and reassigned to RCVG-4. Later became an A-6 FRS. Adopted "Thunderbolts" name and insignia from VA-176 when it was disestablished in 1992 |
VA-43 | Challengers | A4D/A-4 | VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973 VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973-1 Jul 1994 |
VF-43 (5th) | 1 July 1994 | VF-21 redesignated as an A4D Skyhawk FRS and assigned to RCVG-4 | |
VA-44 (Second use) |
Hornets | F2H F9F-8 F9F-8T/TF-9 TV-2 T-28 A4D/A-4, TA-4 AD/A-1 |
VF-44(2nd): 1 Sep 1950-1 Jan 1956 VA-44(2nd): 1 Jan 1956-1 May 1970 |
VA-44 (2nd) | 1 May 1970 | CVG-4(3rd)'s VF-44 redesignated a VA squadron in 1956. Transitioned from an operational VA squadron of CVG-4(3rd) to an A4D Skyhawk FRS on 1 Jun 1958 in conjunction with CVG-4(3rd)'s redesignation to RCVG-4. In 1959 AD Sky Raider training was added and the squadron operated as both an A4D (A-4 in Sep 1962) and an AD (A-1 in Sep 1962) FRS. "Split out" VA-45(3rd) in 1963 to continue A-1 training and became solely an A-4 FRS | |
VA-45 (1963-96) (Third use) |
Blackbirds | A-1 A-4 |
VA-45(3rd): 15 Feb 1963-7 Feb 1985 VF-45(2nd): 7 Feb 1985-31 Mar 1996 |
VF-45 (2nd) | 31 March 1996 | Adopted both the "Blackbirds" name and the insignia of the disestablished VA-45(2nd). Established as an A-1 Sky Raider FRS and assigned to RCVG-4 (was "split out of" VA-44(2nd) to continue A-1 training to allow VA-44(2nd) to become solely an A-4 FRS). After the A-1's retirement the squadron provided A-4 detachments to ASW air groups and later assumed an adversary role in support of Air Combat Maneuvering training | |
CVG-5 (2nd): CVAG-5 redesignated CVG-5 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-5 | |||||||
VA-52 | Knightriders | AD/A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VF-884: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-144: 4 Feb 1953-23 Feb 1959 VA-52: 23 Feb 1959-31 Mar 1995 |
VA-52 | 31 March 1995 | VF-144 was redesignated a VA squadron and reassigned to CVG-5(2nd) | |
VA-54 (First use) |
unknown | F4U AD |
VS-2B: 3 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1937 (VS = "Scouting Squadron") VS-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Mar 1943 VB-4: 1 Mar 1943-15 Jul 1943 VB-5: 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VA-54(1st): 16 Aug 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-54 (1st) | 1 December 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-5(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-54 (Second use) |
Hell's Angels | AD F9F-8 |
VBF-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-16A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-152(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-54(1st): 15 Feb 1950-15 Jun 1956 VA-54(2nd): 15 Jun 1956-1 Apr 1958 |
VA-54 (2nd) | 1 April 1958 | CVG-5(2nd) VF squadron redesignated a VA squadron | |
VA-55 (First use) |
(1955) |
Torpcats, Warhorses (1955) |
TBM AD FJ-4 A4D/A-4 |
VT-5: 15 Feb 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-6A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VA-55(1st): 16 Aug 1948-12 Dec 1975 |
VA-55 (1st) | 19 December 1975 | Redesignated as one of CVG-5(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VA-56 | Boomerangs, Champions (1958) |
F9F-3 F9F-8 FJ-4 A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VA-56: 4 Jun 1956-31 Aug 1986 | VA-56 | 31 August 1986 | Established as a CVG-5(2nd) VA squadron | |
CVG-6 (2nd): CVBG-5 redesignated CVG-6 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Apr 1992 as CVW-6 | |||||||
VA-63 | Fighting Redcocks | F9F-8 FJ-4 |
VF-63: 28 Jul 1948-Mar 1956 VA-63: Mar 1956-1 Jul 1959 VA-22: 1 Jul 1959-4 May 1990 VFA-22: 4 May 1990-present |
VFA-22 | Not applicable, still exists | VF-63 had been transferred to CVG-2(2nd) in 1950 without being redesignated. Was redesignated a VA squadron retaining the 63 designation while still in CVG-2(2nd). Was ultimately redesignated VA-22 in 1959 to conform with the CVG designation | |
VA-64 (First use) |
unknown | AD | VB-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-5B: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-64(1st): 27 Jul 1948-8 Apr 1949 VC-24(2nd): 8 Apr 1949-20 Apr 1950 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-24(1st): 20 Apr 1950-1 Jun 1956 (same sqdn listed in VS section) |
VS-24 (1st) | 1 June 1956 | Redesignated as one of CVG-6(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-64 (Second use) |
Black Lancers | A4D/A-4 | VA-64(2nd): 1 Jul 1961-7 Nov 1969 | VA-64 (2nd) | 7 November 1969 | Established as a CVG-6(2nd) VA squadron | |
VA-65 (First use) |
(1949) |
Fist of the Fleet (1949) |
AD | VT-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-6B: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-65(1st): 27 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-25(2nd): 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1983 VFA-125: 1 Jul 1983-present |
VFA-25 | Not applicable, still exists | Redesignated as one of CVG-6(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VA-65 (Second use) |
Tigers | AD/A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VT-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-2B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-25(1st): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-65(2nd): 1 Jul 1959-31 Mar 1993 |
VA-65 (2nd) | 31 March 1993 | Replaced VA-65(1st) in CVG-6(2nd) when VA-65(1st) was moved to CVG-2(2nd) | |
VA-66 (First use) |
Crusaders | F9F-8 | VA-66(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-81(4th): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1959 VA-81: 1 Jul 1959-4 Feb 1988 VFA-81: 4 Feb 1988-present |
VFA-81 | Not applicable, still exists | [c] Established as VA-66(1st) but redesignated to VF-81(4th) on the same day and replaced VF-81(3rd) in CVG-8(2nd) | |
VA-66 (Second use) |
Waldomen | F7U F9F-8 A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VF-671: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-81(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-66(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Oct 1986 |
VA-66 (2nd) | 1 October 1986 | VF-81(3rd) which was assigned to CVG-8(2nd) was redesignated a VA squadron and reassigned to CVG-6(2nd) | |
CVG-7 (2nd): CVAG-7 redesignated CVG-7 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, still exists as CVW-7 | |||||||
VA-72 | Hawks, Blue Hawks (early 1960s) |
F9F-5 A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VBF-18: 25 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-8A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-72(2nd): 28 Jul 1948-3 Jan 1956 VA-72: 3 Jan 1956-30 Jun 1991 |
VA-72 | 30 June 1991 | CVG-7(2nd) VF squadron redesignated a CVG-7(2nd) VA squadron | |
VA-74 | Sunday Punchers | F4U AD |
VB-18: 20 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-7A: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-74: 27 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VA-75(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-28 Feb 1997 |
VA-75 (2nd) | 28 February 1997 | Redesignated as one of CVG-7(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-75 (First use) |
Air Barons | TBM AD |
VT-18: 20 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-8A: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-75(1st): 27 Jul 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-75 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-7(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-75 (Second use) |
(after 1950) |
Sunday Punchers | AD/A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VB-18: 20 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-7A: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-74: 27 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VA-75(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-28 Feb 1997 |
VA-75 (2nd) | 28 February 1997 | CVG-7(2nd) VA-74 redesignated VA-75(2nd). Original insignia of VB-18 was re-adopated after 1950. |
VA-76 | Spirits | F2H F9F-8 A4D/A-4 |
VA-76: 1 Jun 1955-30 Sep 1969 | VA-76 | 30 September 1969 | Established and assigned to Air Task Group 182 (ATG-182). Was never assigned to CVG-7(2nd) | |
CVG-8 (2nd): Planned for establishment in 1948 but cancelled | |||||||
VA-84 | unknown | TBM AM |
VA-84: 15 Sep 1948-29 Nov 1949 | VA-84 | 29 November 1949 | Established for assignment to CVG-8(2nd) but CVG-8 establishment was cancelled and squadron was disestablished | |
VA-85 (First use) |
unknown | TBM AM |
VA-85(1st): 15 Sep 1948-29 Nov 1949 | VA-85 (1st) | 29 November 1949 | Established for assignment to CVG-8(2nd) but CVG-8 establishment was cancelled and squadron was disestablished | |
CVG-8 (2nd): Established 9 Apr 1951 to received USNR squadrons activated for the Korean war, still exists as CVW-8 | |||||||
VA-81 | (1963) |
Crusaders, Sunliners (1963) |
A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VA-66(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-81(4th): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1959 VA-81: 1 Jul 1959-4 Feb 1988 VFA-81: 4 Feb 1988-present |
VFA-81 | Not applicable, still exists | CVG-8(2nd) VF squadron redesignated a CVG-8(2nd) VA squadron |
VA-83 | (1957) |
Roaring Bulls, Rampagers (1957) |
F7U A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VF-916: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-83(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-83: 1 Jul 1955-3 Mar 1988 VFA-83: 3 Mar 1988-present |
VFA-83 | Not applicable, still exists | CVG-8(2nd)'s VF-83 redesignated a CVG-8(2nd) VA squadron |
VA-85 (Second use) |
(1954) (1958) |
Black Falcons (1958) |
AD/A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VA-859 (USNR): not listed-4 Feb 1953 VA-85(2nd): 4 Feb 1953-30 Sep 1994 |
VA-85 (2nd) | 30 September 1994 | USNR VA-859 establishment date not listed, activated 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd) when it was established on 9 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VA-85(2nd) in 1953 |
VA-86 (First use) |
Vagabonds | FJ-3 | VA-86(1st): 1 July 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-84(3rd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Oct 1995 |
VF-84 (3rd) | 1 October 1995 | Established as VA-86(1st) but redesignated to VF-84(3rd) on the same day | |
VA-86 (Second use) |
Sidewinders | F7U A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VF-921: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-84(2nd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-86(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-15 Jul 1987 VFA-86: 15 Jul 1987-present |
VFA-86 | Not applicable, still exists | VF-84 redesignated VA-86 and assigned to Air Task Group 181 (ATG-181) | |
CVG-9 (2nd): CVAG-9 redesignated CVG-9 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Dec 1949 | |||||||
VA-94 (First use) |
unknown | SB2C AD |
VB-99: 1 Jul 1943-15 Oct 1943 VB-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VA-94(1st): 12 Aug 1948-31 Nov 1949 |
VA-94 (1st) | 31 November 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-9(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-95 (First use) |
unknown | TBM AD |
VT-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-10A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VA-95(1st): 12 Aug 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-95 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-9(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
CVG-9 (3rd): Established 26 Mar 1952, still exists as CVW-9 | |||||||
VA-93 | (1957) (1965) |
Blue Blazers, Ravens (1976) |
A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VF-93(3rd): 26 Mar 1952-15 Sep 1956 VA-93: 15 Sep 1956-30 Aug 1986 |
VA-93 | 30 August 1986 | CVG-9(3rd)'s VF-93 redesignated as a VA squadron |
VA-94 (Second use) |
(1967) |
Shrikes or Mighty Shrikes (1959) |
FJ-4 A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VF-94(2nd): 26 Mar 1952-1 Aug 1958 VA-94(2nd): 1 Aug 1958-28 Jun 1990 VFA-94: 28 Jun 1990-present |
VFA-94 | Not applicable, still exists | CVG-9(3rd)'s VF-94 redesignated as a VA squadron |
VA-95 (Second use) |
Sky Knights, Green Lizards (1963) |
F6F AD/A-1 A-4 |
VA-95(2nd): 26 Mar 1952-1 Apr 1970 | VA-95 (2nd) | 1 April 1970 | Established as CVG-9(3rd)'s only initial VA squadron (CVG-9(3rd) was established with four VF squadrons) | |
VA-96 | unknown | AD | VA-96: 30 Jun 1956-10 Apr 1958 | VA-96 | 10 April 1958 | Established and assigned to Air Task Group THREE (ATG-3) | |
CVG-10 (2nd): Established 1 May 1952, disestablished 20 Nov 1969 as CVW-10(1st) | |||||||
VA-104 | Hells Archers | AD | VF-104: 1 May 1952-4 Dec 1953 VA-104: 4 Dec 1953-31 Mar 1959 |
VA-104 | 31 March 1959 | CVG-10(2nd)'s VF-104 redesignated as a second VA squadron in the Air Group | |
VA-105 (First use) |
Cannoneers | AD | VA-105(1st): 1 May 1952-1 Feb 1959 | VA-105 (1st) | 1 February 1959 | Established as CVG-10(2nd)'s only initial VA squadron (CVG-10(2nd) was established with four VF squadrons). Reassigned to RCVG-4 in Nov 1958 as a FRS until its disestablishment less than 3 months later. | |
VA-106 (First use) |
Boomerangs | FJ-3 | VA-106(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-62(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Oct 1969 |
VF-62 (2nd) | 1 October 1969 | Established as VA-106(1st) on 1 Jul 1955 and redesignated VF-62(2nd) and assigned to CVG-6(2nd) on the same day | |
VA-106 (Second use) |
Gladiators | F2H F9F-8 A4D/A-4 |
VBF-17: 2 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-6B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-62(1st): 28 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1955 VA-106(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-7 Nov 1969 |
VA-106 (2nd) | 7 November 1969 | VF-62(1st) redesignated and reassigned to CVG-10(2nd) while a new VF-63(2nd) was established (as VA-106(1st) and immediately redesignated) to replace VF-62(1st) in CVG-6(2nd) | |
CVG-11 (2nd): CVAG-11 redesignated CVG-11 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, still exists as CVW-11 | |||||||
VA-112 | Broncos (1961) |
A4D/A-4 | VBF-11: 9 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-12A: 15 Nov 1946-15 July 1948 VF-112: 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1959 VA-112: 15 Feb 1959-10 Oct 1969 |
VA-112 | 10 October 1969 | CVG-11(2nd)'s VF-112 redesignated as a CVG-11(2nd) VA squadron | |
VA-113 | Stingers | F9F-8 A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VF-113: 15 Jul 1948-Mar 1956 VA-113: Mar 1956-25 Mar 1983 VFA-113: 25 Mar 1983-present |
VFA-113 | Not applicable, still exists | CVG-11(2nd)'s VF-113 redesignated as a CVG-11(2nd) VA squadron | |
VA-114 | unknown | AD F8F |
VB-11: 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946 VA-11A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-114: 15 Jul 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-114 | 1 December 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-11(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-115 | (1956) |
Arabs (1960) Eagles (1979) |
TBM AD/A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VT-11: 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946 VA-12A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-115: 15 Jul 1948-30 Sep 1996 VFA-115: 30 Sep 1996-present |
VFA-115 | Not applicable, still exists | Redesignated as one of CVG-11(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VA-116 | unknown | F7U FJ-4 |
VA-116: 1 Dec 1955-23 Feb 1959 VA-144: 23 Feb 1959-29 Jan 1971 |
VA-144 | 29 January 1971 | Assigned to Air Task Group TWO (ATG-2) then redesignated VA-144 and assigned to CVG-14(2nd) | |
CVG-12 (2nd): Established as CVG-102 on 1 Aug 1950 to received USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, redesignated CVG-12 (2nd) on 4 Feb 1952, redesignated RCVG-12 on 1 Apr 1958 to control FRSs | |||||||
VA-125 (First use) |
Rough Raiders | AD | VA-55E (USNR): 1946-Jan 1950 VA-923 (USNR): Jan 1950-4 Feb 1953 VA-125(1st): 4 Feb 1953-10 Apr 1958 |
VA-125 (1st) | 10 April 1958 | USNR VA-923 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-102 was later redesignated CVG-12(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VA-923 redesignated VA-125(1st) and permanently activated in 1953. | |
RCVG-12: CVG-12 (2nd) redesignated RCVG-12 on 1 Apr 1958 to control FRSs and other training support squadrons, redesignated RCVW-12 on 20 Dec 1963. Disestablished 30 Jun 1970 | |||||||
VA-122 | Flying Eagles | AD/A-1 T-28 A-7 T-39 |
VC-35(2nd): 25 May 1950-1 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VA(AW)-35: 1 Jul 1956-29 Jun 1959 VA-122: 29 Jun 1959-31 May 1991 |
VA-122 Disestablished |
31 May 1991 | Redesignated and assigned to RCVG-12 as an AD Skyraider FRS. Later transitioned to being an A-7 Corsair II FRS | |
VA-125 (1956-77) (Second use) |
Rough Raiders | AD/A-1 A4D/A-4, TA-4 A-7 |
VA-26: 30 Jun 1956-11 Apr 1958 VA-125(2nd): 11 Apr 1958-1 Oct 1977 |
VA-125 (2nd) | 1 October 1977 | Adopted "Rough Raiders" name from disestablished VA-125(1st). VA-26 redesignated and assigned to RCVG-12 as an A4D/A-4 Skyhawk FRS. Later became an A-7 Corsair II FRS | |
VA-126 | unknown | F9F-8T A4D/A-4, TA-4 |
VA-126: 6 Apr 1956-15 Oct 1965 VF-126: 15 Oct 1965-1 Apr 1994 |
VF-126 | 1 April 1994 | Established as an instrument training squadron using the F9F-8T Cougar.[8] Later became an A4D/A-4 Skyhawk FRS assigned to RCVG-12 | |
VA-127 | (1980) |
Royal Blues, Cylons (1981) |
F9F-8T/TF-9 A-4, TA-4 |
VA-127: 15 Jun 1962-1 Mar 1987 VFA-127: 1 Mar 1987-23 Mar 1996 (same sqdn listed in VFA section) |
VFA-127 | 23 March 1996 | Established from VA-126 detachment Alfa to provide advanced instrument training and jet transition training and assigned to RCVG-12. Became an A-4 FRS from 1 Jun 1970 to 1975. Provided basic refresher instrument and jet transition training and Air Combat Maneuvering (ACM) training from 1975 to 1983. 1 Oct 1983 became an "Adversary" squadron providing ACM training to fleet squadrons. |
CVG-13 (2nd): CVAG-13 redesignated CVG-13 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 30 Nov 1949 | |||||||
VA-134 (First use) |
Hell Razors | F4U | VB-81: 1 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-134(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-174: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1966 VA-174(2nd): 1 Jul 1966-30 Jun 1988 |
VA-174 (2nd) | 30 June 1988 | Initially assigned to CVG-1(2nd) but soon redesignated as one of CVG-13(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-135 (First use) |
Uninvited | TBM AD |
VT-81: 1 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-14A: 15 Nov 1946- 2 Aug 1948 VA-135(1st): 2 Aug 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-135 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-13(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
CVG-13 (3rd): Established 21 Aug 1961, disestablished 1 Oct 1962 | |||||||
VA-133 | Blue Knights | A4D | VA-133: 21 Aug 1961-1 Oct 1962 | VA-133 | 1 October 1962 | Established as one of CVG-13(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-134 (Second use) |
Scorpions | A4D | VA-134(2nd): 21 Aug 1961-1 Oct 1962 | VA-134 (2nd) | 1 October 1962 | Established as one of CVG-13(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-135 (Second use) |
Thunderbirds | AD | VA-135(2nd): 21 Aug 1961-1 Oct 1962 | VA-135 (2nd) | 1 October 1962 | Established as one of CVG-13(3rd)'s initial squadrons. Adopted the insignia but not the name of the disestablished VA-35(1st) | |
CVG-14 (2nd): Established as CVG-101 1 Aug 1950 to receive USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, redesignated CVG-14 (2nd) 4 Feb 1952, deactivated 31 Mar 2017 as CVW-14 | |||||||
VA-144 | Road Runners (1960s) |
FJ-4 A4DA-4 |
VA-116: 1 Dec 1955-23 Feb 1959 VA-144: 23 Feb 1959-29 Jan 1971 |
VA-144 | 29 January 1971 | VA-116 reassigned to CVG-14(2nd) and redesignated. Remained attached to CVG-14(2nd)/CVW-14 until 1965 | |
VA-145 | (1954) |
Rustlers, Swordsmen (1954) |
AD/A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VA-702 (USNR): 1 Dec 1949-4 Feb 1953[9] VA-145: 4 Feb 1953-1 Oct 1993 |
VA-145 | 1 October 1993 | USNR VA-702 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-101 was later redesignated CVG-14(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VA-702 redesignated VA-145 and permanently activated in 1953. Remained attached to CVG-14(2nd)/CVW-14 until 1967 |
VA-146 | (1968) |
Blacktails, Blue Diamonds (Late 1950s) |
F9F Panther F9F Cougar FJ-4 A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VA-146: 1 Feb 1956-21 Jul 1989 VFA-146: 21 Jul 1989-present |
VFA-146 | Not applicable, still exists | Assigned to CVG-14(2nd)/CVW-14 until 1967 |
CVG-15 (2nd): CVAG-15 redesignated CVG-15 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Dec 1949 | |||||||
VA-154 | Flying Cannons | AD | VB-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-154: 15 Jul 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-154 | 1 December 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-15(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-155 (First use) |
(1949) |
unknown | AD | VT-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-16A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-155(1st): 15 Jul 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-155 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-15(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
CVG-15 (3rd): Established 5 Apr 1951 to receive USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, disestablished 31 Mar 1995 as CVW-15 | |||||||
VA-151 | Black Knights | F7U F9F-8 FJ-4 |
VF-653: Dec 1949-4 Feb 1953 VF-151(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-7 Feb 1956 VA-151: 7 Feb 1956-23 Feb 1959 VA-23: 23 Feb 1959-1 Apr 1970 |
VA-23 | 1 April 1970 | Assigned to Air Task Group ONE (ATG-1). Reassigned to CVG-2(2nd) and redesignated VA-23 | |
VA-152 | Friendlies, Mavericks (1968) |
F2H AD/A-1 A-4 |
VF-713 (USNR): late 1940s-4 Feb 1953 VF-152(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Aug 1958 VA-152: 1 Aug 1958-29 Jan 1971 |
VA-152 | 29 January 1971 | CVG-15(3rd) VF squadron redesignated as a VA squadron. Assigned to Air Task Group FOUR (ATG-4) and CVG-15(3rd)/CVW-15 until 1964. | |
VA-153 | Blue Tail Flies | F9F-8 A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VF-718: est date unk-Sep 1949 VF-831: Sep 1949-4 Feb 1953 VF-153(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-17 Dec 1956 VA-153: 17 Dec 1956-30 Sep 1977 |
VA-153 | 30 September 1977 | CVG-15(3rd) VF squadron redesignated as a VA squadron. Assigned to CVG-15(3rd)/CVW-15 until 1969 | |
VA-155 (Second use) |
Silver Fox (early 1960s) |
AD A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VA-71E (USNR): 1946-1 Oct 1948 VA-58A (USNR): 1 Oct 1948-1 Nov 1949 VC-722 (USNR): 1 Nov 1949-1 Apr 1950 VA-728 (USNR): 1 Apr 1950-4 Feb 1953 VA-155(2nd): 4 Feb 1953-30 Sep 1977[10] |
VA-155 (2nd) | 30 September 1977 | USNR VA-728 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd) when it was established on 5 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VA-155(2nd) in 1953. Remained assigned to CVG-15(2nd)/CVW-15 until 1968. Adopted insignia of disestablished VA-155(1st) | |
VA-156 | Iron Tigers | F11F | VA-156: 4 Jun 1956-20 Jan 1959 VF-111(2nd): 20 Jan 1959-1 Sep 1964 VF-26(2nd): 1 Sep 1964-17 Sep 1964 VF-111(3rd): 17 Sep 1964-31 Mar 1995 |
VF-111 (3rd) | 31 March 1995 | Though designated a VA squadron it was equipped with a front line fighter and identified itself as a fighter squadron. It was assigned to CVG-11(2nd) and eventually redesignated as a VF squadron carrying the CVG-11(2nd) designation of VF-111 | |
CVG-16 (2nd): Established 1 Sep 1960, disestablished 30 Jun 1970 as CVW-16 | |||||||
VA-163 | Saints | A4D/A-4 | VA-163: 1 Sep 1960-1 Jul 1971 | VA-163 | 1 July 1971 | Established as one of CVG-16(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-164 | Ghost Riders | A4D/A-4 | VA-164: 1 Sep 1960-2 Dec 1975 | VA-164 | 2 December 1975 | Established as one of CVG-16(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-165 | (mid 1960s) |
Boomers (mid 1960s) |
AD/A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VA-165: 1 Sep 1960-30 Sep 1996 | VA-165 | 30 September 1996 | Established as one of CVG-16(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
CVG-17 (2nd): CVAG-17 redesignated CVG-17 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 15 Sep 1958 | |||||||
VA-172 | Bluebolts | F2H A4D/A-4 |
VBF-82: 20 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-18A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VF-172: 11 Aug 1948-1 Nov 1955 VA-172: 1 Nov 1955-15 Jan 1971 |
VA-172 | 15 January 1971 | CVG-17(2nd) VF squadron redesignated a VA squadron. Remained assigned to CVG-17(2nd) until 1959 | |
VA-174 (First use) |
Battering Rams | AM AD |
VB-82: 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-17A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VA-174: 11 Aug 1948-25 Jan 1950 |
VA-174 | 25 January 1950 | Redesignated as one of CVG-17(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-175 | (1951) |
Devils Diplomats | TBM AD |
VT-82: 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-18A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VA-175: 11 Aug 1948-15 Mar 1958 |
VA-175 | 15 March 1958 | Redesignated as one of CVG-17(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VA-176 | Thunderbolts | AD/A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VA-176: 1 Jun 1955-1 Oct 1992 | VA-176 | 1 October 1992 | Initially assigned to Air Task Group 202 (ATG-202) and reassigned to CVG-17(2nd) in 1958 but only for six months before being again reassigned (without being redesignated) | |
CVG-19 (2nd): CVAG-19 redesignated CVG-19 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 30 Jun 1977 as CVW-19 | |||||||
VA-192 | Golden Dragons | F9F Cougar FJ-4 A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-15 Mar 1956 VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1986 VFA-192: 10 Jan 1986-present |
VFA-192 | Not applicable, still exists | CVG-19(2nd) VF squadron redesignated a VA squadron. Remained assigned to CVG-19(2nd)/CVW-19 until 1970 | |
VA-194 | unknown | AD | VB-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-19A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Aug 1948 VA-194: 24 Aug 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-194 | 1 December 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-19(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-195 | (1949) (1950s) |
Tigers (1949) Dam Busters (1951) |
AD A4D/A-4 A-7 |
VT-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-20A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948 VA-195: 24 Aug 1948-15 Apr 1985 VFA-195: 15 Apr 1985-present |
VFA-195 | Not applicable, still exists | Redesignated as one of CVG-19(2nd)'s initial squadrons. Remained assigned to CVG-19(2nd)/CVW-19 until 1970 |
VA-196 | (1967) |
Main Battery, Milestones |
AD/A-1 A-6, KA-6 |
VF-153(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-194(1st): 15 Feb 1950-4 May 1955 VA-196: 4 May 1955-21 Mar 1997 |
VA-196 | 21 March 1997 | CVG-19(2nd) VF squadron redesignated a VA squadron. Assigned to Air Task Group ONE (ATG-1) and CVG-19(2nd)/CVW-19 until 1967. "Milestones" name used interchangeably with "Main Battery" beginning in 1979. |
CVG-21 (1st): Established 15 Sep 1948, disestablished 15 Mar 1949 | |||||||
VA-213 | unknown | TBM-3E | VA-213: 15 Sep 1948-Jun 1949 | VA-213 | June 1949 | Established as one of CVG-21(1st)'s initial squadrons | |
VA-214 (First use) |
unknown | TBM-3E | VA-214(1st): 15 Sep 1948-16 May 1949 | VA-214 (1st) | 16 May 1949 | Established as one of CVG-21(1st)'s initial squadrons | |
CVG-21 (2nd): Established 1 Jul 1955, disestablished 12 Dec 1975 as CVW-21 | |||||||
VA-212 | Rampant Raiders | F7U F9F-8 FJ-4 A4D/A-4 |
VF-212(2nd): 20 Jun 1955-1 Apr 1956 VA-212: 1 Apr 1956-12 Dec 1975 |
VA-212 | 12 December 1975 | CVG-21(2nd) VF squadron redesignated a VA squadron. Assigned to CVG-21(2nd)/CVW-21 | |
VA-214 (Second use) |
Volunteers | F9F-8 FJ-4 |
VF-214: 30 Mar 1955-11 Oct 1956 VA-214(2nd): 11 Oct 1956-1 Aug 1958 |
VA-214 (2nd) | 1 August 1958 | CVG-21(2nd) VF squadron redesignated a VA squadron and reassigned to Air Task Group FOUR (ATG-4) | |
VA-215 (First use) |
Barn Owls (1960) |
AD/A-1 | VA-215(1st): 15 Jun 1955-31 Aug 1967 | VA-215 (1st) | 31 August 1967 | Assigned to CVG-21(2nd)/CVW-21 from establishment to disestablishment | |
VA-216 | Black Diamonds | AD FJ-4 A4D/A-4 |
VA-216: 28 Mar 1955-1 Aug 1970 | VA-216 | 1 August 1970 | Initially assigned to Air Task Group FOUR (ATG-4) then to CVG-21(2nd)/CVW-21 | |
The system that determined squadron designation by Carrier Air Wing (CVW) assignment (CVGs had been retitled CVWs on 20 December 1963) was discontinued by 1965. Existing squadron designation numbers were "frozen" and no longer changed with Carrier Air Wing reassignment. Newly established or redesignated squadrons were numbered in accordance with factors determined at the time of establishment or redesignation. | |||||||
VA-15 (Second use) |
Valions | A-7 | VA-67:1 Aug 1968-2 Jun 1969 VA-15(2nd): 2 Jun 1969-1 Oct 1986 VFA-15: 1 Oct 1986-present (inactive 31 May 2017-present) (same sqdn listed in VFA section) |
VFA-15 | 31 May 2017 (Deactivated) |
Adopted both the "Valions" name and the insignia from the disestablished VA-15(1st). Initially assigned to CVW-6 | |
VA-27 | Royal Maces | A-7 | VA-27: 1 Sep 1967-24 Jan 1991 VFA-27: 24 Jan 1991-present |
VFA-27 | Not applicable, still exists | Initially assigned to CVW-14 | |
VA-34 (1970-99 (Third use) |
Blue Blasters | A-6, KA-6 | VA-34(3rd): 1 Jan 1970-30 Sep 1996 VFA-34: 30 Sep 1996-present |
VFA-34 | Not applicable, still exists | Adopted both the "Blue Blasters" name and the insignia from the disestablished VA-34(2nd). Initially assigned to CVW-1 | |
VA-36 (Second use) |
Road Runners | A-6, KA-6 | VA-36(2nd): 6 Mar 1987-1 Apr 1994 | VA-36 (2nd) | 1 April 1994 | Adopted "Roadrunners" name from disestablished VA-36(1st). Assigned to CVW-8 from establishment to disestablishment | |
VA-37 | (1980s) |
Bulls | A-7 | VA-37: 1 Jul 1967-28 Nov 1990 VFA-37: 28 Nov 1990-present |
VFA-37 | Not applicable, still exists | Initially assigned to CVW-11 |
VA-38 | None | VA-38: 1 Mar 1967-1 Oct 1968 | VA-38 | 1 October 1968 | Was intended as a new A-7 squadron but never received any aircraft and was disestablished | ||
VA-55 (Second use) |
Warhorses | A-6, KA-6 | VA-55(2nd): 7 Oct 1983-1 Jan 1991 | VA-55 (2nd) | 1 January 1991 | Adopted both the "Warhorses" name and the insignia from the disestablished VA-55(1st). Assigned to CVW-13 from establishment to disestablishment | |
VA-67 | Vulcans | A-7 | VA-67:1 Aug 1968-2 Jun 1969 VA-15(2nd): 2 Jun 1969-1 Oct 1986 VFA-15: 1 Oct 1986-present (inactive 31 May 2017-present) |
VFA-15 | 31 May 2017 (Deactivated) |
Established as VA-67 but redesignated VA-15(2nd) before it departed on its first deployment with CVW-6 | |
VA-82 | Marauders | A-7 | VA-82: 1 May 1967-13 Jul 1987 VFA-82: 13 Jul 1987-present (inactive 30 Sep 2005-present) (same sqdn listed in VFA section) |
VFA-82 | 30 September 2005 (Deactivated) |
Initially assigned to CVW-6 | |
VA-87 | Golden Warriors | A-7 | VA-87: 1 Feb 1968-1 May 1986 VFA-87: 1 May 1986-present |
VFA-87 | Not applicable, still exists | Initially assigned to CVW-16 | |
VA-95 (Third use) |
Green Lizards | A-6, KA-6 | VA-95(3rd): 1 Apr 1972-31 Oct 1995 | VA-95 (3rd) | 31 October 1995 | Adopted "Green Lizards" name from disestablished VA-95(2nd)). Initially assigned to CVW-15 | |
VA-97 | Warhawks | A-7 | VA-97: 1 Jun 1967-24 Jan 1991 VFA-97: 24 Jan 1991-present |
VFA-97 | Not applicable, still exists | Initially assigned to CVW-14 | |
VA-105 (1967-90) (Second use) |
Gunslingers | A-7 | VA-105(2nd): 4 Mar 1968-17 Dec 1990 VFA-105: 17 Dec 1990-present |
VFA-105 | Not applicable, still exists | Initially assigned to CVW-11 | |
VA-128 | Golden Intruders | A-6 TC-4C |
VA-128: 1 Sep 1967-29 Sep 1995 | VA-128 | 29 September 1995 | Established as an A-6 Intruder FRS assigned to RCVW-12 | |
VA-147 | Argonauts | A-7 | VA-147: 1 Feb 1967-20 Jul 1989 VFA-147: 20 Jul 1989-present |
VFA-147 | Not applicable, still exists | Initially assigned to CVW-2 | |
VA-155 (Third use) |
Silver Foxes | A-6, KA-6 | VA-155(3rd): 1 Sep 1987-30 Apr 1993 | VA-155 (3rd) | 30 April 1993 | Adopted "Silver Foxes" name from disestablished VA-155(2nd). Initially assigned to CVW-10(2nd) | |
VA-174 (Second use) |
Hell Razors | A-7 | VB-81: 1 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-134(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-174: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1966 VA-174(2nd): 1 Jul 1966-30 Jun 1988 |
VA-174 (2nd) | 30 June 1988 | VF-174 began operations as a F8U Crusader FRS in March 1958 and was reassigned from CVG-17(2nd) to RCVG-4 (without being redesignated). On 1 Jul 1966 it was redesignated a VA squadron and began operations as the first A-7 FRS | |
VA-185 | Night Hawks | A-6, KA-6 | VA-185: 1 Dec 1986-30 Aug 1991 | VA-186 | 30 August 1991 | Assigned to CVW-5 from establishment to disestablishment | |
VA-215 (Second use) |
Barn Owls | A-7 | VA-215(2nd): 1 Mar 1968-30 Sep 1977 | VA-215 (2nd) | 30 September 1977 | Adopted "Barn Owls" name from disestablished VA-215(1st). Initially assigned to CVW-9 | |
The U. S. Navy Reserve established two Reserve Carrier Air Wings designated CVWR-20 and CVWR-30 in 1970. It adopted the former system and designated the squadrons in accordance with Carrier Air Wing assignment. | |||||||
VA-203 | Blue Dolphins | A-4 A-7 |
VA-203: 1 Jul 1970-1 Oct 1989 VFA-203: 1 Oct 1989-present (inactive 30 Jun 2004-present) |
VFA-203 | 30 June 2004 (Deactivated) |
United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing TWENTY (CVWR-20) | |
VA-204 | River Rattlers | A-4 A-7 |
VA-204: 1 Jul 1970-1 May 1991 VFA-204: 1 May 1991-present |
VFA-204 | Not applicable, still exists | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing TWENTY (CVWR-20) | |
VA-205 | Green Falcons | A-4 A-7 A-6 |
VA-205: 1 Jul 1970-31 Dec 1994 | VA-205 | 31 December 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing TWENTY (CVWR-20) | |
VA-209 | unknown | A-4 | VA-209: 1 Jul 1970-15 Aug 1971 | VA-209 | 15 August 1971 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing TWENTY (CVWR-20) | |
VA-210 | Black Hawks | A-4 | VA-210: 1 Jul 1970- 30 Jun 1971 | VA-210 | 30 June 1971 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing TWENTY (CVWR-20) | |
VA-303 | Golden Hawks | A-4 A-7 |
VA-303: 1 Jul 1970-1 Jan 1984 VFA-303: 1 Jan 1984-31 Dec 1994 |
VFA-303 | 31 December 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing THIRTY (CVWR-30) | |
VA-304 | Firebirds | A-4 A-7 A-6 |
VA-304: 1 Jul 1970-31 Dec 1994 | VA-304 | 31 December 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing THIRTY (CVWR-30) | |
VA-305 | (1971) (1974) |
Hackers (1971) Lobos (1974) |
A-4 A-7 |
VA-305: 1 Jul 1970-1 Jan 1987 VFA-305: 1 Jan 1987-31 Dec 1994 |
VFA-305 | 31 December 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing THIRTY (CVWR-30) |
U. S. Navy Reserve Squadrons called to active duty. There were many U. S. Navy Reserve squadrons during the period from the end of WWII through the 1960s. Only those few squadrons which were called to active duty for any period of time are included in this table. | |||||||
VA-702 | Rustlers | TBM AD |
VA-702 (USNR): 1 Dec 1949-4 Feb 1953 VA-145: 4 Feb 1953-1 Oct 1993[11] |
VA-145 | 1 October 1993 | Activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 (later redesignated to CVG-14(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VA-728 | unknown | AM AD |
VA-71E (USNR): 1946-1 Oct 1948 VA-58A (USNR): 1 Oct 1948-1 Nov 1949 VC-722 (USNR): 1 Nov 1949-1 Apr 1950 VA-728 (USNR): 1 Apr 1950-4 Feb 1953 VA-155(2nd): 4 Feb 1953-30 Sep 1977[12] |
VA-155 (2nd) | 30 September 1977 | Activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VA-776 | unknown | A-4 | VA-776 (USNR): 27 Jan 1968-18 Oct 1968[13] | VA-776 | 18 October 1968 (Returned to reserve status) |
Establishment and disestablishment dates are not listed. The dates listed are those of activation from and return to reserve status. The squadron was activated following the capture of USS Pueblo by North Korea[14] | |
VA-831 | unknown | A-4 | VA-831 (USNR): 27 Jan 1968-18 Oct 1968[15] | VA-831 | 18 October 1968 (Returned to reserve status) |
Establishment and disestablishment dates are not listed. The dates listed are those of activation from and return to reserve status. The squadron was activated following the capture of USS Pueblo by North Korea[16] | |
VA-859 | unknown | AD | VA-859 (USNR): not listed-4 Feb 1953 VA-85(2nd): 4 Feb 1953-30 Sep 1994[17] |
VA-85 (2nd) | 30 September 1994 | Establishment date not listed, activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VA-873 | unknown | A-4 | VA-873 (USNR): 27 Jan 1968-12 Oct 1968[18] | VA-873 | 12 October 1968 (Returned to reserve status) |
Establishment and disestablishment dates are not listed. The dates listed are those of activation from and return to reserve status. The squadron was activated following the capture of USS Pueblo by North Korea[19] | |
VA-923 | Rough Riders | AM AD |
VA-55E (USNR): 1946-Jan 1950 VA-923 (USNR): Jan 1950-4 Feb 1953 VA-125(1st): 4 Feb 1953-10 Apr 1958[20] |
VA-125 (1st) | 10 April 1958 | Activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 (later redesignated to CVG-12(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953.[d] | |
"All Weather" Attack Squadrons 1956 to 1959 | |||||||
VA(AW)-33 | Nighthawks | AD-5N,5W | VC-33(2nd): 31 May 1949-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VA(AW)-33: 2 Jul 1956-30 Jan 1959 VAW-33: 30 Jan 1959-1 Feb 1968 (same sqdn listed in VAW section) VAQ-33: 1 Feb 1968-1 Oct 1993 (same sqdn listed in VAQ section) |
VAQ-33 | 1 October 1993 | Provided Night Fighter/All Weather Fighter detachments to CVGs | |
VA(AW)-35 | AD-5,5N,5Q,6,7 S2F-1 TF-1Q T-28B |
VC-35(2nd): 25 May 1950-1 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VA(AW)-35: 1 Jul 1956-29 Jun 1959 VA-122: 29 Jun 1959-31 May 1991 |
VA-122 | 31 May 1991 | Provided Night Fighter/All Weather Fighter detachments to CVGs |
Disestablished Heavy Attack squadrons (VAH) and VAH designations no longer in use
[edit]The VAH designation was established in 1955 when the Composite (VC) squadrons flying Heavy Attack aircraft (nuclear bombers) were redesignated Heavy Attack (VAH) squadrons. The designation was retired in 1971 with the disestablishment of the last VAH squadron (squadrons listed below with disestablishment dates after 1971 had been redesignated RVAH squadrons by 1966 except for VAH-2, 4 and 10 which were eventually redesignated VAQ squadrons). With the end of the Navy's nuclear bomber role, the VAH squadrons based on the east coast were redesignated RVAH squadrons and were equipped with the RA-5C Vigilante Reconnaissance aircraft. VAH squadrons based on the west coast retained the VAH designation but their A-3B Skywarriors were converted to KA-3B aerial tankers. By the late 1960s, electronic jamming equipment had been added to some KA-3B tankers and those "EKA-3B" aircraft led to the creation of VAQ squadrons.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[e] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[f] | Disestablished as (or current designation) | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VAH-1 | Tigers | A3D-1 A3D-2 A3J-1/A-5A |
VAH-1: 1 Nov 1955-1 Sep 1964 RVAH-3: 1 Sep 1964-29 Jan 1979 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-1 Disestablished |
29 January 1979 | Nucleus of VAH-1 was formed from VP-3 which was disestablished[21] | |
VAH-2 | Royal Rampants | A3B-1 A3B-2/A-3B KA-3B |
VAH-2: 1 Nov 1955-1 Nov 1968 VAQ-132: 1 Nov 1968-present |
VAQ-132 | Not applicable, still active | Nucleus of VAH-2 was formed from VP-29 which was disestablished[22] | |
VAH-3 | Sea Dragons | A3D-1 A3D-2/A-3B TA-3B A-5A |
VAH-3: 14 Jun 1956-1 Jul 1964 RVAH-3: 1 Jul 1964-17 Aug 1979 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-3 Disestablished |
17 August 1979 | Nucleus of VAH-3 was formed from VP-34 which was disestablished[23] Atlantic Fleet Fleet Replacement Squadron from 1958. | |
VAH-4 | Fourrunners | AD3-1 AD3-2/A-3B KA-3B |
VP-920: 1 May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-ML-70: 15 Nov 1946-Feb 1950 VP-931: Feb 1950-4 Feb 1953 VP-57: 4 Feb 1953-3 Jul 1956 VAH-4: 3 Jul 1956-1 Nov 1968 VAQ-131: 1 Nov 1968-present[24] |
VAQ-131 | Not applicable, still active | USNR squadron VP-931 activated on 2 Sep 1950 for participation in the Korean War[25] | |
VAH-5 | Savage Sons | AJ-2 A3D-2/A-3B |
VC-5(2nd): 9 Sep 1948-1 Nov 1955 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-5: 1 Nov 1955-May 1964 RVAH-5: May 1964-30 Sep 1977 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-5 Disestablished |
30 September 1977 | ||
VAH-6 | Fleurs | AJ-2 A3D-2/A-3B |
VC-6(2nd): 6 Jan 1950-1 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-6: 1 Jul 1956-23 Sep 1965 RVAH-6: 23 Sep 1965-20 Oct 1978 (same sqdn listed RVAH section) |
RVAH-6 Disestablished |
20 October 1978 | ||
VAH-7 | Peacemakers of the Fleet | AJ-2 A3D-2 A3J-1/A-5A |
VC-7(2nd): 10 Aug 1950-1 Nov 1955 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-7: 1 Nov 1955-1 Dec 1964 RVAH-7: 1 Dec 1964-28 Sep 1979 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-7 Disestablished |
28 September 1979 | ||
VAH-8 | Fireballers | A3D-2/A-3B KA-3B[26] |
VAH-8: 1 May 1957- 17 Jan 1968 | VAH-8 Disestablished |
17 January 1968 | ||
VAH-9 | Hoot Owls | AJ-2 A3D-2/A-3B RA-5C |
VC-9(2nd): 15 Jan 1953-1 Nov 1955 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-9: 1 Nov 1955-3 Jun 1964 RVAH-9: 3 Jun 1964-30 Sep 1977 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-9 Disestablished |
30 September 1977 | ||
VAH-10 | A3B-2/A-3B KA-3B |
VAH-10: 1 May 1961-1 Sep 1970 VAQ-129: 1 Sep 1970-present |
VAQ-129 | Not applicable, still active | |||
VAH-11 | Checkertails | AJ-2 A3D-2/A-3B |
VC-8(2nd): 3 Dec 1951-1 Nov 1955 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-11: 1 Nov 1955-1 Jul 1966 RVAH-11: 1 Jul 1966-1 Jun 1975 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-11 Disestablished |
1 June 1975 | ||
VAH-13 | Bats | A3D-2/A-3B | VAH-13: 3 Jan 1961-1 Nov 1964 RVAH-13: 1 Nov 1964-30 Jun 1976 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-13 Disestablished |
30 June 1976 | ||
VAH-15 | Sambos | AJ-2 TV-2[27] |
VAH-15: 15 Jan 1958-15 Feb 1959 | VAH-15 Disestablished |
15 February 1959 | ||
VAH-16 | White Blades | AJ-2[28] | VAH-16: 15 Jan 1958-30 Jan 1959 | VAH-16 Disestablished |
30 January 1959 | ||
VAH-21 | Roadrunners | AP-2H[29] | VAH-21: 1 Sep 1968-16 Jun 1969 | VAH-21 Disestablished |
16 June 1969 | ||
VAH-123 | Pros | A3D-1/A-3A A3D-2/A-3B A3D-2T/TA-3B A3D-1Q,2Q KA-3B A-6A[30] |
Heavy Attack Training Unit Pacific: 15 Jun 1957-29 Jun 1959 VAH-123: 29 Jun 1959-1 Feb 1971 |
VAH-123 Disestablished |
1 February 1971 | Pacific Fleet Fleet Replacement Squadron |
Disestablished Reconnaissance Attack (RVAH) squadrons
[edit]The RVAH designation was created in 1964 when the Navy's nuclear bomber role was ended and the Heavy Attack (VAH) squadrons which were then equipped with the A-5A Vigilante nuclear bomber were converted to Reconnaissance squadrons and their A-5A nuclear bombers were converted to RA-5C reconnaissance aircraft. Those VAH squadrons which were then still equipped with the A-3B remained designated Heavy Attack (VAH) squadrons. The designation was retired in 1979 with the disestablishment of the last RA-5C squadron.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[g] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[h] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
RVAH-1 | Smokin' Tigers | RA-5C | VAH-1: 1 Nov 1955-1 Sep 1964 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-3: 1 Sep 1964-29 Jan 1979 |
RVAH-1 Disestablished |
29 January 1979 | ||
RVAH-3 | Sea Dragons | RA-5C TA-3B TA-4J |
VAH-3: 14 Jun 1956-1 Jul 1964 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-3: 1 Jul 1964-17 Aug 1979 |
RVAH-3 Disestablished |
17 August 1979 | Fleet Replacement Squadron | |
RVAH-5 | Savage Sons | RA-5C | VC-5(2nd): 9 Sep 1948-1 Nov 1955 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-5: 1 Nov 1955-May 1956 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-5: May 1956-30 Sep 1977 |
RVAH-5 Disestablished |
30 September 1977 | ||
RVAH-6 | Fleurs | RA-5C | VC-6(2nd): 6 Jan 1950-1 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-6: 1 Jul 1956-23 Sep 1965 (same sqdn listed VAH section) RVAH-6: 23 Sep 1965-20 Oct 1978 |
RVAH-6 Disestablished |
20 October 1978 | ||
RVAH-7 | Peacemakers of the Fleet | RA-5C | VC-7(2nd): 10 Aug 1950-1 Nov 1955 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-7: 1 Nov 1955-1 Dec 1964 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-7: 1 Dec 1964-28 Sep 1979 |
RVAH-7 Disestablished |
28 September 1979 | ||
RVAH-9 | Hoot Owls | RA-5C | VC-9(2nd): 15 Jan 1953-1 Nov 1955 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-9: 1 Nov 1955-3 Jun 1964 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-9: 3 Jun 1964-30 Sep 1977 |
RVAH-9 Disestablished |
30 September 1977 | ||
RVAH-11 | Checkertails | RA-5C | VC-8(2nd): 3 Dec 1951-1 Nov 1955 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAH-11: 1 Nov 1955-1 Jul 1966 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-11: 1 Jul 1966-1 Jun 1975 |
RVAH-11 Disestablished |
1 June 1975 | ||
RVAH-12 | Speartips | RA-5C | RVAH-12: 1 Jul 1965-2 Jul 1979 | RVAH-12 Disestablished |
2 July 1979 | One of only two squadrons established as a RVAH squadron.[31] | |
RVAH-13 | Bats | RA-5C | VAH-13: 3 Jan 1961-1 Nov 1964 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-13: 1 Nov 1964-30 Jun 1976 |
RVAH-13 Disestablished |
30 June 1976 | ||
RVAH-14 | Eagle Eyes | RA-5C | RVAH-14: 14 Feb 1968-1 May 1976 | RVAH-14 Disestablished |
1 May 1976 | One of only two squadrons established as a RVAH squadron.[31] |
Disestablished Tactical Aerial Refueling squadrons (VAK)
[edit]The VAK designation was established in 1979[32]. It was only applied to two USNR squadrons then designated as VAQ squadrons but which performed tanking as their primary mission. It was discontinued in 1989 with the disestablishment of the last of the two squadrons.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[i] | Establishment and Redesignation Dates[j] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VAK-208 | Jockeys | KA-3B | VAQ-208: 31 Jul 1970-1 Oct 1979 (same sqdn listed in VAQ section) VAK-208: 1 Oct 1979-30 Sep 1989 |
VAK-208 Disestablished |
30 September 1989 | U. S. Navy Reserve Squadron. VAK designation created to reflect the actual mission of the squadron. | |
VAK-308 | Griffins | KA-3B | VAQ-308: 2 May 1970-1 Oct 1979 (same sqdn listed in VAQ section) VAK-308: 1 Oct 1979-30 Sep 1988 |
VAK-308 Disestablished |
30 September 1988 | U. S. Navy Reserve Squadron. VAK designation created to reflect the actual mission of the squadron. |
Disestablished Light Attack (VAL) squadrons
[edit]The Light Attack (VAL) designation was created in 1969 and designated only one squadron (VAL-4) which was established to support riverine and special operations during the Vietnam War. The designation was retired with the disestablishment of the squadron. A Helicopter Light Attack (HAL) designation had been created in 1967 to designate a single light attack helicopter squadron (HAL-3). HAL-3 and VAL-4 conducted operations in the Mekong Delta region of South Vietnam.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[k] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[l] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VAL-4 | Yellow Jackets (1969) Black Ponies (1971) |
OV-10A YOV-10D |
VAL-4: 3 Jan 1969-10 Apr 1972 | VAL-4 Disestablished |
10 April 1972 | Established to support River Patrol Craft, SEAL and joint operations in Mekong Delta region |
Disestablished Heavy Photographic Reconnaissance (VAP) squadrons
[edit]During the history of Naval Aviation, there have been several different designations used to designate photographic reconnaissance squadrons. The first squadrons specifically designated as photographic reconnaissance squadrons were designated during WWII as "Photographic Squadron (VD)". The VD designation was in use from 1943 to 1946. From 1946 to 1948 the VPP designation designated "Photographic Squadron" or "Patrol Squadron (Photographic)". In 1949, two new Photographic Reconnaissance squadrons were established as "Composite Squadrons" VC-61 and VC-62 (see the Disestablished and Deactivated Composite and Fleet Composite (VC) squadrons and VC designations no longer in use section). In 1956 VC-61 and VC-62 were redesignated "Light Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VFP) 61 and 62" (see the VFP squadrons section). The designation "VFP" was used as those two squadrons were then flying lighter fighter type aircraft modified for photographic Reconnaissance. In 1952, two additional reconnaissance squadrons were established, but instead of being designated "Composite Squadron" as were VC-61 and 62, they were designated "Photographic Squadron (VJ)" 61 and 62 (note: the VJ designation, at the same time also designated "Weather Squadron" or "Weather Reconnaissance Squadron"). In 1956 when VC-61 and 62 were redesignated VFP-61 and 62, Photographic Squadrons VJ-61 and VJ-62 were redesignated to "Heavy Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VAP) 61 and 62". The designation "VAP" was used because those two squadrons were flying heavier attack type aircraft modified for photographic reconnaissance. For a short period from 1959 to 1961 one VAP squadron and one VFP squadron were redesignated "Photographic Composite Squadron (VCP)" (see the VCP section) each one flying both a modified fighter type and a modified attack type aircraft but in 1961 they reverted to their previous VAP and VFP designations.[33]
Note: The parenthetical (1st), (2nd) etc... appended to designations in the tables below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[m] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[n] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VAP-61 (First use) |
World Recorders | AJ-2P | VP-61(4th): 20 Jan 1951-5 Mar 1952 (same sqdn listed in VP section) VJ-61: 5 Mar 1952-Apr 1956 (same sqdn listed in VJ(2nd) section VAP-61(1st): Apr 1956-1 Jul 1959 VCP-61: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1961 (same sqdn listed in VCP section) VAP-61(2nd): 1 Jul 1961-1 Jul 1971 (same sqdn listed below)[34] |
VAP-61(2nd) Disestablished |
1 July 1971 | ||
VAP-61 (Second use) |
World Recorders | A3D-2P/RA-3B KA-3B |
VP-61(4th): 20 Jan 1951-5 Mar 1952 (same sqdn listed in VP section) VJ-61: 5 Mar 1952-Apr 1956 (same sqdn listed in VJ(2nd) section) VAP-61(1st): Apr 1956-1 Jul 1959 (same sqdn listed above) VCP-61: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1961 (same sqdn listed in VCP section) VAP-61(2nd): 1 Jul 1961-1 Jul 1971[35] |
VAP-61(2nd) Disestablished |
1 July 1971 | ||
VAP-62 | Tigers | F7F-4N A3D-1P A3D-2P/RA-3B |
VJ-62: 10 Apr 1952-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VJ(2nd) section) VAP-62: 2 Jul 1956-15 Oct 1969[36] |
VAP-62 Disestablished |
15 October 1969 |
Disestablished and Deactivated Tactical Electronics Warfare squadrons (VAQ) and (VAW) and Electronic Attack squadrons (VAQ) and VAW designations no longer in use
[edit]In 1968 the VAQ designation was established to designate "Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron". Prior to the creation of the VAQ designation there were two squadrons (VAW-13 and VAW-33) which by the late 1950s had been equipped to conduct electronic countermeasures and were providing electronic countermeasures aircraft detachments to deploying Carrier Air Groups. By the late 1950s electronic countermeasures equipment and procedures had been developed from the airborne early warning capabilities of the VAW "Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadrons" as the technology for detecting airborne threats with radar led to development of electronic countermeasures equipment for countering enemy radar. In 1968 those two squadrons were renamed "Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron" (while retaining the VAW designation)[37] to more accurately describe their role and differentiate them from the remaining VAW squadrons which were Airborne Early Warning squadrons.
Later in 1968 the VAQ designation was created and those VAW "Tactical Electronics Warfare" squadrons were redesigned to VAQ.[38] At that same time, some VAH squadrons which were operating the KA-3 tanker had electronic countermeasures equipment added to their aircraft and were in turn also designated VAQ squadrons (see the VAH section).
In February 1998 the name of the designation was changed to "Electronic Attack Squadron" and all VAQ squadrons then in existence were renamed from "Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron-____" to "Electronic Attack Squadron-____".
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[o] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates | Disestablished/ Deactivated as (or current designation) | Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VAW-13 | Zappers | AD-5Q/EA-1F EKA-3B |
VAW-13: 1 Sep 1959-1 Oct 1968 VAQ-130:1 Oct 1968-present[39] |
VAQ-130 | Not Applicable still exists | Though the squadron carried the VAW designation it was actually an early electronics warfare squadron providing Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) detachments to Carrier Air Groups (Carrier Air Wings after 1963). | |
VAW-33 | Nighthawks | AD-5W/EA-1E AD-5Q/EA-1F TF-1Q/EC-1A[40] |
VC-33(2nd): 31 May 1949-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VA(AW)-33: 2 Jul 1956-30 Jan 1959 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VAW-33: 30 Jan 1959-1 Feb 1968 (same sqdn listed in VAW section) VAQ-33: 1 Feb 1968-1 Oct 1993[41] |
VAQ-33 Disestablished |
1 October 1993 | Though the squadron carried the VAW designation it provided both electronics countermeasures (EA-1F and EC-1A) and airborne early warning (EA-1E) detachments to Carrier Air Groups (CVG) (Carrier Air Wings after 1963) and Antisubmarine Carrier Air Groups (CVSG). | |
VAQ-33 | (1970) |
Nighthawks, Firebirds (1970) |
EA-1F ERA-3B EA-4F NC-121K EF-4B EF-4J TA-3B KA-3B EA-6A P-3A |
VC-33(2nd): 31 May 1949-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VA(AW)-33: 2 Jul 1956-30 Jan 1959 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VAW-33: 30 Jan 1959-1 Feb 1968 (same sqdn listed in VAW section) VAQ-33: 1 Feb 1968-1 Oct 1993[42] |
VAQ-33 Disestablished |
1 October 1993 | Provided Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) detachments of EA-1F aircraft to Carrier Air Wings until 1970 when its mission changed to simulation of electronic threats for Atlantic Fleet training ("Electronic Aggressor"). Operated as the A-3 variants Fleet Replacement Squadron from 1977 to 1991 when the A-3 was retired. Disestablished when the Electronic Aggressor role was transferred to the Navy Reserve in 1993. |
VAQ-34 | Electric Horsemen | RA-3B ERA-3B KA-3B TA-7C EA-7L F/A-18A |
VAQ-34: 1 Mar 1983-5 Oct 1993 | VAQ-34 Disestablished |
5 October 1993 | Provided simulation of electronic threats for Pacific Fleet training ("Electronic Aggressor"). Disestablished when the Electronic Aggressor role was transferred to the Navy Reserve in 1993. | |
VAQ-35 | Greywolves | EA-6B | VAQ-35: 14 Aug 1991-7 Oct 1993 | VAQ-35 Disestablished |
7 October 1993 | Established as the second Pacific Fleet "Electronic Aggressor" squadron using personnel and aircraft of disestablished VAQ-142(1st). Though not officially established until October 1991, it had begun operations in June 1991. Disestablished when the Electronic Aggressor role was transferred to the Navy Reserve in 1993. | |
VAQ-128 | Fighting Phoenix | EA-6B | VAQ-128: 1 Oct 1997-3 Sep 2004[43] | VAQ-128 Deactivated |
3 September 2004 | Established as a land based squadron to replace the capacity lost when the USAF retired the EF-111. Squadron was supplemented with a few USAF aircrews. | |
VAQ-133 (First use) |
Wizards | EKA-3B EA-6B |
VAQ-133(1st): 4 Mar 1969-June 1992 | VAQ-133(1st) Disestablished |
June 1992 | A second squadron designated VAQ-133 also called the Wizards was established 1 Apr 1996. That second VAQ-133 is still active.[44] | |
VAQ-137 (First use) |
Rooks | EA-6B | VAQ-137(1st): 14 Dec 1973-26 May 1994 | VAQ-137(1st) Disestablished |
26 May 1994 | A second squadron designated VAQ-137 also called the Rooks was established 1 Oct 1996. That second VAQ-137 is still active.[45] | |
VAQ-142 (First use) |
Grim Watchdogs | EA-6B | VAQ-142(1st): 1 Jun 1988-Mar 1991 | VAQ-142(1st) Disestablished |
March 1991 | Personnel and aircraft were used to establish VAQ-35 upon disestablishment. A second squadron designated VAQ-142 called the Gray Wolves was established 1 Apr 1997. That second VAQ-142 is still active.[46] | |
VAQ-143 | EA-6B (planned) |
VAQ-143: 1 Aug 2002-12 Nov 2009[47] | VAQ-143 Deactivated |
12 November 2009 | Officially established but funding was never provided and shortage of aircraft made it impossible to effectively activate the squadron (was not officially deactivated until November 12, 2009).[48] | ||
VAQ-208 | Jockeys | KA-3B[49] | VAQ-208: 31 Jul 1970-1 Oct 1979 VAK-208: 1 Oct 1979-30 Sep 1989 (same sqdn listed in VAK section)[50] |
VAK-208 Disestablished |
30 September 1989 | U. S. Navy Reserve Squadron. Though designated VAQ, the squadron was established to provide tanking and COD services[51] and did not operate as a tactical electronic warfare squadron. | |
VAQ-308 | Griffins | KA-3B[52] | VAQ-308: 2 May 1970-1 Oct 1979 VAK-308: 1 Oct 1979-30 Sep 1988 (same sqdn listed in VAK section)[53] |
VAK-308 Disestablished |
30 September 1988 | U. S. Navy Reserve Squadron. Though designated VAQ, the squadron was established to provide tanking and COD services[54] and did not operate as a tactical electronic warfare squadron. | |
VAQ-309 | Axemen | EA-6A EA-6B |
VAQ-309: 1 Feb 1979-31 Dec 1994 | VAQ-309 Disestablished |
31 December 1994 | U. S. Navy Reserve Squadron |
Disestablished and Deactivated Carrier Airborne Early Warning squadrons (VAW) and (RVAW) and VAW designations no longer in use
[edit]The VAW designation was first used in July 1948 with the establishment of VAW-1 and VAW-2 to designate "Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron".[55] It was in use for only a month as in August 1948 VAW-1 and VAW-2 were redesignated "Composite Squadron" VC-11 and VC-12. In 1948 the VAW designation was resurrected when VC-11 and VC-12 were redesignated VAW-11 and VAW-12.[56] In 1967, VAW-11 and VAW-12 which were large land based squadrons that provided detachments of Airborne Early Warning aircraft to deploying Carrier Air Wings were redesignated as wings and each of their detachments were established as separate squadrons.[57] Established from VAW-11 were RVAW-110 (a FRS), VAW-111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116 and established from VAW-12 were RVAW-120 (a FRS), VAW-121, 122, 123, 124. For a short time in 1968 the VAW designation designated "Tactical Electronics Warfare squadron" as well as "Airborne Early Warning squadron"[58] when VAW-13 and VAW-33 which had been operating as electronic countermeasures squadrons were retitled as such until they were redesignated with the new VAQ designation later that year (see the VAQ section).
Note: The parenthetical (First use), (Second use) and (1st), (2nd) appended to some designations in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[p] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates | Disestablished/ Deactivated as (or current designation) | Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VAW-1 | TBM-3W | VAW-1: 6 Jul 1948-Aug 1948 VC-11(2nd): Aug 1948-Feb 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAW-11: Feb 1956-20 Apr 1967 |
VAW-11 Was redesignated a wing and subordinate dets were established as squadrons[59] |
20 April 1967 | |||
VAW-2 | Bats | TBM-3W | VAW-2: 6 Jul 1948-Aug 1948 VC-12(2nd): Aug 1948-Feb 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAW-12: Feb 1956-1 Apr 1967 |
VAW-12 Was redesignated a wing and subordinate dets were established as squadrons[60] |
1 April 1967 | ||
VAW-11 | Early Elevens | AD-5W E-1B E-2A |
VAW-1: 6 Jul 1948-Aug 1948 VC-11(2nd): Aug 1948-Feb 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAW-11: Feb 1956-20 Apr 1967 |
VAW-11 Was redesignated a wing and subordinate dets were established as squadrons[61] |
20 April 1967 | Land based squadron, provided detachments of Airborne Early Warning Aircraft to deploying Carrier Air Groups (Carrier Air Wings after 1963) | |
VAW-12 | Bats | AD-5W E-1B E-2A |
VAW-2: 6 Jul 1948-Aug 1948 VC-12(2nd): Aug 1948-Feb 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VAW-12: Feb 1956-1 Apr 1967 |
VAW-12 Was redesignated a wing and subordinate dets were established as squadrons[62] |
1 April 1967 | Land based squadron, provided detachments of Airborne Early Warning Aircraft to deploying Carrier Air Groups (Carrier Air Wings after 1963) | |
VAW-13 | Zappers | AD-5Q/EA-1F EKA-3B |
VAW-13: 1 Sep 1959-1 Oct 1968 VAQ-130:1 Oct 1968-present[63] |
VAQ-130 | Not Applicable still exists | Though the squadron carried the VAW designation it was actually an early electronics warfare squadron providing Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) detachments to Carrier Air Groups (Carrier Air Wings after 1963). | |
VAW-33 | Nighthawks | AD-5W/EA-1E AD-5Q/EA-1F TF-1Q/EC-1A[64] |
VC-33(2nd): 31 May 1949-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VA(AW)-33: 2 Jul 1956-30 Jan 1959 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VAW-33: 30 Jan 1959-1 Feb 1968 VAQ-33: 1 Feb 1968-1 Oct 1993[65] (same sqdn listed in VAQ section) |
VAQ-33 Disestablished |
1 October 1993 | Though the squadron carried the VAW designation it provided both electronics countermeasures (EA-1F and EC-1A) and airborne early warning (EA-1E) detachments to Carrier Air Groups (CVG) (Carrier Air Wings after 1963) and Antisubmarine Carrier Air Groups (CVSG). | |
VAW-77 | Night Wolves | E-2C | VAW-77: 1 Oct 1995-present[66] (inactive 9 Mar 2013-present) |
VAW-77 Deactivated |
9 March 2013 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Established specifically to support the USCG and other Federal Agencies in interdicting illegal drug trafficking | |
VAW-78 | Fighting Escargots | E-1B E-2B, E-2C |
VAW-78: 1 Jul 1970-present[67] (inactive 31 Mar 2005-present) |
VAW-78 Deactivated |
31 March 2005 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Established as a squadron of CVSGR-70 | |
VAW-88 | Cotton Pickers | E-1B E-2B, E-2C |
VAW-88: 1 Jun 1970-31 Dec 1994 | VAW-88 Disestablished |
31 December 1994 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Established as a squadron of CVSGR-80 | |
RVAW-110 | Firebirds | E-1B E-2A, E-2B, E-2C |
RVAW-110: 20 Apr 1967-1 May 1983 VAW-110: 1 May 1983-1 Sep 1994 |
VAW-110 Disestablished |
1 September 1994 | RVAW-110 established from VAW-11 as a Fleet Replacement Squadron upon VAW-11's redesignation as a wing | |
VAW-110 | Firebirds | E-2C | RVAW-110: 20 Apr 1967-1 May 1983 VAW-110: 1 May 1983-1 Sep 1994 |
VAW-110 Disestablished |
1 September 1994 | The "R" was dropped from the RVAW designation to conform with all other Navy FRS designations | |
VAW-111 (First use) |
Hunters (1967) Grey Berets (1974) |
E-1B | VAW-111(1st): 20 Apr 1967-1 Jun 1977[68][69] | VAW-111(1st) Disestablished |
1 June 1977 | Established from a VAW-11 detachment | |
VAW-111 (Second use) |
Grey Berets | E-2B | VAW-111(2nd): 1 Oct 1986-30 Apr 1988[70][71] | VAW-111(2nd) Disestablished |
30 April 1988 | Adopted "Grey Berets" name from the disestablished VAW-111(1st) | |
VAW-112 | Golden Hawks | E-2A, E-2B, E-2C | VAW-112: 20 Apr 1967-present[72] (inactive 31 May 2017-present) |
VAW-112 Deactivated |
31 May 2017 | Established from a VAW-11 detachment | |
VAW-114 | Hormel Hawgs | E-2A, E-2C | VAW-114: 20 Apr 1967-16 Feb 1995 | VAW-114 Disestablished |
16 February 1995 | Established from a VAW-11 detachment | |
RVAW-120 | Grey Hawks | E-1B E-2A, E-2B, E-2C |
RVAW-120: 1 Jul 1967-1 May 1983 VAW-120: 1 May 1983-present |
VAW-120 | Not applicable, still exists | RVAW-120 established from VAW-12 as a Fleet Replacement Squadron upon VAW-12's redesignation as a wing | |
VAW-122 | Hummer Gators, Steeljaws |
E-2A, E-2B, E-2C | VAW-122: 1 Apr 1976-31 Mar 1996 | VAW-122 Disestablished |
31 March 1996 | Established from a VAW-12 detachment | |
VAW-127 | Seabats | E-2C | VAW-127: 2 Sep 1983-30 Sep 1991 | VAW-127 Disestablished |
30 September 1991 | ||
VAW-207 | E-1B | VAW-207: 1 Jul 1970-1 Sep 1974[73] | VAW-207 Disestablished |
1 September 1974 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Established as a squadron of CVWR-20 | ||
VAW-307 | E-1B | VAW-307: Jul 1970-Sep 1974[74] | VAW-307 Disestablished |
September 1974 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Established as a squadron of CVWR-30 |
Disestablised Bombing or Light Bombing (VB) squadrons and VB designations no longer in use
[edit]Disestablished Bombing Fighting (VBF) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Composite (VC) squadrons (first use of the VC designation: 1943 to 1945)
[edit]The VC designation was first created on 1 March 1943 when Escort Scouting Squadrons (VGS) which operated from Escort Carriers (CVEs) were redesignated Composite Squadrons (VC).[75] These VC squadrons flew combinations of fighters, dive bombers and/or torpedo bombers from Escort Carriers through WWII, at the end of which they were all disestablished by the end of 1945.
Note: The parenthetical (first use) and (1st) appended to designations in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
There were approximately 90 VC squadrons which existed from 1943 to 1945.[76] The table below contains a partial list of those WWII VC squadrons
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[q] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[r] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VC-6 (first use) |
FM-2, TBM | VGS-25: Jan 1943-Mar 1943 VC-25(1st): Mar 1943-Sep 1943 VC-6(1st): Sep 1943-5 Oct 1945 |
VC-6(1st) | October 5, 1945 | |||
VC-8 (first use) |
VC-8(1st): 1943-1945 | VC-8(1st) | 1945 | Operated fighter and scouting planes from an escort carrier (CVE) | |||
VC-10 (first use) |
VC-10(1st): 23 Sep 1943-1945 | VC-10(1st) | 1945 | Operated fighter and torpedo planes from USS Gambier Bay (CVE 73)[77] | |||
VC-11 | VGS-11: 5 Aug 1942-1 Mar 1943 VC-11(1st): 1 Mar 1943-16 May 1943 VF-21(1st): 16 May 1943-5 Nov 1945 |
VF-21 (1st) | 5 November 1945 | ||||
VC-13 (first use) |
Fools in God's Oceans | F4F, TBM | VC-13(1st): 1943-1945 | VC-13(1st) | c.1945 | USS Tripoli (CVE-64), USS Anzio (CVE-57) | |
VC-16 | VGS-16: 6 Aug 1942-1 Mar 1943 VC-16: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-33(1st): 15 Aug 1943-9 Nov 1945 |
VF-33 (1st) | 19 November 1945 | ||||
VC-18 | VGS-18: 15 Oct 1942-1 Mar 1943 VC-18: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-36(1st): 15 Aug 1943-5 Mar 1944 VF-18(2nd): 5 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-7A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-71(2nd): 28 Jul 1948-31 Mar 1959 |
VF-71 (2nd) | 31 March 1959 | ||||
VC-25 (first use) |
FM-2, TBM | VGS-25: Jan 1943-Mar 1943 VC-25(1st): Mar 1943-Sep 1943 VC-6(1st): Sep 1943-5 Oct 1945 |
VC-6(1st) | October 5, 1945 | |||
VC-34 | VGS-34: 24 Feb 1943-1 Mar 1943 VC-34(1st): 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-34(1st): 15 Aug 1943-8 Jul 1944 |
VF-34 (1st) | 8 July 1944 | ||||
VC-64 | VC-64: 1 Jun 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-39(1st): 15 Aug 1943-15 Jul 1944 |
VF-39 (1st) | 15 July 1944 | ||||
VC-72 | Ball the Jack | FM-2, TBM | VC-72: 1944-1945 | VC-72 | 1945 |
Disestablished and Deactivated Composite (VC) squadrons (second use of the VC designation: 1948 to 1956)
[edit]In 1948 the VC composite squadron designation was resurrected and though these VC squadrons conducted various different missions, they were all designated VC. The squadrons were composed of detachments of aircraft which deployed aboard aircraft carriers with the Carrier Air Group (later Carrier Air Wing) conducting specialized missions. Missions included: All-Weather/Night Fighter; Heavy Attack (Nuclear Bombers); Airborne Early Warning; Anti-Submarine Warfare; and Photographic Reconnaissance. Single digit numbers designated the Composite All Weather Fighter and the Heavy Attack squadrons, teens designated Composite Airborne Early Warning Squadrons, numbers in the 20s and 30s designated Composite Anti-Submarine Squadrons, and the numbers in the 60s designated Composite Photographic Squadrons. By 1956 these squadrons had all been redesignated as VF(AW), VAH, VAW, VS or VFP depending on the specific mission, and the VC designation once again ceased to exist.[78] There have been multiple unrelated squadrons using the same VC designations through the years. For example, the last two VC squadrons were VC-6 and VC-8 which were deactivated in 2008 and 2003 respectively. Both of those squadrons were the third squadron to use each of those designations, and neither squadron had any relation to earlier squadrons designated VC-6 or VC-8. The first VC-6 and VC-8 were WWII Escort Carrier composite squadrons, the second VC-6 was a heavy attack squadron which was redesignated VAH-6 then RVAH-6 and the second VC-8 was also a heavy attack squadron which was redesignated VAH-11 then RVAH-11.
The table below does not list disestablished squadrons; it lists squadron designations which are no longer in use. Most of the squadron designations in the table belonged to squadrons which have been disestablished but some belonged to squadrons which have been deactivated and still exist in an inactive status.
Note: The parenthetical (2nd) and (3rd) appended to designations in the tables below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[s] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[t] | Disestablished/ Deactivated as | Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VC-3 (second use) |
Blue Nemesis | F4U-5N F2H-3 F9F-6 F7U-3 F11F TV-2 FJ-3 A4D F4D |
VC-3(2nd): 20 May 1949-1 Jul 1956 VF(AW)-3: 1 Jul 1956-2 May 1958 (same sqdn listed in VF section)[79] |
VF(AW)-3 (1st) Disestablished |
2 May 1958 | All wx/night Fighter Squadron until August 1954 then operated as Transitional Training Unit Pacific transitioning squadrons to new high performance jet aircraft[80] | |
VC-4 (second use) |
Night Cappers | F4U-5N F9F F3D AM |
VC-4(2nd): 28 Sep 1948-2 Jul 1956 VF(AW)-4: 2 Jul 1956-31 Aug 1959 (same sqdn listed in VF section)[79] |
VF(AW)-4 Disestablished |
31 August 1959 | All wx/night Fighter Squadron | |
VC-5 (second use) |
Savage Sons | P2V-3C AJ-1,2 |
VC-5(2nd): 9 Sep 1948-1 Nov 1955 VAH-5: 1 Nov 1955-May 1956 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-5: May 1956-30 Sep 1977 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-5 Disestablished |
30 September 1977 | Heavy Attack Squadron | |
VC-6 (second use) |
Fire Bees, Fleurs | P2V AJ-2 |
VC-6(2nd): 6 Jan 1950-1 Jul 1956 VAH-6: 1 Jul 1956-23 Sep 1965 (same sqdn listed VAH section) RVAH-6: 23 Sep 1965-20 Oct 1978 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-6 Disestablished |
20 October 1978 | Heavy Attack Squadron | |
VC-7 (second use) |
Peacemakers of the Fleet | AJ-1,2 | VC-7(2nd): 10 Aug 1950-1 Nov 1955 VAH-7: 1 Nov 1955-1 Dec 1964 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-7: 1 Dec 1964-28 Sep 1979 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-7 Disestablished |
28 September 1979 | Heavy Attack Squadron | |
VC-8 (second use) |
Checkertails | P2V-3C AJ-1,2 |
VC-8(2nd): 3 Dec 1951-1 Nov 1955 VAH-11: 1 Nov 1955-1 Jul 1966 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-11: 1 Jul 1966-1 Jun 1975 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-11 Disestablished |
1 June 1975 | Heavy Attack Squadron | |
VC-9 (second use) |
Hoot Owls | AJ-2 | VC-9(2nd): 15 Jan 1953-1 Nov 1955 VAH-9: 1 Nov 1955-3 Jun 1964 (same sqdn listed in VAH section) RVAH-9: 3 Jun 1964-30 Sep 1977 (same sqdn listed in RVAH section) |
RVAH-9 Disestablished |
30 September 1977 | Heavy Attack Squadron | |
VC-11 (second use) |
Early Elevens | TBM-3W AD-3W,4W,5W |
VAW-1: 6 July 1948-1 Sep 1948 (same sqdn listed in VAW section) VC-11(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-2 Jul 1956 VAW-11: 2 Jul 1956-20 Apr 1967 (same sqdn listed in VAW section)[81] |
VAW-11 redesigned AEWWINGPAC and its dets were established as separate individual VAW squadrons | 20 April 1967 | Airborne Early Warning Squadron | |
VC-12 (second use) |
Bats | TBM-3W AF-2W AD-4W,5W |
VAW-2: 6 July 1948-1 Sep 1948 (same sqdn listed in VAW section) VC-12(2nd): 1-Sep 1948-2 Jul 1956 VAW-12: 2 Jul 1956-1 Apr 1967 (same sqdn listed in VAW section)[82] |
VAW-12 redesigned AEWWINGLANT and its dets were established as separate individual VAW squadrons | 1 April 1967 | Airborne Early Warning Squadron | |
VC-21 (second use) |
Redtails | TBM-3S | CVEG-41: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 CVEG-1: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948* VC-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-23 Apr 1959 VS-21: 23 Apr 1950–present (inactive 28 Feb 2005–present) (same sqdn listed in VS section)[83] |
VS-21 Deactivated |
28 February 2005 | ASW Squadron. *Escort Carrier Air Group-1 was redesignated as a single squadron designated VC-21 on 1 Sep 1948.[83] | |
VC-22 (second use) |
Checkmates | TBM-3S, TBM-3W |
VT-42: 19 Jul 1945-15 Nov 1946 (same sqdn listed in VT(torpedo) section) VA-2E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VC-22(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-20 Apr 1950 VS-22(1st): 20 April 1950-1 Jun 1956 (same sqdn listed in VS section)[5] |
VS-22 (1st) Disestablished |
1 June 1956 | ASW Squadron | |
VC-23 (second use) |
Black Cats | TBM-3S, TBM-3W |
VA-3E: 21 Apr 1947-1 Sep 1948 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VC-23(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-23 Apr 1959 VS-23: 23 Apr 1950-27 Sep 1968 (same sqdn listed in VC section)[5] |
VS-23 Disestablished |
27 September 1968 | ASW Squadron | |
VC-24 (second use) |
Duty Cats | TBM-3E | VB-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-5B: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VA-64(1st): 27 Jul 1948-8 Apr 1949 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VC-24(2nd): 8 Apr 1949-20 Apr 1959 VS-24(1st): 20 Apr 1950-1 Jun 1956 (same sqdn listed in VS squadron)[5] |
VS-24 (1st) Disestablished |
1 June 1956 | ASW Squadron | |
VC-25 (third use) |
Golden Eagles | TBM-3W, TBM-3S |
VC-25(3rd): 1 Apr 1949-20 Apr 1950 VS-25(1st): 20 Apr 1950-1 Jun 1956 (same sqdn listed in VS section) |
VS-25 (1st) Disestablished |
1 June 1956 | ASW Squadron | |
VC-31 (third use) |
Topcats | TBM-3S, TBM-3W |
VC-31(3rd): 28 Sep 1948-20 Apr 1950 VS-31: 20 Apr 1950–present (inactive 31 Mar 2008–present) (same sqdn listed in VS section)[83] |
VS-31 Deactivated |
31 March 2008 | ASW Squadron | |
VC-32 (second use) |
Maulers | TBM-3E, TBM-3W |
VC-32(2nd): 31 May 1949-20 Apr 1950 VS-32: 20 Apr 1950–present (inactive 30 Sep 2008–present) (same sqdn listed in VS section)[83] |
VS-32 Deactivated |
30 September 2008 | ASW Squadron | |
VC-33 (second use) |
TBM-3E/N/Q, SNB-5 |
VC-33(2nd): 31 May 1949-2 Jul 1956 VA(AW)-33: 2 Jul 1956-30 Jan 1959 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VAW-33: 30 Jan 1959-1 Feb 1968 (same sqdn listed in VAW section) VAQ-33: 1 Feb 1968-1 Oct 1993 (same sqdn listed in VAQ section) |
VAQ-33 Disestablished |
1 October 1993 | ASW Squadron | ||
VC-35 (second use) |
AD-1H, AD-2Q, AD-3Q/N, AD-4N/Q/NL/B, AD-5N, AD-6, TBM-3E, TBM-3N |
VC-35(2nd): 25 May 1950-1 Jul 1956 VA(AW)-35: 1 Jul 1956-29 Jun 1959 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VA-122: 29 Jun 1959-31 May 1991 (same sqdn listed in VA section) |
VA-122 Disestablished |
31 May 1991 | ASW and All Weather Attack Squadron | ||
VC-61 | (1951) |
Eyes Of The Fleet | F8F-2P, F4U-4P/5P, F9F-2P/5P, F9F-6P/8P, F2H-2P |
VC-61: 20 Jan 1949-2 Jul 1956 VFP-61: 2 Jul 1956-1 Jul 1959 (same sqdn listed in VAP,VFP,VCP section) VCP-63: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1961 (same sqdn listed in VAP,VFP,VCP section) VFP-63: on 1 Jul 1961-30 Jun 1984 (same sqdn listed in VAP,VFP,VCP section)[76] |
VFP-63 Disestablished |
30 June 1984 | Photo Recon Squadron |
VC-62 | Fighting Photos | F8F-2P, F4U-5P |
VC-62: 3 Jan 1949-2 Jul 1956 VFP-62: 2 Jul 1956-5 Jan 1968 (same sqdn listed in VAP,VFP,VCP section)[76] |
VFP-62 Disestablished |
5 January 1968 | Photo Recon Squadron |
Disestablished and Deactivated Fleet Composite (VC) squadrons and VC designations no longer in use (third use of the VC designation: 1965 to 2008)
[edit]In 1965 the VC designation was again resurrected as the designation for new Fleet Composite Squadrons which were utility or support squadrons and were usually composed of more than one type aircraft conducting missions such as aerial target support, missile range support, fighter training as adversary aircraft and other miscellaneous missions. There have been multiple unrelated squadrons using the same VC designations through the years. For example, the last two VC squadrons were VC-6 and VC-8 which were deactivated in 2008 and 2003 respectively. Both of those squadrons were the third squadron to use each of those designations, and neither squadron had any relation to earlier squadrons designated VC-6 or VC-8. The first VC-6 and VC-8 were WWII Escort Carrier composite squadrons, the second VC-6 was a heavy attack squadron which was redesignated VAH-6 then RVAH-6 and the second VC-8 was also a heavy attack squadron which was redesignated VAH-11 then RVAH-11.
The table below does not list disestablished squadrons; it lists squadron designations which are no longer in use. Most of the squadron designations in the table belonged to squadrons which have been disestablished but some belonged to squadrons which have been deactivated and still exist in an inactive status.
Note: The parenthetical (2nd) and (3rd) appended to designations in the tables below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[u] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[v] | Disestablished/ Deactivated as | Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VC-1 (third use) |
Blue Alli | F-8 RC-45J VC-118 DP-2E US-2C A-4 UH-34J SH-3A,G CH-53E Target Drones |
VU-1(2nd): 20 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-1(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Sep 1992 |
VC-1 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 September 1992 | NAS Barbers Point Provided adversary servies for fleet and air combat maneuvering training. Also provided aerial target, aerial photographic, target drone and range services[84] | |
VC-2 (third use) |
Blue Falcons | F-8 US-2C A-4 |
VU-2: 8 Jan 1952-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Sep 1980 |
VC-2 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 September 1980 | NAS Oceana Provided adversary services for fleet and air combat maneuvering training[85] | |
VC-3 (third use) |
Iron Man | DP-2E US-2 DC-130 BQM-34 BQM-74 Other Target Drones |
VU-3(2nd): Dec 1948-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-3(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-1 Oct 1981 |
VC-3 (3rd) Disestablished |
1 October 1981 | NAS North Island Provided target drone services | |
VC-4 (third use) |
Dragon Layers | F-8 | VJ-4: 15 Nov 1940-14 Nov 1946 (same sqdn in VJ(1st) section) VU-4: 15 Nov 1946-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-4(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Apr 1971 |
VC-4 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 April 1971 | NAS Jacksonville | |
VC-5 (third use) |
Checkertails | A-4E TA-4J SH-3G CH-53E |
VU-5(2nd): 16 Aug 1950-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-5(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-31 Aug 1992 |
VC-5 (2nd) Disestablished |
31 August 1992 | NAS Cubi Point | |
VC-6 (third use) |
Skeeters, Firebees |
RQ-2A[86] BQM-74 Other surface and air target drones |
VU-6(2nd): 1 Mar 1952-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-6(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-present[87] (inactive 30 Jun 2008-present) |
VC-6 (3rd) Deactivated |
30 June 2008 | NAS Norfolk Operated target drones (surface and air) and later operated the Pioneer UAV Originally nicknamed "Skeeters" but later adopted "Firebees" to honor VC-6(2nd) Firebees which flew the AJ savage and became VAH-6 Fleurs. | |
VC-7 (third use) |
Redtails | A-4 F-8 F-4 |
VJ-1: 4 Dec 1942-1946 (same sqdn in VJ(1st) section) VU-7: 1946-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-7(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Sep 1980 |
VC-7 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 September 1980 | NAS Miramar Towed targets and provided adversary services for fleet and air combat maneuvering training | |
VC-8 (third use) |
Redtails | A-4 SH-3G |
*GMSR-2: 1 Jul 1958-1 Jul 1960 VU-8: 1 Jul 1960-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-8(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-present[88] (inactive 1 Oct 2003-present) |
VC-8 (3rd) Deactivated |
1 October 2003 | *GMSR: Guided Missile Service Squadron NS Roosevelt Roads | |
VC-10 (second use) |
Challengers | US-2C F-8 TA-4J EA-4F |
VJ-16: 1 Dec 1943-1945 (same sqdn in VJ(1st) section) VU-10: 1945-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-10(2nd): 1 Jul 1965-14 Aug 1993 |
VC-10 (2nd) Disestablished |
14 August 1993 | NAS Leeward Point Guantanamo Bay Provided adversary and aerial target services for Atlantic Fleet carrier battle group deployment work-ups. Also tasked with defense of the Guantanamo base. | |
VC-12 (third use) |
Fighting Omars | A-4 TA-4 |
VC-12(3rd): 1 Sep 1973-22 Apr 1988 VFC-12: 22 Apr 1988-present[89] |
VFC-12 | Not applicable, still active | United States Navy Reserve Squadron NAF Detroit, NAS Oceana Provided "aggressor" services for air to air combat training | |
VC-13 (second use) |
Saints | A-4 TA-4 |
VC-13(2nd): 1 Sep 1973-22 Apr 1988 VFC-13: 22 Apr 1988-present[90] |
VFC-13 | Not applicable, still active | United States Navy Reserve Squadron NAS New Orleans, NAS Miramar Provided "aggressor" services for air to air combat training |
Disestablished Composite Photographic Reconnaissance (VCP) squadrons
[edit]During the history of Naval Aviation, there have been several different designations used to designate photographic reconnaissance squadrons. The first squadrons specifically designated as photographic reconnaissance squadrons were designated during WWII as "Photographic Squadron (VD)". The VD designation was in use from 1943 to 1946. From 1946 to 1948 the VPP designation designated "Photographic Squadron" or "Patrol Squadron (Photographic)". In 1949, two new Photographic Reconnaissance squadrons were established as "Composite Squadrons" VC-61 and VC-62 (see the Disestablished and Deactivated Composite and Fleet Composite (VC) squadrons and VC designations no longer in use section). In 1956 VC-61 and VC-62 were redesignated "Light Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VFP) 61 and 62" (see the VFP squadrons section). The designation "VFP" was used as those two squadrons were then flying lighter fighter type aircraft modified for photographic Reconnaissance. In 1952, two additional reconnaissance squadrons were established, but instead of being designated "Composite Squadron" as were VC-61 and 62, they were designated "Photographic Squadron (VJ)" 61 and 62 (note: the VJ designation, at the same time also designated "Weather Squadron" or "Weather Reconnaissance Squadron"). In 1956 when VC-61 and 62 were redesignated VFP-61 and 62, Photographic Squadrons VJ-61 and VJ-62 were redesignated to "Heavy Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VAP) 61 and 62" (see the VAP section). The designation "VAP" was used because those two squadrons were flying heavier attack type aircraft modified for photographic reconnaissance. For a short period from 1959 to 1961 one VAP squadron and one VFP squadron were redesignated "Photographic Composite Squadron (VCP)" each one flying both a modified fighter type and a modified attack type aircraft but in 1961 they reverted to their previous VAP and VFP designations.[91]
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[w] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[x] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VCP-61 | World Recorders | AJ-2P F8U-1P A3D-2P |
VP-61(4th): 20 Jan 1951-5 Mar 1952 (same sqdn listed in VP section) VJ-61: 5 Mar 1952-Apr 1956 VAP-61(1st): Apr 1956-1 Jul 1959 (same sqdn listed in VAP section) VCP-61: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1961 VAP-61(2nd): 1 Jul 1961-1 Jul 1971 (same sqdn listed in VAP section)[92] |
VAP-61(2nd) Disestablished |
1 July 1971 | ||
VCP-63 | Eyes Of The Fleet | F8U-1P A3D-2P |
VC-61: 20 Jan 1949-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VFP-61:2 Jul 1956-1 Jul 1959 (same sqdn listed in VFP section) VCP-63:1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1961 VFP-63: 1 Jul 1961-30 Jun 1984 (same sqdn listed in VFP section)[76] |
VFP-63 Disestablished |
30 June 1984 |
Disestablished Cruiser Scouting (VCS) squadrons
[edit]The VCS designation was used from 1937 to 1945 to designate "Cruiser Scouting Squadron".[93] These squadrons provided seaplanes to Cruisers to act as scouts and provide spotting for the ships' gunfire. They were catapult launched from the aft deck of the Cruiser and landed on the water and were craned back aboard the Cruiser at the end of the flight. One of these squadrons, VCS-7 was temporarily equipped with Spitfire aircraft on loan from the RAF and operated from a shore base in England to provide naval gunfire spotting in support of the Normandy Invasion.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Established-Disestablished | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
VCS-7 US Navy Cruiser Scouting Squadron Seven | 4Q | RAF Spitfire
Mk Vbs |
May 8, 1944 – June 29, 1944 | RNAS Lee-on-Solent, United Kingdom |
Disestablished Photographic (VD) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Evacuation (VE) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Fighter (VF) squadrons and VF designations no longer in use
[edit]The VF designation was one of the oldest in use by the U.S. Navy. From 1921 to 1948 it designated "Fighting Plane Squadron" or "Fighting Squadron". It designated "Fighter Squadron" from 1948 until 2006 when the last VF squadron was redesignated to Strike Fighter (VFA) squadron.[94] The designation has not been used since 2006. During the time the VF designation was in use there were two periods during which a suffix letter was added after the squadron designation number. From 1927 to 1937 the suffix letter denoted to which fleet the squadron belonged; B for Battle Fleet and S for Scouting Fleet. From 15 November 1946 to as late as 1 September 1948 the suffix letter denoted to which type of Carrier Air Group the squadron belonged: A for those assigned to Essex class carriers (sometimes called "Attack" carriers), B for those assigned to the large Midway class carriers (sometimes called "Battle" carriers), L for those assigned to "light" Independence or Siapan class carriers and E for those assigned to remaining small WWII "escort carriers".[95]
Beginning in 1937, VF squadron designation numbers were determined by the hull number of the aircraft carrier (CV) from which they operated. VF-3 for example belonged to the Saratoga's Air Group as USS Saratoga was CV 3. When the ship named Air Groups were given designation numbers themselves, their designation numbers matched the CV hull numbers, the Saratoga Air Group became Carrier Air Group Three (CVG-3) and CVG-3's VF squadron was VF-3. With the massive build up of WWII the CVG numbers became divorced from CV hull numbers, but the CVG's squadrons were still numbered with the CVG to which they were assigned so, VF-6 was the fighter squadron assigned to CVG-6 and VF-81 was the fighter squadron assigned to CVG-81. Before and during WWII each ship named Air Group and CVG had only one VF squadron assigned so numbering the VF squadron with the ship hull number or CVG designation number worked well. There were a few exceptions and in those cases either a second digit was added (VF-41 and VF-42) or a letter was added (VF-74A and VF-74B), but those instances were rare. After the war the CVG and squadron designation system was changed. CVGs were redesignated CVAG, CVBG, CVLG and CVEG according to the type of aircraft carrier to which they were assigned and they were all designated with odd numbers. Each had two VF squadrons assigned which were designated VF-1A and VF-2A for CVAG-1, VF-3A and VF-4A for CVAG-3, VF-1B and VF-2B for CVBG-1 etc... On 1 Sep 1948 the designation system changed again dropping the "A", "B", "L" and "E" from both the CVG designations and from the squadron designations. CVGs were numbered sequentially beginning with CVG-1 and each had three VF squadrons assigned which were numbered sequentially by using the CVG number followed by a single digit, so CVG-1's VF squadrons were designated VF-11, VF-12 and VF-13 and CVG-11's VF squadrons were designated VF-111, VF-112 and VF-113 etc... Beginning in 1949 most CVGs received a forth VF squadron (VF-14, VF-24, VF-114 etc...). These varied designation systems used though the years resulted in squadron designations being reused for completely unrelated squadrons; take the designations VF-11, VF-12 and VF-13 for example. The first use of each of those designations was used to designate the single VF squadron of each of three different CVGs during WWII, CVG-11, CVG-12 and CVG-13. The second use of those designations designated three VF squadrons of CVG-1 after 1 September 1948.
Throughout this entire period, from pre-WWII to 1965, as squadrons were reassigned from one CVG to another they were redesignated to conform with the numbering system of that CVG. That practice began to be abandoned by the mid 1950s but did not completely cease until 1965. By then, all squadron designation numbers had been "frozen" and were divorced from the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) designation numbers. Later, newly established squadrons were numbered either sequentially (such as VF-1 and VF-2 established in 1972) or were given designation numbers to commemorate a long serving disestablished squadron (VF-191 established in 1986 commemorated a squadron which had existed from 1943 to 1978). This is why today there are squadrons with numbers as low as VFA-2 and as high as VFA-213 with many numbers missing in between.
The table below does not list disestablished squadrons, it is a list of squadron designations which are no longer in use. In most cases a single squadron carried multiple designations between the time it was established and the time it was disestablished, therefore multiple designations in the table belonged to a single squadron. Most of the squadron designations in the table belonged to squadrons which have been disestablished, but also included are former designations of some VFA squadrons which are still active, and one which as been deactivated. This table includes all "VF" designations which have been used by US Navy aircraft squadrons except for those assigned to USNR squadrons which existed before 1970 unless they were activated, in which case they are included. It also does not include 25 "VF(N)" designations (night fighter) which were used between 1943 and 1946.[96] Sorting the table by the "Disestablished as (or current designation)" column will display all designations belonging to a single squadron grouped together, note that many squadrons were designated as both VF and VA squadrons at different times during their existence.
Note: The parenthetical (first use), (second use), (1st), (2nd), (3rd) etc... appended to some designations in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[y] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[97] | Disestablished as (or current designation) |
Disestablished Date | Notes[z] |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Squadrons in operation prior to the beginning of U.S. Navy Aircraft Carrier operations. The Navy's aircraft squadron designation system came into being in the early 1920s. Prior to that time Navy aircraft were assigned to air stations but to fully utilize aviation's potential it was necessary to extend its capabilities to operate with the fleet through the organization of squadrons. Squadrons were numbered according to ship squadron numbers and were designated according to the use of the squadron's aircraft[98] such as "Torpedo" or "Patrol" or "Combat"; however, the official use of abbreviated designations such as VT, VP or VF had not yet been implemented. | |||||||
VF-4[aa] (first use) |
Top Hatters | VE-7 | Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920 VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921 VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921 VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927 VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941 VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943 VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949 VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001 VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001-present |
VFA-14 | Not applicable, still exists | Oldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy | |
Combat Squadron 4[ab] | VE-7 | Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923 VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927 VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937 VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-1 Oct 1945 |
VF-6 (3rd) | 1 October 1945 | |||
1 July 1922 to 1 July 1927: Naval Aviation Organization for FY 1923 issued on 17 June 1922 and implemented on 1 July 1922 changed the numbering of squadrons from according to ship squadron number to serially within each class and listed the squadrons by abbreviated designation (VF, VO, VS, VT) for the first time.[99] USS Langley (CV 1) was commissioned on 20 March 1922, VF-1 and VF-2 (as VF-2B) operated from USS Langley (CV 1) conducting experimentation in the concept of shipborne aviation. | |||||||
VF-1 (first use) |
Top Hatters | VE-7 TS-1 |
Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920 VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921 VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921 VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927 VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941 VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943 VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949 VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001 VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001-present |
VFA-14 | Not applicable, still exists | Oldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy Provided fighters to Battle Ships.[100] Began operating aboard USS Langley (CV 1) in 1926[101] | |
VF-2 (first use) |
VE-7 F6C-2 |
Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923 VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927 VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937 VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-1 Oct 1945 |
VF-6 (3rd) | 1 October 1945 | |||
VF-2B (1923-7) (first use) |
FU-1 F6C-4 |
Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923 VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927 VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937 VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-1 Oct 1945 |
VF-6 (3rd) | 1 October 1945 | Provided fighters to Battle Ships. Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) beginning in 1925. Carrier Aviation's first squadron.[102] Was redesignated VF-6B(1st) on 1 Jan 1927 when a new squadron was established and assigned the designation VF-2(2nd) | ||
VF-2 (1927-42) (second use) |
Flying Chiefs | VE-7 F6C FU-1 [103] |
VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1932 VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1942 |
VF-2 (3rd) | 1 July 1942 | VF-2(2nd) was established with a majority of enlisted pilots, most of them Chief Petty Officers[104] | |
VF-3 (first use) |
VF-3(1st): 1 Jul 1922-May 1924 | VF-3 (1st) | May 1924 | ||||
VF-5 (first use) |
Red Rippers | F6C-3 | VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron | |
VF-6B (first use) |
FU-1 | Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923 VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927 VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937 VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-1 Oct 1945 |
VF-6 (3rd) | 1 October 1945 | VF-2B(1st) was redesignated VF-6B(1st) on 1 Jan 1927 when a new squadron was established and designated VF-2(2nd). Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) | ||
1 July 1927 to 1 July 1937: Suffix letters were added to squadron designations which denoted to which fleet squadrons were assigned: B-Battle Fleet and S-Scouting Fleet.[105] Squadrons were redesignated as they were reassigned between fleets. Four new squadrons were established and three new Aircraft Carriers commissioned; USS Lexington (CV 2) on 14 Dec 1927, USS Saratoga (CV 3) on 16 Nov 1927 and USS Ranger (CV 4) on 4 Jun 1934. Squadrons were assigned variously to the Aircraft Carriers USS Langley (CV 1), USS Lexington (CV 2), USS Saratoga (CV 3) and USS Ranger (CV 4) as needed to continue the development of ship based aircraft operations and tactics. | |||||||
VF-1B (first use) |
Top Hatters | TS-1 F2B F4B |
Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920 VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921 VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921 VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927 VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941 VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943 VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949 VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001 VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001-present |
VFA-14 | Not applicable, still exists | Oldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy. Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) and USS Saratoga (CV 3) | |
VF-1B (1935-7) (second use) |
Shooting Stars | F4B | VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937 VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006 VFA-31: 2006-present |
VFA-31 | Not applicable, still exists | Established and designated VF-1B(2nd) when VF-1B(1st) was redesignated a Bombing (VB) squadron. Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) | |
VF-2B (1927-42) (second use) |
Flying Chiefs[106] | F6C F2B F3B [107] |
VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1932 VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1942 |
VF-2 (3rd) | 1 July 1942 | Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) and USS Lexington (CV 2) | |
VF-2S | Flying Chiefs[108] | F3B | VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1932 VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1942 |
VF-2 (3rd) | 1 July 1942 | Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2) | |
VF-2B (1927-42) (third use) |
Flying Chiefs[109] | F3B | VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1932 VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1942 |
VF-2 (3rd) | 1 July 1942 | Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2) | |
VF-3S (first use) |
Striking Eagles | F6C FB |
VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927-3 Mar 1928 VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931 VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932 VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937 VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-7 Jan 1943 |
VF-5 (2nd) | 7 January 1943 | Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2) | |
VF-3B (first use) |
Striking Eagles | FB F3B |
VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927-3 Mar 1928 VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931 VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932 VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937 VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-7 Jan 1943 |
VF-5 (2nd) | 7 January 1943 | Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2) | |
VF-3S (second use) |
Striking Eagles | F3B | VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927-3 Mar 1928 VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931 VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932 VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937 VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-7 Jan 1943 |
VF-5 (2nd) | 7 January 1943 | Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) | |
VF-3B (second use) |
Striking Eagles | F4B F2F |
VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927-3 Mar 1928 VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931 VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932 VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937 VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-7 Jan 1943 |
VF-5 (2nd) | 7 January 1943 | Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) and USS Ranger (CV 4) | |
VF-5S (first use) |
Red Rippers | F6C-3 | VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron | |
VF-5B (first use) |
Red Rippers | F6C-3 | VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron | |
VF-5B (1930-2) (second use) |
Red Rippers | F4B-1 | VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron. Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2) | |
VF-5S (1932-3) (second use) |
Red Rippers | F4B-1 | VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron. Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2) | |
VF-5B (1933-7) (third use) |
Red Rippers | FF-1 F3F-1 |
VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron. Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2) and USS Ranger (CV 4) | |
VF-6 (first use) |
FU-1 | Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923 VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927 VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937 VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-1 Oct 1945 |
VF-6 (3rd) | 1 October 1945 | Provided fighters to Battle Ships. | ||
VF-6B (1930-7) (second use) |
F2B F3B F2F |
Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923 VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927 VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937 VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-1 Oct 1945 |
VF-6 (3rd) | 1 October 1945 | The Felix the Cat insignia was created by VB-2B and continued in use through VF-6B(2nd), VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(3rd) redesignations. Operated from USS Saratoga (CV 3) | ||
VF-7B | F2F | VF-7B est late Jun 1937 & combined with VF-3B(2nd) VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937 VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-7 Jan 1943 |
VF-5 (2nd) | 7 January 1943 | |||
VF-8B | F4B | VF-8B est late Jun 1937 & combined with VF-1B(2nd) VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937 VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006 VFA-31: 2006-present |
VFA-31 | Not applicable, still exists | |||
1 Jul 1937 through 1 Mar 1943: Squadron suffix letters were discontinued. Squadrons were redesignated to conform with the hull number of the Aircraft Carrier to which they were assigned:[110] CV 2, CV 3, CV 4 and CV 5 (USS Yorktown (CV 5) was commissioned on 30 Sep 1937). USS Langley (CV 1) had ceased operating as an Aircraft Carrier by October 1936 and had been converted to a Seaplane Tender | |||||||
Ship Named Air Groups: On 1 July 1938 existing squadrons were assigned to five newly established "Air Groups" which were established to operate from USS Lexington (CV 2), USS Saratoga (CV 3), USS Ranger (CV 4), USS Yorktown (CV 5) and USS Enterprise (CV 6) (USS Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938). The Air Groups were designated with the Aircraft Carrier's name (Lexington Air Group, Saratoga Air Group etc...) and the squadrons remained designated with the aircraft carrier's hull number (Lexington Air Group: VF-2, Saratoga Air Group: VF-3 etc...). Two new VF squadrons were established in 1939 and 1941 to equip two new Air Groups which were established in 1939 and 1941 to operate with USS Wasp (CV 7) and USS Hornet (CV 8) which were commissioned in 1940 and 1941 respectively | |||||||
VF-2 (1927-42) (third use) |
Flying Chiefs[111] | F2A F4F |
VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1932 VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1942 |
VF-2 (3rd) | 1 July 1942 | Became Lexington Air Group's VF squadron upon Lexington Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938. Lexington Air Group disestablished 8 May 1942 when USS Lexington was sunk | |
VF-3 (1937-43) (second use) |
F2F F4F |
Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923 VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927 VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937 VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-1 Oct 1945 |
VF-6 (3rd) | 1 October 1945 | Became Saratoga Air Group's first VF-3 upon Saratoga Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938. Transferred from Saratoga Air Group to CVG-6(1st) 15 July 43 redesignated VF-6(3rd) The Felix the Cat insignia was created by VB-2B and continued in use through VF-6B(2nd), VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(3rd) redesignations | ||
VF-4 (1937-41) (second use) |
Red Rippers | F3F F4F |
VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron. Became Ranger Air Group's VF squadron upon Ranger Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938 | |
VF-41 (first use) |
Red Rippers | F4F | VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron. VF-4(2nd) was redesignated VF-41 when the group's scouting squadron (VS-4) was redesignated as a second VF squadron in the the Air Group. Ranger Air Group redesignated CVG-4(1st) on 3 Aug 1943 | |
VF-42 (first use) |
F4F | VS-1B: May 1928-1930 VS-1S: 1930-1931 VS-1B: 1931-1 Jul 1937 VS-41(1st): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-42(1st): 15 Mar 1941-22 Jun 1942 |
VF-42 (1st) | 22 June 1942 | Ranger Air Group's scouting squadron (VS-4) was redesigned as a second VF squadron in the Air Group | ||
VF-5 (1937-43) (second use) |
Striking Eagles | F2F F3F F4F |
VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927-3 Mar 1928 VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931 VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932 VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937 VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-7 Jan 1943 |
VF-5 (2nd) | 7 January 1943 | Became Yorktown Air Group's VF squadron upon Yorktown Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938. Yorktown Air Group disestablished 7 Jun 1942 when USS Yorktown was sunk | |
VF-6 (1937-43) (second use) |
Shooting Stars | F3F F4F |
VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937 VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006 VFA-31: 2006-present |
VFA-31 | Not applicable, still exists | Became Enterprise Air Group's VF squadron upon Enterprise Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938. Enterprise Air Group disestablished 1 Sep 1942 while USS Enterprise was undergoing major repairs of damage suffered in Aug 1942. On 15 Mar 1943 CVG-6(1st) was established and the squadron was assigned to it, then four months later was transferred to Saratoga Air Group and became that air group's second VF-3. When it became Saratoga's second VF-3 (VF-3(3rd)) it adopted the felix the cat insignia from Saratoga's first VF-3 (VF-3(2nd)) but that first Saratoga VF-3 also kept the felix the cat insignia when it moved to Enterprise as VF-6(3rd) | |
VF-7 (first use) |
F3F | VF-7(1st): 1 July 1939-19 Nov 1940 VF-72(1st): 19 Nov 1940-29 Mar 1943 |
VF-72 (1st) | 29 March 1943 | Established as Wasp Air Group's VF squadron upon Wasp Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1939 | ||
VF-71 (first use) |
F4F | VB-7: 1 Jul 1939-5 Nov 1940 VF-71(1st): 5 Nov 1940-7 Jan 1943 |
VF-71 (1st) | 7 January 1943 | Wasp Air Group's bombing squadron (VB-7) was redesignated as a second VF squadron in the Air Group. Wasp Air Group disestablished 15 Sep 1942 when USS Wasp was sunk | ||
VF-72 (first use) |
F4F | VF-7(1st): 1 July 1939-19 Nov 1940 VF-72(1st): 19 Nov 1940-29 Mar 1943 |
VF-72 (1st) | 29 March 1943 | VF-7(1st) was redesignated VF-72 when the group's bombing squadron (VB-7) was redesignated as a second VF squadron in the the Air Group. Wasp Air Group disestablished 15 Sep 1942 when USS Wasp was sunk | ||
VF-8 (1941-2) (first use) |
F4F | VF-8(1st): 2 Sep 1941-28 Aug 1942 | VF-8 (1st) | 28 August 1942 | Established as Hornet Air Group's VF squadron in preparation for Hornet Air Group's establishment on 20 October 1941. Hornet Air Group disestablished 26 Oct 1942 when USS Hornet was sunk | ||
Lexington Air Group, Yorktown Air Group, Wasp Air Group and Hornet Air Group were disestablished in 1942 when USS Lexington, USS Yorktown, USS Wasp and USS Hornet were sunk. Enterprise Air Group was disestablished in Sep 1942 while USS Enterprise was undergoing repairs of major damage suffered in Aug 1942 and Saratoga Air Group and Ranger Air Group were redesignated CVG-3 and CVG-4 in Aug and Sep of 1943 respectively. | |||||||
1 Mar 1943 to 15 Nov 1946: The squadron designation system was changed to cease numbering squadrons with the hull number of the ship to which it was assigned and newly established squadrons were numbered serially within each class.[112] One year earlier, on 1 March 1942 new Numbered Carrier Air Groups were established, the first was CVG-9(1st) on 1 Mar 1942. Eighty eight numbered Air Groups were established during the course of WWII: CVGs were assigned to Essex Class "fleet carriers" and to CV 3, CV 4 and CV 6 which were the three pre-WWII Carriers which had not been sunk; CVBGs were assigned to Midway Class "large carriers" toward the end of the war; CVLGs were assigned to Independence class "light carriers"; and CVEGs were assigned to small "escort carriers". Each group's squadrons were all designated with that group's number and each Air Group had one VF squadron assigned. VF-1 belonged to CVG-1 etc...). A squadron reassigned from one group to another was redesignated to conform with the designation of the new group. | |||||||
VF-1 (1943) (second use) |
Fighting Hellcats | F6F | VF-1(2nd): 15 Feb 1943-15 Jul 1943 VF-5(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VF-51(2nd): 16 Aug 1948-31 Mar 1995 |
VF-51 (2nd) | 31 March 1995 | In the first six months of 1943 there were twelve new VF squadrons and eleven new Air Groups established and numbered. In a few cases a squadron was designated intended for one Air Group but assigned to another and redesignated. VF-1(2nd) was established in Feb but redesignated VF-5(3rd) on 15 July 1943 and assigned to CVG-5(1st) which had been established on 1 Jan 1943 | |
VF-1 (1943-5) (third use) |
High Hatters | F6F | VF-4(3rd): 1 May 1943-15 Jul 1943 VF-1(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-25 Oct 1945 |
VF-1 (3rd) | 25 October 1945 | In the first six months of 1943 there were twelve new VF squadrons and eleven new Air Groups established and numbered. In a few cases a squadron was designated intended for one Air Group but assigned to another and redesignated. VF-4(3rd) was established in May but redesignated VF-1(3rd) on 15 July 1943 and assigned to CVG-1(1st) which had been established on 1 May 1943. CVG-1(1st) disestablished 25 Oct 1945. In 1934 the original VF-4 (by then the original VF-1) "Top Hatters" was redesignated as a Bombing Squadron (VB). The "Top Hatters" were still a VB squadron when this squadron was established as VF-4 and the name and insignia adopted by this VF squadron very closely imitated the name and insignia of that original VF-4/original VF-1 | |
VF-2 (1943-5) (fourth use) |
Rippers[113] | FM-1 F6F |
VF-2(4th): 1 Jun 1943-9 Nov 1945 | VF-2 (4th) | 9 November 1945 | CVG-2(1st) established 1 Jun 1943, disestablished 9 Nov 1945 | |
VF-3 (1943-6) (third use) |
Shooting Stars | F6F | VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937 VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006 VFA-31: 2006-present |
VFA-31 | Not applicable, still exists | Saratoga Air Group's second VF-3 until 25 Sep 1943 when Saratoga Air Group was redesignated CVG-3(1st) at which time the squadron became the VF squadron of CVG-3(1st). CVG-3(1st) redesignated CVAG-3 15 Nov 1946. On 15 Jul 1943 VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(2nd) swapped designations with VF-3(2nd) becoming VF-6(3rd) and VF-6(2nd) becoming VF-3(3rd). The new VF-3(3rd) laid claim to VF-3(2nd)'s Felix the Cat insignia and both squadrons used it until the original owner (then VF-6(3rd)) was disestablished leaving it with VF-3(3rd) which was later redesignated VF-3A, VF-31(2nd) and is today VFA-31. | |
VF-4 (1943-5) (third use) |
High Hatters | F6F | VF-4(3rd): 1 May 1943-15 Jul 1943 VF-1(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-25 Oct 1945 |
VF-1 (3rd) | 25 October 1945 | In the first six months of 1943 there were twelve new VF squadrons and eleven new Air Groups established and numbered. In a few cases a squadron was designated intended for one Air Group but assigned to another and redesignated. VF-4(3rd) was established in May but redesignated VF-1(3rd) on 15 July 1943 and assigned to CVG-1(1st) which had been established on 1 May 1943. In 1934 the original VF-4 (by then the original VF-1) "Top Hatters" was redesignated as a Bombing Squadron (VB). The "Top Hatters" were still a VB squadron when this squadron was established as VF-4 and the name and insignia adopted by this VF squadron very closely imitated the name and insignia of that original VF-4/original VF-1 | |
VF-4 (1943-6) (fourth use) |
Red Rippers | F4F F6F |
VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron. Ranger Air Group was redesignated CVG-4(1st) on 3 Aug 1942 and its VF squadron, VF-41(1st) was redesignated VF-4(4th). CVG-4(1st) redesignated CVAG-1 15 Nov 1946 | |
VF-5 (1943-6) (third use) |
(Adopted from disestablished VF-5(2nd)) |
Fighting Hellcats Screaming Eagles |
F6F F4U |
VF-1(2nd): 15 Feb 1943-15 Jul 1943 VF-5(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VF-51(2nd): 16 Aug 1948-31 Mar 1995 |
VF-51 (2nd) | 31 March 1995 | In the first six months of 1943 there were twelve new VF squadrons and eleven new Air Groups established and numbered. In a few cases a squadron was designated intended for one Air Group but assigned to another and redesignated. VF-1(2nd) was established in Feb but redesignated VF-5(3rd) on 15 July 1943 and assigned to CVG-5(1st) which had been established on 1 Jan 1943. CVG-5(1st) redesignated CVAG-5 15 Nov 1946 |
VF-6 (1943-4) (third use) |
F4F | Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923 VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927 VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937 VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-1 Oct 1945 |
VF-6 (3rd) | 1 October 1946 | Replaced VF-6(2nd) in CVG-6(1st) when VF-6(2nd) was moved to Saratoga Air Group. CVG-6(1st) disestablished 29 Oct 1945. The Felix the Cat insignia was created by VB-2B and continued in use through VF-6B(2nd), VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(3rd) redesignations | ||
VF-7 (1944-6) (second use) |
F6F | VF-7(2nd) 3 Jan 1944-8 Jun 1946 | VF-7 (2nd) | 8 June 1946 | CVG-7(1st) established 3 Jan 1944, disestablished 8 Jul 1946 | ||
VF-8 (1943-5) (second use) |
Hellcats | F6F | VF-8(2nd) 1 Jun 1943-23 Nov 1945 | VF-8 (2nd) | 23 November 1945 | CVG-8(1st) established 1 Jun 1943, disestablished 23 Nov 1945 | |
VF-9 | F2A F4F F6F |
VF-9: 1 Mar 1942-28 Sep 1945 | VF-9 | 28 September 1945 | CVG-9(1st) established 1 Mar 1942, disestablished 15 Oct 1945 | ||
VF-10 | Grim Reapers | F4F F6F F4U |
VF-10: 3 Jun 1942-26 Nov 1945 |
VF-10 | 26 November 1945 | CVG-10(1st) established 16 Apr 1942, disestablished 16 Nov 1945 | |
VF-11 (first use) |
Sundowners | F4F F6F |
VF-11(1st): 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946 VF-11A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-111(1st)15 Jul 1948-19 Jan 1959 |
VF-111 (1st) | 19 Jan 1959 | CVG-11(1st) established 10 Oct 1942, redesignated CVAG-11 15 Nov 1946. First "Sundowners" squadron, name and insignia created by VF-11(1st) and carried through VF-11A and VF-111(1st) redesignations | |
VF-12 (first use) |
F6F | VF-12(1st): 9 Jan 1943-17 Sep 1945 | VF-12 (1st) | 17 September 1945 | CVG-12(1st) established 9 Jan 1943, disestablished 17 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-13 (first use) |
Black Cats | F6F | VF-13(1st): 2 Nov 1943-20 Oct 1945 | VF-13 (1st) | 20 October 1945 | CVG-13(1st) established 2 Nov 1943, disestablished 20 Oct 1945 | |
VF-14 (first use) |
F6F | VF-14(1st): 1 Sep 1943-14 Jun 1946 | VF-14 (1st) | 14 June 1946 | CVG-14(1st) established 1 Sep 1943, disestablished 14 Jun 1945 | ||
VF-15 | Satan's Playmates | F6F | VF-15: 1 Sep 1943-20 Oct 1945 | VF-15 | 20 October 1945 | CVG-15(1st) established 1 Sep 1942, disestablished 20 Oct 1945 | |
VF-16 | Fighting Airedales | F6F | VF-16: 16 Nov 1942-6 Nov 1945 | VF-16 | 6 November 1945 | CVG-16(1st) established 16 Nov 1942, disestablished 6 Nov 1945 | |
VF-17 | Jolly Rogers | F4U-1 F6F-5 |
VF-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-5B(4th): 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-61: 28 Jul 1948-15 Apr 1959 |
VF-61 | 15 April 1959 | CVG-17(1st) established 1 Jan 1943, redesignated CVBG-17 23 Jan 1946, redesignated CVBG-5 14 Nov 1946. Original "Jolly Rogers" squadron. Name carried through VF-5B(4th) and VF-61 redesignations | |
VF-18 (first use) |
F6F | VF-18: 20 Jul 1943-5 Mar 1944 | VF-18 (1st) | 5 March 1944 | CVG-18 established 2 Jul 1943 | ||
VF-18 (1944-6) (second use) |
F4F F6F F8F |
VGS-18: 15 Oct 1942-1 Mar 1943 VC-18: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-36(1st): 15 Aug 1943-5 Mar 1944 VF-18(2nd): 5 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-7A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-71(2nd): 28 Jul 1948-31 Mar 1959 |
VF-71 (2nd) | 31 March 1959 | Replaced VF-18(1st) in CVG-18. CVG-18 redesignated CVAG-7 15 Nov 1946 | ||
VF-19 | Satan's Kittens | F6F | VF-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-19A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948 VF-191(1st): 24 Aug 1948-1 Mar 1978 |
VF-191 (1st) | 1 March 1978 | CVG-19(1st) established 1 Aug 1943, redesignated CVAG-19 15 Nov 1946 | |
VF-20 | (1946) |
Jokers | F6F | VF-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VF-91(1st): 12 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-34(3rd): 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1955 VA-34(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jun 1969 |
VA-34 (2nd) | 1 June 1969 | CVG-20 established 15 Oct 1943, redesignated CVAG-9 15 Nov 1946 |
VF-21 (first use) |
F4F F6F |
VGS-11: 5 Aug 1942-1 Mar 1943 VC-11(1st): 1 Mar 1943-16 May 1943 VF-21(1st): 16 May 1943-5 Nov 1945 |
VF-21 (1st) | 5 November 1945 | CVLG-21 stablished 15 May 1943, disestablished 5 Nov 1945 | ||
VF-22 (1942-5) (first use) |
F4F F6F |
VF-22(1st): 30 Sep 1942-19 Sep 1945 | VF-22 (1st) | 19 September 1945 | CVLG-22 established 30 Sep 1943, disestablished 15 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-23 (1942-5) (first use) |
F6F | VF-23(1st): 16 Nov 1942-19 Sep 1945 | VF-23 (1st) | 19 September 1945 | CVLG-23 established 16 Nov 1942, disestablished 19 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-24 (1942-5) (first use) |
F6F | VF-24(1st) 31 Dec 1942-25 Sep 1945 | VF-24 (1st) | 25 September 1945 | CVLG-24 established 31 Dec 1942, disestablished 25 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-25 | F6F | VF-25: 15 Feb 1943-20 Sep 1945 | VF-25 | 20 September 1945 | CVLG-25 established 15 Feb 1943, redesignated CVEG-25 28 Aug 1944, disestablished 20 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-26 (first use) |
F4F | VGF-26: 4 May 1942-1 Mar 1943 VF-26(1st): 1 Mar 1943-13 Nov 1945 |
VF-26 (1st) | 13 November 1945 | In 1943 all "Escort-Fighter squadrons" (VGF) assigned to Escort or Light Carrier Air Groups (CVEG, CVLG) were redesignated Fighting Squadrons (VF). CVEG-26 established 4 May 1942, disestablished 13 Nov 1945 | ||
VF-27 | F4F F6F |
VGF-27: 22 Apr 1942-1 Mar 1943 VF-27: 1 Mar 1943-26 Nov 1945 |
VF-27 | 26 November 1945 | In 1943 all "Escort-Fighter squadrons" (VGF) assigned to Escort or Light Carrier Air Groups (CVEG, CVLG) were redesignated Fighting Squadrons (VF). CVLG-27 established 1 Mar 1942, disestablished 26 Oct 1945 | ||
VF-28 | F4F F6F |
VGF-28: 4 May 1942-1 Mar 1943 VF-28: 1 Mar 1943-6 Nov 1945 |
VF-28 | 6 November 1945 | In 1943 all "Escort-Fighter squadrons" (VGF) assigned to Escort or Light Carrier Air Groups (CVEG, CVLG) were redesignated Fighting Squadrons (VF). CVLG-28 established 6 May 1942, disestablished 6 Nov 1945 | ||
VF-29 | F4F F6F |
VGF-29: 20 Jul 1942-1 Mar 1943 VF-29: 1 Mar 1943-10 Sep 1945 |
VF-29 | 10 September 1945 | In 1943 all "Escort-Fighter squadrons" (VGF) assigned to Escort or Light Carrier Air Groups (CVEG, CVLG) were redesignated Fighting Squadrons (VF). CVLG-29 established 18 Jul 1942, disestablished 10 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-30 | F6F | VF-30: 1 Apr 1943-12 Sep 1945 | VF-30 | 12 September 1945 | CVLG-30 establised 1 Apr 1943, disestablished 12 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-31 (1943-5) (first use) |
F6F | VF-31: 1 May 1943-25 Oct 1945 | VF-31 (1st) | 25 October 1945 | CVLG-31 established 1 May 1943, disestablished 28 Oct 1945 | ||
VF-32 (1943-5) (first use) |
F6F | VF-32(1st): 1 Jun 1943-13 Nov 1945 | VF-32 (1st) | 13 November 1945 | CVLG-32 established 1 Jun 1943, disestablished 13 Nov 1945 | ||
VF-33 (1942-5) (first use) |
Hellcats | F6F | VGS-16: 6 Aug 1942-1 Mar 1943 VC-16: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-33(1st): 15 Aug 1943-9 Nov 1945 |
VF-33 (1st) | 19 November 1945 | CVEG-33 established 15 May 1944, disestablished 19 Nov 1945 | |
VF-34 (first use) |
F6F | VGS-34: 24 Feb 1943-1 Mar 1943 VC-34(1st): 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-34(1st): 15 Aug 1943-8 Jul 1944 |
VF-34 (1st) | 8 July 1944 | |||
VF-34 (1945) (second use) |
F6F | VF-34(2nd): 1 Apr 1945-5 Dec 1945 | VF-34 (2nd) | 5 December 1945 | CVLG-34 established 1 Apr 1945, disestablished 5 Dec 1945 | ||
VF-35 | F6F | VF-35: 15 Jul 1943-19 Nov 1945 | VF-35 | 19 November 1945 | CVEG-35 established 15 Jul 1943, disestablished 5 Dec 1945 | ||
VF-36 (first use) |
F4F | VGS-18: 15 Oct 1942-1 Mar 1943 VC-18: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-36(1st): 15 Aug 1943-5 Mar 1944 VF-18(2nd): 5 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-7A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-71(2nd): 28 Jul 1948-31 Mar 1959 |
VF-71 (2nd) | 31 March 1959 | |||
VF-36 (1944-6) (second use) |
F6F | VF-36: 15 May 1944-28 Jan 1946 | VF-36 (2nd) | 28 January 1946 | CVEG-36 established 15 May 1944, disestablished 28 Jan 1946 | ||
VF-37 | F6F | VF-37: 15 July 1943-20 Dec 1945 | VF-37 | 20 December 1945 | CVEG-37 established 15 Jul 1943, disestablished 20 Dec 1945 | ||
VF-38 | F6F | VF-38: 20 Jun 1943-31 Jan 1946 | VF-38 | 31 January 1946 | CVLG established 16 Jun 1943, redesignated CVEG-38 15 Aug 1944, disestablished 31 Jan 1946 | ||
VF-39 (first use) |
F6F | VC-64: 1 Jun 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-39(1st): 15 Aug 1943-15 Jul 1944 |
VF-39 (1st) | 15 July 1944 | |||
VF-39 (1945) (second use) |
F6F | VF-39(2nd): 15 Mar 1945-10 Sep 1945 | VF-39 (2nd) | 10 September 1945 | CVEG established 15 Mar 1945, redesignated CVLG-39 2 Jul 1945, disestablished 10 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-40 | F6F | VF-40: 15 Jun 1943-19 Nov 1945 | VF-40 | 19 November 1945 | CVEG-40 established 15 Jun 1943, disestablished 19 Nov 1945 | ||
VF-41 (1945-6) (second use) |
Firebirds | FR-1 | VF-41(2nd): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-1E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-1(4th): 1 Sep 1948-20 Nov 1948 |
VF-1 (4th) | 20 November 1948 | CVEG-41 established 26 Mar 1945, redesignated CVEG-1 15 Nov 1946 | |
VF-42 (1945-6) (second use) |
F6F | VF-42(2nd) 19 Jul 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-2E: 15 Nov 1946-15 Sep 1948 VF-81(2nd): 15 Sep 1948-17 Jan 1950 |
VF-81 (2nd) | 17 January 1959 | CVEG-42 established 15 Jul 1945, redesignated CVEG-2 15 Nov 1946 | ||
VF-43 (1943) (first use) |
VF-43(1st): 1 Aug 1943-8 Nov 1943 | VF-43 (1st) | 8 November 1943 | CVLG-43 established 1 Aug 1943, disestablished 8 Nov 1943 | |||
VF-43 (1945-6) (second use) |
VF-43(2nd): 9 Aug 1945-17 Jun 1946 | VF-43 (2nd) | 17 June 1946 | CVEG-43 established 9 Aug 1945, disestablished 17 Jun 1946 | |||
VF-44 (first use) |
F6F | VF-44(1st): on 1 Feb 1944-18 Sep 1945 | VF-44 (1st) | 18 September 1945 | CVLG-44 established 1 Feb 1944, disestablished 18 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-45 (first use) |
Gamecocks | F6F | VF-45(1st): 1 Apr 1944-10 Sep 1945 | VF-45 (1st) | 10 September 1945 | CVLG-45 established 1 Apr 1944, disestablished 10 Sep 1945 | |
VF-46 | Men-O-War | F6F | VF-46: 15 Apr 1944-14 Sep 1945 | VF-46 | 14 September 1945 | CVLG-46 established 15 Apr 1944, disestablished 14 Sep 1945 | |
VF-47 | F6F | VF-47: on 15 May 1944-21 Sep 1945 | VF-47 | 21 September 1945 | CVLG-47 established 15 Apr 1944, disestablished 21 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-48 | F6F | VF-48: on 15 Jun 1944- 2 Jan 1945 | VF-48 | 2 January 1945 | CVLG-48 established 1 Jun 1944, disestablished 2 Jan 1945 | ||
VF-49 | F6F | VF-49: 10 Aug 1944-27 Nov 1945 | VF-49 | 27 November 1945 | CVEG established 10 Aug 1944, redesignated CVLG-49 1 Jan 1945, disestablished 27 Nov 1945 | ||
VF-50 | F6F | VF-50: 10 Aug 1943-29 Oct 1945 | VF-50 | 29 October 1945 | CVLG established 10 Aug 1944, redesignated CVEG-50 1 Oct 1944, disestablished 29 Oct 1945 | ||
VF-51 (first use) |
F6F | VF-51(1st): 22 Sep 1943-13 Nov 1945 | VF-51 (1st) | 13 November 1945 | CVLG-51 established 22 Sep 1943, disestablished 13 Nov 1945 | ||
VF-52 (1943) (first use) |
VF-52(1st): 1 Sep 1943-8 Nov 1943 | VF-52 (1st) | 8 November 1943 | CVLG-52 established 1 Sep 1943, disestablished 8 Nov 1943 | |||
VF-52 (1945) (second use) |
VF-52(2nd): 6 Jan 1945-25 May 1945 | VF-52 (2nd) | 25 May 1945 | VF squadron assigned to Night Carrier Air Group (CVG(N)) 52 from 6 Jan to 25 May 1945 alongside specialized night fighter VF(N) and night torpedo VT(N) squadrons. CVLG(N)52 established 20 Oct 1944, redesignated, CVG(N)-52 6 Jan 1945, disestablished 15 Dec 1945 | |||
VF-53 (first use) |
F6F | VF-53(1st): 2 Jan 1945-1 Apr 1945 |
VF-53 (1st) | 1 April 1945 | VF squadron assigned to Night Carrier Air Group (CVG(N)) 53 from 2 Jan to 1 Apr 1945 alongside specialized night fighter VF(N) and night torpedo VT(N) squadrons. CVG(N)-53 established 2 Jan 1945, disestablished 11 Jun 1945 | ||
VF-58 | F6F | VF-58: 15 Mar 1946-15 Nov 1946 VF-1L: 15 Nov 1946-20 Nov 1948 |
VF-1L | 20 November 1948 | CVLG-58 established 19 Mar 1946, redesignated CVLG-1 15 Nov 1946 | ||
VF-60 | F6F | VF-60: 15 Jul 1943-19 Nov 1945 | VF-60 | 19 November 1945 | CVEG-60 established 15 Jul 1943, disestablished 19 Nov 1945 | ||
VF-66 | Firebirds | FR-1 | VF-66: 1 Jan 1945-18 Oct 1945 | VF-66 | 18 October 1945 | CVEG-66 established 1 Jan 1945, disestablished 16 Jun 1945 | |
VF-74 (1944) (first use) |
F6F | VF-74(1st): 25 Mar 1944-1 Oct 1944 | VF-74 (1st) | 1 October 1944 | |||
VF-74A | F4U | VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973 VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973-1 Jul 1994 |
VF-43 (5th) | 1 July 1994 | CVBG-74 established 1 May 1945 assigned to a "new" large Midway class carrier and was initially assigned two VF squadrons, VF-74A and VF-74B | ||
VF-74B | VF-74B: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945 | VF-74B | 1 August 1945 | CVBG-74 established 1 May 1945 assigned to a "new" large Midway class carrier and was initially assigned two VF squadrons, VF-74A and VF-74B | |||
VF-74 (1945-6) (second use) |
F4U | VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973 VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973-1 Jul 1994 |
VF-43 (5th) | 1 July 1994 | The air group's second VF squadron (VF-74B) was disestablished and remaining squadron (VF-74A) was redesignated VF-74 as the single VF squadron of CVBG-74. CVBG-74 redesignated CVBG-1 15 Nov 1946 | ||
VF-75A | Gay Blades | F4U | VF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-3B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-41(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-Jun 1950 |
VF-41 (3rd) | June 1950 | CVBG-75 established 1 Jun 1945 assigned to a "new" large Midway class carrier and was initially assigned two VF squadrons, VF-75A and VF-75B | |
VF-75B | VF-75B: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945 | VF-75B | 1 August 1945 | CVBG-75 established 1 Jun 1945 assigned to a "new" large Midway class carrier and was initially assigned two VF squadrons, VF-75A and VF-75B | |||
VF-75 | Gay Blades | F4U | VF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-3B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-41(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-Jun 1950 |
VF-41 (3rd) | June 1950 | The air group's second VF squadron (VF-75B) was disestablished and remaining squadron (VF-75A) was redesignated VF-75 as the single VF squadron of CVBG-75. CVBG-75 redesignated CVBG-3 14 Nov 1946 | |
VF-80 | Vipers | F6F-5 | VF-80: 1 Feb 1944-16 Sep 1946 | VF-80 | 16 September 1946 | CVG-80 established 1 Feb 1944, disestablished 16 Sep 1946 | |
VF-81 (first use) |
Freelancers | F6F | VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-64: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1959 VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959-31 Jan 1996 |
VF-21 (3rd) | 31 January 1996 | CVG-81 established 1 Mar 1944, redesignated CVAG-13 15 Nov 1946 | |
VF-82 (first use) |
Fighting Fools | F8F | VF-82(1st): 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-17A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VF-171(1st): 11 Aug 1948-15 Mar 1958 |
VF-171 (1st) | 15 April 1958 | CVG-82 established 1 Apr 1944, redesignated CVAG-17 15 Nov 1946 | |
VF-83 (first use) |
F6F-5 | VF-83(1st): 1 May 1944-24 Sep 1945 | VF-83 (1st) | 24 September 1945 | CVG-83 1 May 1944, disestablished 24 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-84 (first use) |
Wolf Gang | F4U F6F |
VF-84(1st): 1 May 1944-8 Oct 1945 | VF-84 (1st) | 8 October 1945 | CVG-84 established 1 May 1944, disestablished 8 Oct 1945 | |
VF-85 | F4U F6F |
VF-85: 1 May 1944-27 Sep 1945 | VF-85 | 27 September 1945 | CVG-85 established 15 May 1944, disestablished 27 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-86 | F6F | VF-86: 15 Jun 1944-21 Nov 1945 | VF-86 | 21 November 1945 | CVG-86 established 15 Jun 1944, disestablished 21 Not 1945 | ||
VF-87 | F6F | VF-87: 1 Jul 1944-2 Nov 1945 | VF-87 | 2 November 1945 | CVG-87 established 1 Jul 1944, disestablished 2 Nov 1945 | ||
VF-88 | F6F | VF-88: 15 Aug 1944-29 Oct 1945 | VF-88 | 29 October 1945 | CVG-88 established 18 Aug 1944, disestablished 29 Oct 1945 | ||
VF-89 | F4U | VF-89: 2 Oct 1944-27 Apr 1946 | VF-89 | 27 April 1946 | CVG-89 established 2 Oct 1944, disestablished 27 Apr 1946 | ||
VF-92 (1944-5) (first use) |
Hells Kittens | F6F | VF-92(1st): 1 Dec 1944-18 Dec 1945 | VF-92 (1st) | 18 December 1945 | CVG-92 established 2 Dec 1944, disestablished 18 Dec 1945 | |
VF-93 (1944-6) (first use) |
Polecats | F6F | VF-93(1st): 15 Dec 1944-30 Apr 1946 | VF-93 (1st) | 30 April 1946 | CVG-93 established 21 Dec 1944, disestablished 30 Apr 1946 | |
VF-94 (1944-5) (first use) |
Tough Kitties | F6F | VF-94(1st): 15 Nov 1944-7 Nov 1945 | VF-94 (1st) | 7 November 1945 | CVG-94 established 15 Nov 1944, disestablished 7 Nov 1945 | |
VF-95 | F4U | VF-95: 2 Jan 1945-31 Oct 1945 | VF-95 | 31 October 1945 | CVG-95 established 2 Jan 1945, disestablished 31 Oxt 1945 | ||
VF-97 | VF-97: 1 Nov 1944-31 Mar 1946 | VF-97 | 31 March 1946 | CVG-97 established 1 Nov 1944, disestablished 31 Mar 1946 | |||
VF-98 | F4U | VF-98: 28 Aug 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-21A: 15 Nov 1946-5 Aug 1947 |
VF-21A | 5 August 1947 | CVG-98 established 28 Aug 1944, redesignated CVAG-21 15 Nov 1946 | ||
VF-99 | F4U | VF-99: 15 Jul 1944-6 Sep 1945 | VF-99 | 6 September 1945 | CVG-99 established 15 Jul 1944, disestablished 8 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-100 | F4U | VF-100: 1 Apr 1944-20 Feb 1946 | VF-100 | 20 February 1946 | CVG-100 established 1 Apr 1944, disestablished 20 Feb 1946 | ||
VF-150 | F4U | VF-150: 22 Jan 1945-2 Nov 1945 | VF-150 | 2 November 1945 | CVG-150 established 22 Jan 1945, disestablished 2 Nov 1946 | ||
VF-151 (1945) (first use) |
F4U | VF-151(1st): 12 Feb 1945-6 Oct 1945 | VF-151 (1st) | 6 October 1945 | CVG-151 established 12 Feb 1945, disestablished 6 Oct 1945 | ||
VF-152 (first use) |
F4U | VF-152(1st) 5 Mar 1945-21 Sep 1945 | VF-152 (1st) | 21 September 1945 | CVG-152 established 5 Mar 1945, disestablished 21 Sep 1945 | ||
VF-153 (first use) |
Fightin' Kangaroos | F6F | VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-15 Mar 1956 VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1986 VFA-192: 10 Jan 1986-present |
VFA-192 | Not applicable, still exists | CVG-153 established 26 Mar 1945, redesignated CVAG-15 15 Nov 1946 | |
VF-301 (1944) (first use) |
VF-301(1st): 3 Jan 1944-1 Aug 1944 | VF-301 (1st) | 1 August 1944 | ||||
VF-302 (1944) (first use) |
VF-302(1st): 15 Jan 1944-1 Aug 1944 | VF-302 (1st) | 1 August 1944 | ||||
VF-303 | VF-303: 1 Mar 1944-4 May 1944 | VF-303 | 4 May 1944 | ||||
A new Squadron and Air Group designation scheme was established in 1946. Squadron designation suffix letters denoted to which type of Carrier Air Group (CVAG, CVBG, CVLG or CVEG) the squadron was assigned: A-CVAG aboard Essex class (attack) carriers, B-CVBG aboard Midway class (battle) carriers, L-CVLG aboard Independence or Saipan class (light) carriers or E-CVEG aboard remaining WWII escort carriers. CVAGs and CVBGs were designated with odd numbers and each was assigned two VF squadrons with the first carrying the Air Group's number and the second the next consecutive even number (CVAG-1: VF-1A, VF-2A; CVBG-1: VF-1B, VF-2B; CVAG-7: VF-7A, VF-8A; CVAG-11; VF-11A, VF-12A etc...) | |||||||
VF-1A | Red Rippers | F8F | VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron. 1st VF squadron of CVAG-1 | |
VF-1B (1946-8) (third use) |
F4U F8F |
VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973 VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973-1 Jul 1994 |
VF-43 (5th) | 1 July 1994 | 1st VF squadron of CVBG-1 | ||
VF-1E | Firebirds | FR-1 F6F |
VF-41(2nd): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-1E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-1(4th): 1 Sep 1948-20 Nov 1948 |
VF-1 (4th) | 20 November 1948 | Only VF squadron of CVEG-1 | |
VF-1L | F6F F8F |
VF-58: 15 Mar 1946-15 Nov 1946 VF-1L: 15 Nov 1946-20 Nov 1948 |
VF-1L | 20 November 1948 | Only VF squadron of CVLG-1. Assets merged with VA-1L in Nov 1948 to form second squadron designated VX-3 | ||
VF-2A | Ubangis | F6F F4U F8F |
VBF-4: 12 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-2A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-12(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-1 Aug 1955 VA-12: 1 Aug 1955-1 Oct 1986 |
VA-12 | 1 October 1986 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-1 | |
VF-2B (1946-8) (fourth use) |
F4U | VBF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945 VBF-74: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-2B(4th): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-22(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-6 Jun 1958 |
VF-22 (2nd) | 6 June 1958 | 2nd VF squadron of CVBG-1 | ||
VF-2E | F6F F8F |
VF-42(2nd) 19 Jul 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-2E: 15 Nov 1946-15 Sep 1948 VF-81(2nd): 15 Sep 1948-17 Jan 1950 |
VF-81 (2nd) | 17 January 1950 | Only VF squadron of CVEG-2 | ||
VF-3A | Shooting Stars | F6F | VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937 VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006 VFA-31: 2006-present |
VFA-31 | Not applicable, still exists | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-3. On 15 Jul 1943 VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(2nd) swapped designations with VF-3(2nd) becoming VF-6(3rd) and VF-6(2nd) becoming VF-3(3rd). The new VF-3(3rd) laid claim to VF-3(2nd)'s Felix the Cat insignia and both squadrons used it until the original owner (then VF-6(3rd)) was disestablished leaving it with VF-3(3rd) which was later redesignated VF-3A, VF-31(2nd) and is today VFA-31. The "Tomcatters" nickname was instituted with redesignation to VF-31 | |
VF-3B (1946-8) (third use) |
Gay Blades | F4U | VF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-3B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-41(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-Jun 1950 |
VF-41 (3rd) | June 1950 | 1st VF squadron of CVBG-3 | |
VF-3E | F8F | VF-3E: 21 Apr 1947-15 Sep 1948 VF-82(2nd): 15 Sep 1948-29 Nov 1949 |
VF-82 (2nd) | 29 November 1949 | Only VF squadron of CVEG-3 | ||
VF-4A | White Lightning | F8F | VBF-3: 1 Feb 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-4A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-32(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-Nov 2005 VFA-32: Nov 2005-present |
VFA-32 | 15 February 1959 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-3. Because VBF-3 was established by being split out VF-3(3rd) the squadron originally called themselves the "Crazy Cats" and used the Felix the Cat insignia which made them the third squadron along with VF-3(3rd) and VF-6(3rd) to use the Felix the Cat insignia at the same time. As VF-4A the squadron abandoned the Felix the Cat insignia, called themselves "White Lightining" and created a new insignia. | |
VF-4B | Green Pawns | F4U | VBF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945 VBF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-4B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-42(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-8 Jun 1950 |
VF-42 (3rd) | 8 June 1950 | 2nd VF squadron of CVBG-3. The "Green Pawns" insignia was first approved for use by VBF-75 and was carried through the redesignations to VF-4B and VF-42(3rd) | |
VF-5A | Screaming Eagles | F8F FJ-1 |
VF-1(2nd): 15 Feb 1943-15 Jul 1943 VF-5(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VF-51(2nd): 16 Aug 1948-31 Mar 1995 |
VF-51 (2nd) | 31 March 1995 | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-5 | |
VF-5B (1946-8) (fourth use) |
Jolly Rogers | F4U-4 F8F-2 |
VF-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-5B(4th): 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-61: 28 Jul 1948-15 Apr 1959 |
VF-61 | 15 April 1959 | 1st VF squadron of CVBG-5. Original "Jolly Rogers" squadron. Name created by VF-17 and carried through VF-5B(4th) and VF-61 redesignations | |
VF-6A | Knightriders | F4U-4 | VBF-5: 8 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-6A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VF-52(3rd): 16 Aug 1948-23 Feb 1959 |
VF-52 (3rd) | 23 February 1959 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-5 | |
VF-6B (1946-8) (third use) |
F4U F8F |
VBF-17: 2 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-6B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-62(1st): 28 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1955 VA-106(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-7 Nov 1969 |
VA-106 (2nd) | 7 November 1969 | 2nd VF squadron of CVBG-5 | ||
VF-7A | F8F | VGS-18: 15 Oct 1942-1 Mar 1943 VC-18: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-36(1st): 15 Aug 1943-5 Mar 1944 VF-18(2nd): 5 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-7A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-71(2nd): 28 Jul 1948-31 Mar 1959 |
VF-71 (2nd) | 31 March 1959 | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-7 | ||
VF-8A | Bearcats | F8F | VBF-18: 25 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-8A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-72(2nd): 28 Jul 1948-3 Jan 1956 VA-72: 3 Jan 1956-30 Jun 1991 |
VA-72 | 30 June 1991 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-7 | |
VF-9A | Jokers | F6F F8F |
VF-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VF-91(1st): 12 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-34(3rd): 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1955 VA-34(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jun 1969 |
VA-34 (2nd) | 1 June 1969 | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-9 | |
VF-10A | Adopted in 1948 |
Be-Devilers (Adopted in 1948) | F8F | VBF-20: 16 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-10A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VF-92(2nd): 12 Aug 1948-15 Jan 1950 VF-74(3rd): 15 Jan 1950-30 Apr 1994 |
VF-74 (3rd) | 30 Apr 1994 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-9 |
VF-11A | Sundowners | F8F | VF-11(1st): 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946 VF-11A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-111(1st)15 Jul 1948-19 Jan 1959 |
VF-111 (1st) | 19 January 1959 | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-11. First "Sundowners" squadron, name and insignia created by VF-11(1st) and carried through VF-11A and VF-111(1st) redesignations | |
VF-12A | F6F F8F |
VBF-11: 9 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-12A: 15 Nov 1946-15 July 1948 VF-112: 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1959 VA-112: 15 Feb 1959-10 Oct 1969 |
VA-112 | 10 October 1969 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-11 | ||
VF-13A | Freelancers | F4U | VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-64: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1959 VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959-31 Jan 1996 |
VF-21 (3rd) | 31 January 1996 | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-13 | |
VF-14A | F4U F8F |
VBF-81: 13 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-14A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-132(1st): 2 Aug 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VF-132 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-13 | ||
VF-15A | Black Knights | F6F F8F |
VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-15 Mar 1956 VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1986 VFA-192: 10 Jan 1986-present |
VFA-192 | Not applicable, still exists | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-15 | |
VF-16A | (1948) |
Copperheads | F6F F8F |
VBF-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-16A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-152(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-54(1st): 15 Feb 1950-15 Jun 1956 VA-54(2nd): 15 Jun 1956-1 Apr 1958 |
VA-54 (2nd) | 1 April 1958 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-15 |
VF-17A | Phantom Fighters | F8F FH |
VF-82(1st): 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1956 VF-17A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VF-171(1st): 11 Aug 1948-15 Mar 1958 |
VF-171 (1st) | 15 March 1958 | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-17 | |
VF-18A | Checkmates | F4U F8F |
VBF-82: 20 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-18A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VF-172: 11 Aug 1948-1 Nov 1955 VA-172: 1 Nov 1955-15 Jan 1971 |
VA-172 | 15 January 1971 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-17 | |
VF-19A | Satan's Kittens | F6F F8F |
VF-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-19A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948 VF-191(1st): 24 Aug 1948-1 Mar 1978 |
VF-191 (1st) | 1 March 1978 | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-19 | |
VF-20A | F6F F4U |
VBF-19: 20 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-20A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948 VF-192(1st): 24 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-114: 15 Feb 1950-30 Apr 1993 |
VF-114 | 30 April 1993 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-19 | ||
VF-21A | F4U | VF-98: 28 Aug 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-21A: 15 Nov 1946-5 Aug 1947 |
VF-21A | 5 August 1947 | 1st VF squadron of CVAG-21 | ||
VF-22A | F4U | VBF-98: 1 Feb 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-22A: 15 Nov 1946-5 Aug 1947 |
VF-22A | 5 August 1947 | 2nd VF squadron of CVAG-21 | ||
A new Squadron and Air Group designation scheme was established in 1948. Squadron suffix letters were dropped and CVAGs and CVBGs were all redesignated CVGs. New squadron designation numbers denoted to which CVG the squadron was assigned with the first one or two digits denoting the CVG followed by a 1, 2 or 3 to differentiate between the VF squadrons (CVG-1: VF-11, VF-12, VF-13; CVG-2: VF-21, VF-22, VF-23; CVG-11: VF-111, VF-112, VF-113; CVG-15: VF-151, VF-152, VF-153 etc...). A fourth VF squadron (VF-__4) was added to most CVGs beginning in 1949. When a squadron was moved from one CVG to another it was redesignated to conform with the designation of the newly assigned CVG. That practice had begun to be abandoned by the mid 1950s when squadrons which were transferred from one CVG to another were redesignated in some cases but not in others. By 1965 the practice of redesignataing squadrons in accordance with Carrier Air Wing (CVGs were retitled Carrier Air Wings (CVW) on 20 December 1963) assignment had ceased completely and squadron designations were "frozen" and divorced from Carrier Air Wing designations. Squadrons and CVGs are grouped by designation below for ease of reading the table but it should not be assumed that the listed squadrons were assigned only to the CVG in which section they appear in the table. | |||||||
VF-1 (1945-8) (fourth use) |
Firebirds | F6F | VF-41(2nd): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-1E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-1(4th): 1 Sep 1948-20 Nov 1948 |
VF-1 (4th) | 20 November 1948 | When CVEG-1 was disestablished on 1 Sep 1948 its VF squadron was redesignated VF-1(4th) until it was disestablished less than three months later | |
CVG-1 (2nd): CVAG-1 redesignated CVG-1 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-1 | |||||||
VF-11 (1948-59) (second use) |
Red Rippers | F8F F2H |
VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927 VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928 VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928 VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930 VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932 VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933 VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937 VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943 VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1959 |
VF-11 (2nd) | 15 February 1959 | Original "Red Rippers" squadron. Redesignated as one of CVG-1(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-11 (1959-2005) (third use) |
(Adopted from disestablished VF-11(2nd)) |
Red Rippers (adopted from disestablished VF-11(2nd)) |
F8U/F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VF-43(4th): 1 Sep 1950-16 Feb 1959 VF-11(3rd): 16 Feb 1959-5 Nov 2005 VFA-11: 5 Nov 2005-present |
VFA-11 | Not applicable, still exists | Was redesignated VF-11(3rd) the day after VF-11(2nd) was disestablished to replace VF-11(2nd) in CVG-1(2nd). Adopted the "Red Rippers" nickname and insignia becoming the second and current "Red Rippers" squadron |
VF-12 (1948-55) (second use) |
Ubangis | F8F F2H |
VBF-4: 12 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-2A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-12(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-1 Aug 1955 VA-12: 1 Aug 1955-1 Oct 1986 |
VA-12 | 1 October 1986 | Redesignated as one of CVG-1(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-13 (1948-69) (second use) |
Night Cappers | F4U F8F F9F F4D F3H/F-3 F-8 |
VF-13(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-1 Oct 1969 | VF-13 (2nd) | 1 October 1969 | Established as one of CVG-1(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-14 (1949-2001) (second use) |
Top Hatters | F4U F3D F3H/F-3 F-4 F-14 |
Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920 VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921 VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921 VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927 VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941 VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943 VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949 VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001 VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001-present |
VFA-14 | Not applicable, still exists | Oldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy. Redesignated from being a CVG-1 (2nd) VA squadron to being its 4th VF squadron | |
CVG-2 (2nd): CVBG-1 redesignated CVG-2 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-2 | |||||||
VF-21 (1948-59) (second use) |
Mach Busters | F8F F9F FJ F11F |
VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973 VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973-1 Jul 1994 |
VF-43 (5th) | 1 July 1994 | Redesignated as one of CVG-2(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-21 (1959-96) (third use) |
Freelancers | F3H/F-3 F-4 F-14 |
VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-64: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1959 VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959-31 Jan 1996 |
VF-21 (3rd) | 31 January 1996 | Replaced VF-21(2nd) in CVG-2(2nd) when VF-21(2nd) was redesignated a VA squadron | |
VF-22 (1948-58) (second use) |
F2H-2 | VBF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945 VBF-74: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-2B(4th): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-22(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-6 Jun 1958 |
VF-22 (2nd) | 6 June 1958 | Redesignated as one of CVG-2(2nd)'s initial squadrons | ||
VF-23 (1948-59) (second use) |
(1949) (1955) |
Flashers (1949), Vigilantes (1959) |
F6F F4U F9F F2H F4D F3H |
VF-23(2nd): 6 Aug 1948-23 Feb 1959 VF-151(4th): 23 Feb 1959-1 Jun 1986 VFA-151: 1 Jun 1986-present |
VFA-151 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as one of CVG-2(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VF-24 (1949-59) (second use) |
Red Checkertails | F4U F9F FJ-1 FJ-3 F3H F11F F8U |
VB-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-1B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-24: 1 Sep 1948-1 Dec 1949 VF-24(2nd): 1 Dec 1949-9 Mar 1959 VF-211(3rd): 9 Mar 1959-Aug 2006 VFA-211: Aug 2006-present |
VFA-211 | Not applicable, still exists | Redesignated from being a CVG-2 (2nd) VA squadron to being its 4th VF squadron. On 9 March 1959, VF-24(2nd) traded insignia, nicknames and designations with VF-211(2nd) becoming VF-211(3rd) while VF-211(2nd) became VF-24(3rd). | |
VF-24 1959-96) (third use) |
Red Checkertails, Fighting Renegades (1979) |
F8U/F-8 F-14 |
VF-211(2nd): Jun 1955-9 Mar 1959 VF-24(3rd): 9 Mar 1959-31 Aug 1996 |
VF-24 (3rd) | 31 August 1996 | On 9 March 1959, VF-211(2nd) traded insignia, nicknames and designations with VF-24(2nd) becoming VF-24(3rd) in CVG-2(2nd) while VF-24(2nd) became VF-211(3rd). | |
VF-26 (second use) |
Sundowners | F-8 | VA-156: 4 Jun 1956-20 Jan 1959 VF-111(2nd): 20 Jan 1959-1 Sep 1964 VF-26(2nd): 1 Sep 1964-17 Sep 1964 VF-111(3rd): 17 Sep 1964-31 Mar 1995 |
VF-111 (3rd) | 31 March 1995 | For 16 days in September 1964 VF-111(2nd) was redesignated VF-26(2nd) before being redesignated back to VF-111(3rd). It was transferred to CVG-2(2nd) from CVG-11(2nd) and remained in CVG-2(2nd) after its redesignation back to VF-111(3rd) | |
CVG-3 (2nd): CVAG-3 redesignated CVG-3 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-3 | |||||||
VF-31 (1948-2006) (second use) |
Tomcatters | F9F F2H F3H/F-3 F-4 F-14 |
VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937 VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006 VFA-31: 2006-present |
VFA-31 | Not applicable, still exists | Redesignated as one of CVG-3(2nd)'s initial squadrons. On 15 Jul 1943 VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(2nd) swapped designations with VF-3(2nd) becoming VF-6(3rd) and VF-6(2nd) becoming VF-3(3rd). The new VF-3(3rd) laid claim to VF-3(2nd)'s Felix the Cat insignia and both squadrons used it until the original owner (then VF-6(3rd)) was disestablished leaving it with VF-3(3rd) which was later redesignated VF-3A, VF-31(2nd) and is today VFA-31. The "Tomcatters" nickname was instituted with redesignation to VF-31 | |
VF-32 (1948-2005) (second use) |
(White Lighting) (Swordsmen) |
White Lightning, Swordsman (1956) |
F4U F9F-6 F8U/F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VBF-3: 1 Feb 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-4A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-32(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-Nov 2005 VFA-32: Nov 2005-present |
VFA-32 | Not applicable, still exists | Redesignated as one of CVG-3(2nd)'s initial squadrons. Because VBF-3 was established by being split out VF-3(3rd) the squadron originally called themselves the "Crazy Cats" and used the Felix the Cat insignia which made them the third squadron along with VF-3(3rd) and VF-6(3rd) to use the Felix the Cat insignia at the same time. As VF-4A the squadron abandoned the Felix the Cat insignia, called themselves "White Lightining" and created a new insignia. |
VF-33 (1948-93) (second use) |
(Tarsiers) (Starfighters) |
Tarsiers (1948), Astronauts (1958), Tarsiers (1961), Starfighters (1981) |
F4U F9F-6 FJ-3 F11F F8U/F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VF-33(2nd): 12 Oct 1948-1 Oct 1993 | VF-33 (2nd) | 1 October 1993 | Established as one of CVG-3(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VF-34 (1943-69) (third use) |
Jokers | F8F F9F F2H |
VF-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VF-91(1st): 12 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-34(3rd): 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1955 VA-34(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jun 1969 |
VA-34 (2nd) | 1 June 1969 | Redesignated VF-34(3rd) and added to CVG-3(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-9(2nd) was disestablished | |
CVG-4 (2nd): CVBG-1 redesignated CVG-4 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 8 Jun 1950 | |||||||
VF-41 (1948-50) (third use) |
Gay Blades | F4U | VF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-3B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-41(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-Jun 1950 |
VF-41 (3rd) | June 1950 | Redesignated as one of CVG-4(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-42 (1945-50) (third use) |
Green Pawns | F4U | VBF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945 VBF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-4B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-42(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-8 Jun 1950 |
VF-42 (3rd) | 8 June 1950 | Redesignated as one of CVG-4(2nd)'s initial squadrons. The "Green Pawns" insignia was first approved for use by VBF-75 and was carried through the redesignations to VF-4B and VF-42(3rd) | |
VF-43 (1948-50) (third use) |
Blue Pawns[114] | F4U[115] | VF-43(3rd): 1 Oct 1948-1950 | VF-43 (3rd) | 1950 | Established as one of CVG-4(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
CVG-4 (3rd): Established 1 Sep 1950, redesignated RCVG-4 1 Apr 1958 to control FRSs, disestablished 1 Jun 1970 as RCVW-4 | |||||||
VF-41 (1950-2001) (fourth use) |
Black Aces | F2H F3H F4H/F-4 F-14 |
VF-41(4th): on 1 Sep 1950-Dec 2001 VFA-41: Dec 2001-present |
VFA-141 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as one of CVG-4(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-42 (1950-3) (fourth use) |
(adopted from disestablished VF-42(3rd)) | Green Pawns | F4U AD |
VF-42(4th): 1 Sep 1950-1 Nov 1953 VA-42: 1 Nov 1953-30 Sep 1994 |
VA-42 | 30 September 1994 | Established as one of CVG-4(3rd)'s initial squadrons. Adopted the nickname and insignia of the disestablished VF-42(3rd) |
VF-43 (1950-9) (fourth use) |
Rebel's Raiders | F4U F9F Cougar F2H |
VF-43(4th): 1 Sep 1950-16 Feb 1959 VF-11(3rd): 16 Feb 1959-5 Nov 2005 VFA-11: 5 Nov 2005-present |
VFA-11 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as one of CVG-4(3rd)'s initial squadrons. Was redesignated VF-11(3rd) the day after VF-11(2nd) was disestablished. Adopted the "Red Ripper" nickname and insignia on 16 Feb 1959 as VF-11(3rd) | |
VF-44 (1950-6) (second use) |
F4U F2H |
VF-44(2nd): 1 Sep 1950-1 Jan 1956 VA-44(2nd): 1 Jan 1956-1 May 1970 |
VA-44 (2nd) | 1 May 1970 | Established as one of CVG-4(3rd)'s initial squadrons | ||
CVG-5 (2nd): CVAG-5 redesignated CVG-5 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-5 | |||||||
VF-51 (1948-95) (second use) |
Screaming Eagles | FJ F9F Panther F9F Cougar F8U/F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VF-1(2nd): 15 Feb 1943-15 Jul 1943 VF-5(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VF-51(2nd): 16 Aug 1948-31 Mar 1995 |
VF-51 (2nd) | 31 March 1995 | Redesignated as one of CVG-5(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-52 (1948-69) (third use) |
Knightriders | TO-1 F9F-2 F2H-3 |
VBF-5: 8 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-6A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VF-52(3rd): 16 Aug 1948-23 Feb 1959 |
VF-52 (3rd) | 23 February 1959 | Redesignated as one of CVG-5(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-53 (1948-58) (second use) |
Gunfighters | F4U F9F |
VF-53(2nd): 16 Aug 1948-11 Apr 1958 VF-124(2nd): 11 Apr 1958-30 Sep 1994 |
VF-124 (2nd) | 30 September 1994 | Established as one of CVG-5(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-53 (1958-62) (third use) |
Pukin' Dogs | F3H | VF-871: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-123: 4 Feb 1953-12 Apr 1958 VF-53(3rd): 12 Apr 1958-20 Jun 1962 VF-143(2nd): 20 Jun 1962-2005 VFA-143: 2005-present |
VFA-143 | Not applicable, still exists | USNR VF-871 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War. Reassigned to CVG-5(2nd) in 1958 when it and VF-53(2nd) swapped air groups | |
VF-53 (1963-71) (fourth use) |
Iron Angels | F-8 | VF-721: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-141: 4 Feb 1953-15 Oct 1963 VF-53(4th): 15 Oct 1963-29 Jan 1971 |
VF-53 (4th) | 29 January 1971 | USNR VF-721 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War. Assigned in 1963 to CVG-5(2nd) as its second VF squadron to replace VF-54(2nd) when it was moved back to CVG-9 | |
VF-54 (first use) |
(1951) |
Copperheads, Hell's Angels (1951) |
F4U AD |
VBF-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-16A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-152(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-54(1st): 15 Feb 1950-15 Jun 1956 VA-54(2nd): 15 Jun 1956-1 Apr 1958 |
VA-54 (2nd) | 1 April 1958 | Redesignated VF-54(1st) and added to CVG-5(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-15(2nd) was disestablished |
VF-54 (1962-3) (second use) |
Silver Kings | F3H/F-3 F-4 |
VF-92(3rd): 23 Mar 1952-1 Jun 1962 VF-54(2nd): 1 Jun 1962-15 Oct 1963 VF-92(4th): 1 Oct 1963-12 Dec 1975 |
VF-92 (4th) | 12 December 1975 | Assigned in 1962 to CVG-5(2nd) as its second VF squadron to replace VF-53(3rd) when it was moved to CVG-14(2nd) | |
CVG-6 (2nd): CVBG-5 redesignated CVG-6 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Apr 1992 as CVW-6 | |||||||
VF-61 | Jolly Rogers | F8F F9F Panther F9F Cougar FJ-3 F3H |
VF-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-5B(4th): 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-61: 28 Jul 1948-15 Apr 1959 |
VF-61 | 15 April 1959 | Redesignated as one of CVG-6(2nd)'s initial squadrons. Original "Jolly Rogers" squadron. Name created by VF-17 and carried through VF-5B(4th) and VF-61 redesignations | |
VF-62 (first use) |
(1952) |
Gladiators (1952) |
F8F F2H |
VBF-17: 2 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-6B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-62(1st): 28 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1955 VA-106(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-7 Nov 1969 |
VA-106 (2nd) | 7 November 1969 | Redesignated as one of CVG-6(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VF-62 (1955-69) (second use) |
Boomerangs | FJ-3M F8U/F-8 |
VA-106(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-62(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Oct 1969 |
VF-62 (2nd) | 1 October 1969 | Established as VA-106(1st) on 1 Jul 1955 and redesignated VF-62(2nd) on the same day to replace VF-62(1st) in CVG-6(2nd) when VF-62(1st) was redesignated a VA squadron | |
VF-63 | Fighting Redcocks | F8F F4U F9F Panther F9F Cougar |
VF-63: 28 Jul 1948-Mar 1956 VA-63: Mar 1956-1 Jul 1959 VA-22: 1 Jul 1959-4 May 1990 VFA-22: 4 May 1990-present |
VFA-22 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as one of CVG-6(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-64 | Freelancers | F4U F9F F3H |
VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-64: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1959 VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959-31 Jan 1996 |
VF-21 (3rd) | 31 January 1996 | Redesignated VF-64 and added to CVG-6(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-13(2nd) was disestablished | |
CVG-7 (2nd): CVAG-7 redesignated CVG-7 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, still exists as CVW-7 | |||||||
VF-71 (1942-1959) (second use) |
F9F-2 F2H-4 |
VGS-18: 15 Oct 1942-1 Mar 1943 VC-18: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943 VF-36(1st): 15 Aug 1943-5 Mar 1944 VF-18(2nd): 5 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-7A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-71(2nd): 28 Jul 1948-31 Mar 1959 |
VF-71 (2nd) | 31 March 1959 | Redesignate as one of CVG-7(2nd)'s initial squadrons | ||
VF-72 (1948-56) (second use) |
(1950) |
Bearcats, Hawks (1950) |
F8F F9F Panther |
VBF-18: 25 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-8A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948 VF-72(2nd): 28 Jul 1948-3 Jan 1956 VA-72: 3 Jan 1956-30 Jun 1991 |
VA-72 | 30 June 1991 | Redesignated as one of CVG-7(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VF-73 | Jesters | F6F F8F F4U F9F-5 F9F-6 F2H FJ-3 |
VF-73: 27 Jul 1948-1 Mar 1958 | VF-73 | 1 March 1958 | Established as one of CVG-7(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-74 (1950-94) (third use) |
Be-Devilers | F8F F4U F9F-8 F4D F4H/F-4 F-14 |
VBF-20: 16 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-10A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VF-92(2nd): 12 Aug 1948-15 Jan 1950 VF-74(3rd): 15 Jan 1950-30 Apr 1994 |
VF-74 (3rd) | 30 April 1994 | Redesignated VF-74(3rd) and added to CVG-7(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-9(2nd) was disestablished | |
CVG-8 (2nd): Planned for establishment in 1948 but cancelled | |||||||
VF-81 (1948-50) (second use) |
F8F | VF-42(2nd) 19 Jul 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-2E: 15 Nov 1946-15 Sep 1948 VF-81(2nd): 15 Sep 1948-17 Jan 1950 |
VF-81 (2nd) | 17 January 1950 | Redesignated for assignment to CVG-8(2nd) but CVG-8 establishment was cancelled and squadron was disestablished | ||
VF-82 (1948-9) (second use) |
F8F | VF-3E: 21 Apr 1947-15 Sep 1948 VF-82(2nd): 15 Sep 1948-29 Nov 1949 |
VF-82 (2nd) | 29 November 1949 | Redesignated for assignment to CVG-8(2nd) but CVG-8 establishment was cancelled and squadron was disestablished | ||
VF-83 (1948-50) (second use) |
VF-83(2nd): 15 Sep 1948-1949 or 50 | VF-83 (2nd) | 1949 or 50 | Established for assignment to CVG-8(2nd) but CVG-8 establishment was cancelled and squadron was disestablished | |||
CVG-8 (2nd): Established 9 Apr 1951 to received USNR squadrons activated for the Korean war, still exists as CVW-8 | |||||||
VF-81 (1953-5) (third use) |
Waldomen | F9F-5 F7U |
VF-671: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-81(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-66(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Oct 1986 |
VA-66 (2nd) | 1 October 1986 | USNR VF-671 activated 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd) when it was established on 9 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-81 in 1953 | |
VF-81 (1955-9) (fourth use) |
Crusaders | F9F-8 | VA-66(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-81(4th): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1959 VA-81: 1 Jul 1959-4 Feb 1988 VFA-81: 4 Feb 1988-present |
VFA-81 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as VA-66(1st) on 1 Jul 1955 and redesignated VF-81(4th) on the same day. Replaced VF-81(3rd) in CVG-8(2nd) | |
VF-82 (1953-9) (third use) |
Iron Men | F2H F3H |
VF-742: 2 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-82(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-15 April 1959 |
VF-82 (3rd) | 15 April 1959 | USNR VF-742 activated on 2 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd) when it was established on 9 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-82 in 1953 | |
VF-83 (1953-6) (third use) |
Roaring Bulls | F9F-5 F7U |
VF-916: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-83(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-83: 1 Jul 1955-3 Mar 1958 VFA-83: 3 Mar 1958-present |
VFA-83 | Not applicable, still exists | USNR VF-916 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd) when it was established on 9 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-83 in 1953 | |
VF-84 (1953-5) (second use) |
(Apr 1954) |
Sidewinders (Apr 1954) | F4U F8F F9F-5 |
VF-921: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-84(2nd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-86(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-15 Jul 1987 VFA-86: 15 Jul 1987-present |
VFA-86 | Not applicable, still exists | USNR VF-921 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd) when it was established on 9 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-84 in 1953 |
VF-84 (1955-95) (third use) |
(1960) |
Vagabonds, Jolly Rogers (1960) |
FJ-3 F8U/F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VA-86(1st): 1 July 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-84(3rd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Oct 1995 |
VF-84 (3rd) | 1 October 1995 | Established as VA-86(1st) on 1 Jul 1955 and redesignated VF-84(3rd) on the same day. Replaced VF-84(2nd) in CVG-8(2nd) when VF-84(2nd) was redesignated a VA squadron in CVG-8(2nd). Second "Jolly Rogers" squadron, adopted name and insignia on 1 Apr 1960 following disestablishment of VF-61. |
CVG-9 (2nd): CVAG-9 redesignated CVG-9 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Dec 1949 | |||||||
VF-91 (1948-50) (first use) |
(1949) |
Jokers | F8F | VF-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VF-91(1st): 12 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-34(3rd): 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1955 VA-34(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jun 1969 |
VA-34 (2nd) | 1 June 1969 | Redesignated as one of CVG-9(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VF-92 (second use) |
Be-Devilers | F8F | VBF-20: 16 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-10A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VF-92(2nd): 12 Aug 1948-15 Jan 1950 VF-74(3rd): 15 Jan 1950-30 Apr 1994 |
VF-74 (3rd) | 30 Apr 1994 | Redesignated as one of CVG-9(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-93 (1948-9) (second use) |
F4U | VF-93(2nd): 12 Aug 1948-30 Nov 1949 | VF-93 (2nd) | 30 November 1949 | Established as one of CVG-9(2nd)'s initial squadrons | ||
CVG-9 (3rd): Established 26 Mar 1952, still exists as CVW-9 | |||||||
VF-91 (second use) |
Red Lightnings | F9F-2 F9F-6 FJ-3 F8U/F-8 |
VF-91(2nd): 26 Mar 1952-1 Aug 1963 VF-194(3rd): 1 Aug 1963-1 Mar 1978 |
VF-194 (3rd) | 1 March 1978 | Established as one of CVG-9(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-92 (1952-75) (third use) |
Silver Kings | F4U F9F-2 F2H F3H |
VF-92(3rd): 23 Mar 1952-1 Jun 1962 VF-54(2nd): 1 Jun 1962-15 Oct 1963 VF-92(4th): 1 Oct 1963-12 Dec 1975 |
VF-92 (4th) | 12 December 1975 | Established as one of CVG-9(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-92 (1952-75) (fourth use) |
Silver Kings | F-4 | VF-92(3rd): 23 Mar 1952-1 Jun 1962 VF-54(2nd): 1 Jun 1962-15 Oct 1963 VF-92(4th): 1 Oct 1963-12 Dec 1975 |
VF-92 (4th) | 12 December 1975 | Returned to CVG-9(3rd) from CVG-5(2nd) in Oct 1963 becoming VF-92(4th) to replace VF-91(2nd) | |
VF-93 (third use) |
Blue Blazers (1954) | FG-1 F9F-2/5 F9F-8 |
VF-93(3rd): 26 Mar 1952-15 Sep 1956 VA-93: 15 Sep 1956-30 Aug 1986 |
VA-93 | 30 August 1986 | Established as one of CVG-9(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-94 (1952-8) (second use) |
(1952) (1955) |
Tough Kitties (adopted from disestablished VF-94(1st)) | F4U F9F Panther FJ-3 F9F Cougar |
VF-94(2nd): 26 Mar 1952-1 Aug 1958 VA-94(2nd): 1 Aug 1958-28 Jun 1990 VFA-94: 28 Jun 1990-present |
VFA-94 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as one of CVG-9(3rd)'s initial squadrons |
VF-96 | Fighting Falcons | F8U/F-8 F-4 |
VF-791: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-142(1st): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jun 1962 VF-96: 1 Jun 1962-1 Dec 1975 |
VF-96 | 1 December 1975 | USNR VF-971 activated on 20 Jul 1959 for the Korean War. Redesignated VF-96 to replace VF-92(3rd) in CVG-9(3rd) when VF-92(3rd) was moved to CVG-5(2nd) | |
CVG-10 (2nd): Established 1 May 1952, disestablished 20 Nov 1969 as CVW-10(1st) | |||||||
VF-101 | Grim Reapers | FG-1 F2H F4D F3H/F-3 F4H/F-4 F-14 |
VF-101: 1 May 1952-1 May 2012 (inactive 30 Sep 2005-1 May 2012) VFA-101: 1 May 2012-present |
VFA-101 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as one of CVG-10(2nd)'s initial squadrons, however it never deployed with CVG-10 and was moved to CVG-1 (without being redesignated) in 1954. Adopted "Grim Reapers" name and insignia from disestablished VF-10. Transferred to RCVG-4 in 1958 (without being redesignated) and operated as a FRS from Apr 1958 to 30 Sep 2005. The squadron was deactivated on 30 Sep 2005 and reactivated on 1 May 2012 as a VFA FRS. | |
VF-102 (1952-55) (first use) |
FG-1 F9F-5 |
VF-102(1st): 1 May 1952-1 Jul 1955 VA-36(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Aug 1970 |
VA-36 (2nd) | 1 August 1970 | Established as one of CVG-10(2nd)'s initial squadrons | ||
VF-102 (second use) |
Diamondbacks | F2H F4D F4H/F-4 F-14 |
VA-36(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-102(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-Jan 2002 VFA-102: Jan 2002-present |
VFA-102 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as VA-36(1st) on 1 Jul 1955 and redesignated VF-102(2nd) on the same day to replace VF-102(1st) in CVG-10(2nd) when VF-102(1st) was redesignated a VA squadron | |
VF-103 | (Sluggers) (Jolly Rogers) |
Sluggers (1952) Flying Cougars (1953) Sluggers (1957) Jolly Rogers (1995) |
FG-1 F9F Cougar F8U/F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VF-103: 1 May 1952-Feb 2005 VFA-103: Feb 2005-present |
VFA-103 |
Not applicable, still exists | Established as one of CVG-10(2nd)'s initial squadrons. Third "Jolly Rogers" squadron. Adopted "Jolly Rogers" name and insignia following VF-84(3rd)'s disestablishment. |
VF-104 | Hell's Archers | F4U | VF-104: 1 May 1952-4 Dec 1953 VA-104: 4 Dec 1953-31 Mar 1959 |
VA-104 | 31 March 1959 | Established as one of CVG-10(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
CVG-11 (2nd): CVAG-11 redesignated CVG-11 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, still exists as CVW-11 | |||||||
VF-111 (first use) |
Sundowners | F9F-2 F9F-8 FJ-3 |
VF-11(1st): 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946 VF-11A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-111(1st)15 Jul 1948-19 Jan 1959 |
VF-111 (1st) | 19 January 1959 | Redesignated as one of CVG-11(2nd)'s initial squadrons. First "Sundowners" squadron, name and insignia created by VF-11(1st) and carried through VF-11A and VF-111(1st) redesignations | |
VF-111 (1956-95) (second use) |
Sundowners | F11F F8U/F-8 |
VA-156: 4 Jun 1956-20 Jan 1959 VF-111(2nd): 20 Jan 1959-1 Sep 1964 VF-26(2nd): 1 Sep 1964-17 Sep 1964 VF-111(3rd): 17 Sep 1964-31 Mar 1995 |
VF-111 (3rd) | 31 March 1995 | Redesignated VF-111(2nd) to replace VF-111(1st) in CVG-11(2nd) when VF-111(1st) was disestablished. Second "Sundowners" squadron, name and insignia adopted upon redesignation to VF-111(2nd), carried through brief redesignation to VF-26(2nd) and back to VF-111(3rd) | |
VF-111 (1956-95) (third use) |
Sundowners | F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VA-156: 4 Jun 1956-20 Jan 1959 VF-111(2nd): 20 Jan 1959-1 Sep 1964 VF-26(2nd): 1 Sep 1964-17 Sep 1964 VF-111(3rd): 17 Sep 1964-31 Mar 1995 |
VF-111 (3rd) | 31 March 1995 | Second "Sundowners" squadron. VF-111(2nd) was redesignated VF-26(2nd) for 16 days in Sep 1964 before it was redesignated back to VF-111(3rd). It was moved to CVG-2(2nd) and remained there for a deployment even after being redesignated back to VF-111(3rd). VFC-111 was established in November 2006 at NAS Key West with F-5 Tiger II aircraft and adopted the name and insignia becoming the third "Sundowners" squadron | |
VF-112 | F8F F9F Panther F9F Cougar F3H |
VBF-11: 9 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-12A: 15 Nov 1946-15 July 1948 VF-112: 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1959 VA-112: 15 Feb 1959-10 Oct 1969 |
VA-112 | 10 October 1969 | Redesignated as one of CVG-11(2nd)'s initial squadrons | ||
VF-113 | Stingers | F8F F4U F9F Panther F9F Cougar |
VF-113: 15 Jul 1948-Mar 1956 VA-113: Mar 1956-25 Mar 1983 VFA-113: 25 Mar 1983-present |
VFA-113 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as one of CVG-11(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-114 | (1961) |
Executioners, Aardvarks (1961) |
F4U F9F Panther F2H F3H F4H/F-4 F-14 |
VBF-19: 20 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-20A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948 VF-192(1st): 24 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-114: 15 Feb 1950-30 Apr 1993 |
VF-114 | 30 April 1993 | Redesignated VF-114 and added to CVG-11(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn |
CVG-12 (2nd): Established as CVG-102 1 Aug 1950 to received USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, redesignated CVG-12 (2nd) 4 Feb 1952, redesignated RCVG-12 1 Apr 1958 to control FRSs, disestablished 30 Jun 1970 as RCVW-12 | |||||||
VF-121 | Pacemakers | F9F Panther F9F Cougar F3H FJ-3 F11F F4H/F-4 |
VF-781: 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-121: 4 Feb 1953-30 Sep 1980 |
VF-121 | 30 September 1980 | USNR VF-781 activated in 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-102 was later redesignated CVG-12(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-781 redesignated VF-121 and permanently activated in 1953. On 1 Apr 1958 CVG-12(2nd) was redesignated RCVG-12 to control Pacific Fleet Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS) and VF-121 became a FRS from Apr 1958 to its disestablishment | |
VF-122 | Black Angels | F9F-5 F9F-8 F3H |
VF-783: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-122: 4 Feb 1953-10 Apr 1958 |
VF-122 | 10 April 1958 | USNR VF-783 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-102 was later redesignated CVG-12(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-783 redesignated VF-122 and permanently activated in 1953 | |
VF-123 | (1953) |
Blue Racers, Pukin' Dogs (1953) |
F9F-2 | VF-871: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-123: 4 Feb 1953-12 Apr 1958 VF-53(3rd): 12 Apr 1958-20 Jun 1962 VF-143(2nd): 20 Jun 1962-2005 VFA-143: 2005-present |
VFA-143 | Not applicable, still exists | USNR VF-871 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-102 was later redesignated CVG-12(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-871 redesignated VF-123 and permanently activated in 1953 |
VF-124 (1950-8) (first use) |
Stingarees | F7U | VF-874: 20 Jul 1959-4 Feb 1953 VF-124(1st): 4 Feb 1953-10 Apr 1958 |
VF-124 (1st) | 10 April 1958 | USNR VF-874 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-102 was later redesignated CVG-12(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-874 redesignated VF-124 and permanently activated in 1953 | |
VF-124 (second use) |
Gunfighters | F7U F9F-8T/TF-9 TV-2/T-33 F8U/F-8 F-14 |
VF-53(2nd): 16 Aug 1948-11 Apr 1958 VF-124(2nd): 11 Apr 1958-30 Sep 1994 |
VF-124 (2nd) | 30 September 1994 | CVG-12(2nd) was redesignated RCVG-12 on 1 Apr 1958 to operate Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS). VF-53(2nd) was redesignated VF-124(2nd) and operated as a Pacific Fleet FRS | |
VF-126 | (1965) (1981) |
Fighting Seahawks (1965) Bandits (1981) |
F-1 T-2 A-4 F-5 F-16N F-14 |
VA-126: 6 Apr 1956-15 Oct 1965 VF-126: 15 Oct 1965-1 Apr 1994 |
VF-126 | 1 April 1994 | CVG-12(2nd) was redesignated RCVG-12 (RCVW-12 after 20 Dec 1963) on 1 Apr 1958 to operate Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS) and other training support squadrons. VA-126 (a VA FRS in RCVW-12) was redesignated VF-126 and operated as an "aggressor" squadron providing air to air combat training |
CVG-13 (2nd): CVAG-13 redesignated CVG-13 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 30 Nov 1949 | |||||||
VF-131 (first use) |
Freelancers | F4U | VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-64: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1959 VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959-31 Jan 1996 |
VF-21 (3rd) | 1 July 1959 | Redesignated as one of CVG-13(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-132 (1945-9) (first use) |
F8F | VBF-81: 13 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-14A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VF-132(1st): 2 Aug 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VF-132 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | Redesignated as one of CVG-13(2nd)'s initial squadrons | ||
VF-133 | F8F | VF-133: 2 Aug 1948-1949 or 1950 | VF-133 | 1949 or 1950 | Established as one of CVG-13(2nd)'s initial squadrons | ||
CVG-13 (3rd): Established 21 Aug 1961, disestablished 1 Oct 1962 | |||||||
VF-131 (1961-2) (second use) |
Nightcappers | F3H | VF-131(2nd): 21 Aug 1961-1 Oct 1962 | VF-131 (2nd) | 1 October 1962 | Established as one of CVG-13(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-132 (1961-2) (second use) |
Swordsmen | F8U/F-8 | VF-132(2nd): 31 Aug 1961-1 Oct 1962 | VF-132 (2nd) | 1 October 1962 | Established as one of CVG-13(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
CVG-14 (2nd): Established as CVG-101 1 Aug 1950 to receive USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, redesignated CVG-14 (2nd) 4 Feb 1952, deactivated 31 Mar 2017 as CVW-14 | |||||||
VF-141 | Iron Angels | F9F-2 F2H F4D F3H F8U/F-8 |
VF-721: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-141: 4 Feb 1953-15 Oct 1963 VF-53(4th): 15 Oct 1963-29 Jan 1971 |
VF-53 (4th) | 29 January 1971 | USNR VF-721 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-101 was later redesignated CVG-14(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-721 redesignated VF-141 and permanently activated in 1953 | |
VF-142 (first use) |
Fighting Falcons | F4U F9F-6 F8U |
VF-791: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-142(1st): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jun 1962 VF-96: 1 Jun 1962-1 Dec 1975 |
VF-96 | 1 December 1975 | USNR VF-791 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-101 was later redesignated CVG-14(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-791 redesignated VF-142 and permanently activated in 1953 | |
VF-142 (1948-95) (second use) |
Ghostriders | F-4 F-14 |
VF-193: 24 Aug 1948-15 Oct 1963 VF-142(2nd): 15 Oct 1963-30 Apr 1995 |
VF-142 (2nd) | 30 April 1995 | Replaced VF-141 in when it was redesignated and moved to CVG-5(2nd) | |
VF-143 (first use) |
Kingpins | F9F-6 FJ-3 |
VF-821: 20 Jul 1959-5 Feb 1953 VF-143(1st): 4 Feb 1953-1 Apr 1958 |
VF-143 (1st) | 1 April 1958 | USNR VF-821 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-101 was later redesignated CVG-14(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-821 redesignated VF-143 and permanently activated in 1953 | |
VF-143 (second use) |
Pukin Dogs | F4H/F-4 F-14 |
VF-871: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-123: 4 Feb 1953-12 Apr 1958 VF-53(3rd): 12 Apr 1958-20 Jun 1962 VF-143(2nd): 20 Jun 1962-2005 VFA-143: 2005-present |
VFA-143 | Not applicable, still exists | Replaced VF-142(1st) when it was redesignated and moved to CVG-9(3rd) | |
VF-144 | F4U F9F Panther F9F Cougar AD |
VF-884: 20 Jul 1959-4 Feb 1953 VF-144: 4 Feb 1953-23 Feb 1959 VA-52: 23 Feb 1959-31 Mar 1995 |
VA-52 | 31 March 1995 | USNR VF-884 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-101 was later redesignated CVG-14(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-884 redesignated VF-144 and permanently activated in 1953 | ||
CVG-15 (2nd): CVAG-15 redesignated CVG-15 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Dec 1949 | |||||||
VF-151 (second use) |
Black Knights | F8F | VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-15 Mar 1956 VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1986 VFA-192: 10 Jan 1986-present |
VFA-192 | Not applicable, still exists | Redesignated as one of CVG-15(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-152 (1953-8) (second use) |
Copperheads | F8F AD F4U |
VBF-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-16A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-152(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-54(1st): 15 Feb 1950-15 Jun 1956 VA-54(2nd): 15 Jun 1956-1 Apr 1958 |
VA-54 (2nd) | 1 April 1958 | Redesignated as one of CVG-15(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-153 (1948-50) (second use) |
Thundercats | F8F | VF-153(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-194(1st): 15 Feb 1950-4 May 1955 VA-196: 4 May 1955-21 Mar 1997 |
VA-196 | 21 March 1997 | Established as one of CVG-15(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
CVG-15 (3rd): Established 5 Apr 1951 to receive USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, disestablished 31 Mar 1995 as CVW-15 | |||||||
VF-151 (third use) |
Black Knights | F9F-5 F7U |
VF-653: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-151(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-7 Feb 1956 VA-151: 7 Feb 1956-23 Feb 1959 VA-23: 23 Feb 1959-1 Apr 1970 |
VA-23 | 1 April 1970 | USNR VF-653 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd) when it was established on 5 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-151 in 1953. Adopted the name and insignia of VF-151(2nd) which had been redesignated VF-192 three years earlier | |
VF-151 (fourth use) |
Vigilantes | F3H/F-3 F-4 |
VF-23(2nd): 6 Aug 1948-23 Feb 1959 VF-151(4th): 23 Feb 1959-1 Jun 1986 VFA-151: 1 Jun 1986-present |
VFA-151 | Not applicable, still exists | Moved to CVG-15(3rd) as the second VF squadron after VF-151(3d), VF-152(3rd) and VF-153(3rd) all became VA squadrons in the Air Group | |
VF-152 (third use) |
(late 1953) |
Vultures, Fighting Aces (late 1953), Friendlies (1957) |
FG-1 F3H |
VF-713: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-152(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Aug 1958 VA-152: 1 Aug 1958-29 Jan 1971 |
VA-152 | 29 January 1971 | USNR VF-713 Activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd) when it was established on 5 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-152 in 1953 |
VF-153 (1953-6) (third use) |
Blue Tail Flies | F9F-5 F9F Cougar FJ-3 |
VF-831: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-153(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-17 Dec 1956 VA-153: 17 Dec 1956-30 Sep 1977 |
VA-153 | 30 September 1977 | USNR VF-831 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd) when it was established on 5 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-153 in 1953 | |
VF-154 | (1957) |
Black Knights (1957) | F9F Panther FJ-3 F8U/F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VF-837: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-154: 4 Feb 1953-Oct 2003 VFA-154: Oct 2003-present |
VFA-154 | Not applicable, still exists | USNR VF-837 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd) when it was established on 5 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-154 in 1953 |
CVG-16 (2nd): Established 1 Sep 1960, disestablished 30 Jun 1970 as CVW-16 | |||||||
VF-161 | Chargers | F3H/F-3 F-4 |
VF-161: 1 Sep 1960-1 Jun 1986 VFA-161: 1 Jun 1986-1 Apr 1988 (same sqdn listed in VFA section) |
VFA-161 | 1 April 1988 | Established as one of CVG-16(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-162 | Hunters | F4D/F-6 F-8 |
VF-162: 1 Sep 1960-29 Jan 1971 | VF-162 | 29 January 1971 | Established as one of CVG-16(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
CVG-17 (2nd): CVAG-17 redesignated CVG-17 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 15 Sep 1958 | |||||||
VF-171 (first use) |
Screamin Deamons (1949), Aces (1953) |
FH-1 F2H |
VF-82(1st): 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1956 VF-17A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VF-171(1st): 11 Aug 1948-15 Mar 1958 |
VF-171 (1st) | 15 March 1958 | Redesignated as one of CVG-17(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-172 | (1950) |
Checkmates, Bluebolts (1950) |
F8F FH F2H |
VBF-82: 20 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-18A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VF-172: 11 Aug 1948-1 Nov 1955 VA-172: 1 Nov 1955-15 Jan 1971 |
VA-172 | 15 January 1971 | Redesignated as one of CVG-17(2nd)'s initial squadrons |
VF-173 | Jesters | F8F F4U F9F-6 FJ-3 |
VF-173: 11 Aug 1948-1 Feb 1959 | VF-173 | 1 February 1959 | Established as one of CVG-17(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-174 | Hellrazors | F4U F9F-6 FJ-3 F9F-8 F8U/F-8 |
VB-81: 1 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-134(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-174: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1966 VA-174(2nd): 1 Jul 1966-30 Jun 1988 |
VA-174 (2nd) | 30 June 1988 | Redesignated VF-174 and added to CVG-17(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-13(2nd) was disestablished. Transferred to RCVG-4 in 1958 (without being redesignated) and operated as a FRS from 1 May 1958 to 1 Jul 1966 | |
CVG-19 (2nd): CVAG-19 redesignated CVG-19 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 30 Jun 1977 as CVW-19 | |||||||
VF-191 (first use) |
Satan's Kittens | F8F F9F Panther F9F Cougar FJ-3 F11F F8U/F-8 F-4 |
VF-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-19A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948 VF-191(1st): 24 Aug 1948-1 Mar 1978 |
VF-191 (1st) | 1 March 1978 | Redesignated as one of CVG-19(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-192 (first use) |
Executioners | F4U | VBF-19: 20 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-20A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948 VF-192(1st): 24 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-114: 15 Feb 1950-30 Apr 1993 |
VF-114 | 30 April 1993 | Redesignated as one of CVG-19(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-192 (second use) |
Black Knights, Golden Dragons (1954) |
F8F F4U F9F Panther F9F Cougar |
VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-15 Mar 1956 VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1986 VFA-192: 10 Jan 1986-present |
VFA-192 | Not applicable, still exists | Redesignated VF-192(2nd) and replaced VF-192(1st) in CVG-19(2nd) when it was redesignated VF-114 and moved to CVG-11(2nd) | |
VF-193 | Ghostriders | F4U F2H F3H/F-3 F-4 |
VF-193: 24 Aug 1948-15 Oct 1963 VF-142(2nd): 15 Oct 1963-30 Apr 1995 |
VF-142 (2nd) | 30 April 1995 | Established as one of CVG-19(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-194 (first use) |
[116] | Yellow Devils | F8F F4U AD |
VF-153(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-194(1st): 15 Feb 1950-4 May 1955 VA-196: 4 May 1955-21 Mar 1997 |
VA-196 | 21 March 1997 | Redesignated VF-194(1st) and added to CVG-19(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-15(2nd) was disestablished |
VF-194 (1955-8) (second use) |
F2H | VF-194(2nd): 18 May 1955-10 Apr 1958 | VF-194 (2nd) | 10 April 1958 | Established to replace VF-194(1st) in CVG-19(2nd) when VF-194(1st) was redesignated a VA squadron | ||
VF-194 (third use) |
Red Lightnings | F-8 F-4 |
VF-91(2nd): 26 Mar 1952-1 Aug 1963 VF-194(3rd): 1 Aug 1963-1 Mar 1978 |
VF-194 (3rd) | 1 March 1978 | Moved to CVG-19(2nd) in 1963 to be the Air Group's second VF squadron when VF-193 was redesignated and moved to CVG-14(2nd) | |
CVG-21 (1st): Established 15 Sep 1948, disestablished 15 Mar 1949 | |||||||
VF-211 (1948-9) (first use) |
VF-211(1st): 15 Sep 1948-1949 (date unknown) | VF-211 (1st) | 1949 (date unknown) | Established as one of CVG-21(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |||
VF-212 (first use) |
VF-212(1st): 15 Sep 1948-1949 or 1950 | VF-212 (1st) | 1949 or 1950 | Established as one of CVG-21(2nd)'s initial squadrons | |||
CVG-21 (2nd): Established 1 Jul 1955, disestablished 12 Dec 1975 as CVW-21 | |||||||
VF-211 (1955-9) (second use) |
Checkmates | FJ-3 F8U |
VF-211(2nd): Jun 1955-9 Mar 1959 VF-24(3rd): 9 Mar 1959-31 Aug 1996 |
VF-24 (3rd) | 31 August 1996 | Established as one of CVG-21(3rd)'s initial squadrons. On 9 March 1959, VF-211(2nd) traded insignia, nicknames and designations with VF-24(2nd) becoming VF-24(3rd) while VF-24(2nd) became VF-211(3rd). | |
VF-211 (1959-2006) (third use) |
Checkmates | F-8U/F-8 F-14 |
VB-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-1B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-24: 1 Sep 1948-1 Dec 1949 VF-24(2nd): 1 Dec 1949-9 Mar 1959 VF-211(3rd): 9 Mar 1959-Aug 2006 VFA-211: Aug 2006-present |
VFA-211 | Not applicable, still exists | On 9 March 1959, VF-24(2nd) traded insignia, nicknames and designations with VF-211(2nd) becoming VF-211(3rd) in CVG-21(2nd) while VF-211(2nd) became VF-24(3rd) in CVG-2(2nd). | |
VF-212 (second use) |
F7U | VF-212(2nd): 20 Jun 1955-1 Apr 1956 VA-212: 1 Apr 1956-12 Dec 1975 |
VA-212 | 12 December 1975 | Established as one of CVG-21(3rd)'s initial squadrons | ||
VF-213 | Blacklions | F2H F4D F3H/F-3 F-4 F-14 |
VF-213: 22 Jun 1955-2 Apr 2006 VFA-213: 2 Apr 2006-present |
VFA-213 | Not applicable, still exists | Established as one of CVG-21(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
VF-214 | Volunteers | FJ-2 F9F-8 |
VF-214: 30 Mar 1955-11 Oct 1956 VA-214(2nd): 11 Oct 1956-1 Aug 1958 |
VA-214 (2nd) | 1 August 1958 | Established as one of CVG-21(3rd)'s initial squadrons | |
With the end of the designation system that determined squadron designation by Air Wing assignment, newly established squadrons or redesignations were numbered in accordance with factors determined at the time of establishment or redesignation. When the U. S. Navy Reserve established two Reserve Carrier Air Wings in 1970 it adopted the former system and designated the wings' squadrons accordingly. | |||||||
VF-1 (1972-93) (fifth use) |
Wolfpack | F-14 | VF-1(5th): 14 Oct 1972-30 Sep 1993 | VF-1 (5th) | 30 September 1993 | One of two squadrons established to be the first to operate the new F-14A Tomcat | |
VF-2 (1972-2003) (fifth use) |
Bounty Hunters | F-14 | VF-2(5th): 14 October 1972-1 Jul 2003 VFA-2: 1 Jul 2003-present |
VFA-2 | Not applicable, still exists | One of two squadrons established to be the first to operate the new F-14A Tomcat | |
VF-43 (1973-94) (fifth use) |
Challengers | T-38 F-21 F-16N T-2 |
VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945 VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973 VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973-1 Jul 1994 |
VF-43 (5th) | 1 July 1994 | VA-43 had been a FRS assigned to Replacement Air Group FOUR (RCVG-4) (RCVW-4 after Dec 1963). Though RCVW-4 was disestablished on 1 Jun 1970, its former squadrons retained their designations. When VA-43 was redesignated a VF squadron it retained the number "43". It operated as an "aggressor" squadron providing air to air combat training | |
VF-45 (1963-69) (second use) |
Blackbirds | TA-4 F5N F-16N |
VA-45(3rd): 15 Feb 1963-7 Feb 1985 VF-45(2nd): 7 Feb 1985-31 Mar 1996 |
VF-45 (2nd) | 31 March 1996 | VA-45(3rd) had been a FRS assigned to Replacement Air Group FOUR (RCVG-4) (RCVW-4 after Dec 1963). Though RCVW-4 was disestablished on 1 Jun 1970, its former squadrons retained their designations. When VA-45(3rd) was redesignated a VF squadron it retained the number "45". It operated as an "aggressor" squadron providing air to air combat training | |
VF-171 (1977-84) (second use) |
Aces (adopted from VF-171(1st)) |
F-4 | VF-171(2nd): 8 Aug 1977-1 Jun 1984 | VF-171 (2nd) | 1 June 1984 | Operated as an east coast VF FRS. Was "split out of" VF-101 to continue F-4 training when VF-101 transitioned to F-14 training | |
VF-191 (1986-8) (second use) |
Satan's Kittens | F-14 | VF-191(2nd): 1 Dec 1986-30 Apr 1988 | VF-191 (2nd) | 30 April 1988 | Adopted name and insignia of the disestablished VF-191(1st). Established as one of the two VF squadrons of CVW-10(2nd) but was disestablished along with the entire wing in 1988. | |
VF-194 (1986-8) (fourth use) |
Red Lightnings | F-14 | VF-194(4th): 1 Dec 1986-30 Apr 1988 | VF-194 (4th) | 30 April 1988 | Adopted name and insignia of the disestablished VF-194(3rd). Established as one of the two VF squadrons of CVW-10(2nd) but was disestablished along with the entire wing in 1988. | |
VF-201 | Hunters | F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VF-201: 25 Jul 1970-Jan 1999 VFA-201: Jan 1999-present (Inactive 30 Jun 2007-present) (same sqdn listed in VFA section) |
VFA-201 | 30 June 2007 (deactivated) | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing TWENTY (CVWR-20) | |
VF-202 | Superheats | F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VF-202: 1 Jul 1970-31 Dec 1994 | VF-202 | 31 December 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing TWENTY (CVWR-20) | |
VF-301 (second use) |
Devils Disciples | F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VF-301(2nd): 1 Oct 1970-31 Dec 1994 | VF-301 (2nd) | 31 December 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing THIRTY (CVWR-30) | |
VF-302 (second use) |
Stallions | F-8 F-4 F-14 |
VF-302(2nd): 21 May 1971-31 Dec 1994 | VF-302 (2nd) | 31 December 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing THIRTY (CVWR-30) | |
U. S. Navy Reserve Squadrons activated for service in the Korean War. There were many U. S. Navy Reserve squadrons during the period from the end of WWII through the 1960s all designated with three digit numbers in the 600, 700, 800 and 900 series. Only those few squadrons which were called to active duty are included in this table. | |||||||
VF-653 | Warrior Dragon | F4U F9F Panther |
VF-653: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-151(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-7 Feb 1956 VA-151: 7 Feb 1956-23 Feb 1959 VA-23: 23 Feb 1959-1 Apr 1970 |
VA-23 | 1 April 1970 | USNR VF-653 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-671 | Waldomen | F4U F8F F9F-5 |
VF-671: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-81(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-66(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Oct 1986 |
VA-66 (2nd) | 1 October 1986 | USNR VF-671 activated 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-713 | Vultures | F4U | VF-713: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-152(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Aug 1958 VA-152: 1 Aug 1958-29 Jan 1971 |
VA-152 | 29 January 1971 | USNR VF-713 Activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-721 | Iron Angels | F9F-2 | VF-721: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-141: 4 Feb 1953-15 Oct 1963 VF-53(4th): 15 Oct 1963-29 Jan 1971 |
VF-53 (4th) | 29 January 1971 | USNR VF-721 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 (later redesignated to CVG-14(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-742 | Iron Men | F4U F9F-5 |
VF-742: 2 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-82(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-15 April 1959 |
VF-82 (3rd) | 15 April 1959 | USNR VF-742 activated on 2 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-781 | Pacemakers | F4U F9F Panther |
VF-781: 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-121: 4 Feb 1953-30 Sep 1980 |
VF-121 | 30 September 1980 | USNR VF-781 activated in 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 (later redesignated to CVG-12(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-783 | Minute Men | F4U F9F-5 |
VF-783: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-122: 4 Feb 1953-10 Apr 1958 |
VF-122 | 10 April 1958 | USNR VF-783 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 (later redesignated to CVG-12(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-791 | Fighting Falcons | F4U F9F-6 |
VF-791: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-142(1st): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jun 1962 VF-96: 1 Jun 1962-1 Dec 1975 |
VF-96 | 1 December 1975 | USNR VF-971 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 (later redesignated to CVG-14(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-821 | F4U F9F-6 |
VF-821: 20 Jul 1959-5 Feb 1953 VF-143(1st): 4 Feb 1953-1 Apr 1958 |
VF-143 (1st) | 1 April 1958 | USNR VF-821 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 (later redesignated to CVG-14(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | ||
VF-831 | F9F Panther | VF-831: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-153(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-17 Dec 1956 VA-153: 17 Dec 1956-30 Sep 1977 |
VA-153 | 30 September 1977 | USNR VF-831 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | ||
VF-837 | F9F-2 | VF-837: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-154: 4 Feb 1953-Oct 2003 VFA-154: Oct 2003-present |
VFA-154 | Not applicable, still exists | USNR VF-837 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | ||
VF-871 | F4U | VF-871: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-123: 4 Feb 1953-12 Apr 1958 VF-53(3rd): 12 Apr 1958-20 Jun 1962 VF-143(2nd): 20 Jun 1962-2005 VFA-143: 2005-present |
VFA-143 | Not applicable, still exists | USNR VF-871 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 (later redesignated to CVG-12(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | ||
VF-874 | F4U | VF-874: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-124(1st): 4 Feb 1953-10 Apr 1958 |
VF-124 (1st) | 10 April 1958 | USNR VF-874 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 (later redesignated to CVG-12(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | ||
VF-884 | Bitter Birds | F4U | VF-884: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-144: 4 Feb 1953-23 Feb 1959 VA-52: 23 Feb 1959-31 Mar 1995 |
VA-52 | 31 March 1995 | USNR VF-884 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 (later redesignated to CVG-14(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-916 | Roaring Bulls | F4U F8F F9F-5 |
VF-916: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-83(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-83: 1 Jul 1955-3 Mar 1958 VFA-83: 3 Mar 1958-present |
VFA-83 | Not applicable, still exists | USNR VF-916 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | |
VF-921 | F4U | VF-921: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-84(2nd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-86(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-15 Jul 1987 VFA-86: 15 Jul 1987-present |
VFA-86 | Not applicable, still exists | USNR VF-921 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953 | ||
"All Weather" Fighter Squadrons 1956 to 1963 | |||||||
VF(AW)-3 (1956-8) (first use) |
Blue Nemesis | F4D A4D F8U |
VC-3(2nd): 20 May 1949-1 Jul 1956 (same sqdn in disestablished VC section) VF(AW)-3(1st): 1 Jul 1956-2 May 1958 |
VF(AW)-3 (1st) | May 2, 1958 | VF(AW): "All Weather" Fighter Squadron. Operated as a "Transition Training Unit" transitioning squadrons to new high performance jet aircraft[117] | |
VF(AW)-3 (1958-63) (second use) |
Blue Nemesis | F3D F4D/F-6 |
Navy Air Trng Unit-Pac: 22 May 1944-6 Apr 1946 NightDevRonPac: 6 Apr 1946-1 Sep 1948 Fighter All Wx Trng Unit Pac: 1 Sep 1948-2 May 1958 VF(AW)-3(2nd): 2 May 1958-Apr 1963? |
VF(AW)-3 (2nd) | April 1963? | VF(AW): "All Weather" Fighter Squadron. Redesignated VF(AW)-3(2nd) on the same day VF(AW-3)(1st) was disestablished, adopted nickname and insignia. Began operating in a continental air defense role in Dec 1955 under the control of NORAD[118] while still designated Fighter All Weather Training Unit Pacific[119] | |
VF(AW)-4 | Night Cappers | AD-5 F2H T2V[120] |
VC-4(2nd): 28 Sep 1948-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn in disestablished VC section) VF(AW)-4: 2 Jul 1956-31 Aug 1959 |
VF(AW)-4 | 31 August 1959 | VF(AW): "All Weather" Fighter Squadron. Provided fighter detachments for defense of ASW aircraft carriers[120] |
Disestablished and Deactivated Strike Fighter (VFA) squadrons
[edit]The VFA designation was created in 1980 when the VA squadrons flying the A-7E Corsair II attack aircraft began transitioning to the new F/A-18A Hornet fighter attack aircraft. The designation combined the "F" fighter and "A" attack designations from the VF and VA designations to create the new "Fighter Attack (VFA) Squadron" designation. In 1983 the VFA designation was renamed from "Fighter Attack Squadron" to "Strike Fighter Squadron"[4] and all then existing VFA squadrons were renamed from "Fighter Attack Squadron-____" to "Strike Fighter Squadron-_____".
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[ac] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[ad] | Disestablished / Deactivated as (or current designation) | Disestablished / Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VFA-15 | Valions | F/A-18A F/A-18C |
VA-67: 1Aug 1968-2 Jun 1969 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VA-15(2nd): 2 Jun 1969-1 Oct 1986 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VFA-15: 1 Oct 1986-present (inactive 31 May 2017-present) |
VFA-15 Deactivated |
31 May 2017 | ||
VFA-82 | Marauders | F/A-18C | VA-82: 1 May 1967-13 Jul 1987 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VFA-82: 13 Jul 1987-present (inactive 30 Sep 2005-present) |
VFA-82 Deactivated |
30 September 2005 | ||
VFA-127 | Cyclones | T-38B QT-38A F-5E/F F/A-18A |
VA-127: 15 Jun 1962-1 Mar 1987 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VFA-127: 1 Mar 1987-23 Mar 1996 |
VFA-127 Disestablished |
23 March 1996 | Adversary squadron to support air combat maneuver training | |
VFA-132 | Privateers | F/A-18A | VFA-132: 3 Jan 1984-1 Jun 1992 | VFA-132 Disestablished |
1 June 1992 | ||
VFA-161 | Chargers | F/A-18A | VF-161: 1 Sep 1960-1 Jun 1986 (same sqdn listed in VF section) VFA-161: 1 Jun 1986-1 Apr 1988 |
VFA-161 Disestablished |
1 April 1988 | ||
VFA-201 | Hunters | F/A-18A | VF-201: 25 Jul 1970-1 Jan 1999 (same sqdn listed in VF section) VFA-201: 1 Jan 1999-present (inactive 30 Jun 2007-present)[121] |
VFA-201 Deactivated |
30 June 2007 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron | |
VFA-203 | Blue Dolphins | F/A-18A | VA-203: 1 Jul 1970-1 Oct 1989 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VFA-203: 1 Oct 1989-present (inactive 30 Jun 2004-present)[122] |
VFA-203 Deactivated |
30 June 2004 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron | |
VFA-303 | Golden Hawks | F/A-18A | VA-303: 1 Jul 1970-1 Jan 1984 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VFA-303: 1 Jan 1984-31 Dec 1994 |
VFA-303 Disestablished |
31 December 1994 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron | |
VFA-305 | Lobos | F/A-18A | VA-305: 1 Jul 1970-1 Jan 1987 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VFA-305: 1 Jan 1987-31 Dec 1994 |
VFA-305 Disestablished |
31 December 1994 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron |
Disestablished Night Fighting (VFN) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Light Photographic Reconnaissance (VFP) squadrons
[edit]During the history of Naval Aviation, there have been several different designations used to designate photographic reconnaissance squadrons. The first squadrons specifically designated as photographic reconnaissance squadrons were designated during WWII as "Photographic Squadron (VD)". The VD designation was in use from 1943 to 1946. From 1946 to 1948 the VPP designation designated "Photographic Squadron" or "Patrol Squadron (Photographic)". In 1949, two new Photographic Reconnaissance squadrons were established as "Composite Squadrons" VC-61 and VC-62 (see the Disestablished and Deactivated Composite and Fleet Composite (VC) squadrons and VC designations no longer in use section). In 1956 VC-61 and VC-62 were redesignated "Light Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VFP) 61 and 62". The designation "VFP" was used as those two squadrons were then flying lighter fighter type aircraft modified for photographic Reconnaissance. In 1952, two additional reconnaissance squadrons were established, but instead of being designated "Composite Squadron" as were VC-61 and 62, they were designated "Photographic Squadron (VJ)" 61 and 62 (note: the VJ designation, at the same time also designated "Weather Squadron" or "Weather Reconnaissance Squadron"). In 1956 when VC-61 and 62 were redesignated VFP-61 and 62, Photographic Squadrons VJ-61 and VJ-62 were redesignated to "Heavy Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VAP) 61 and 62" (see the VAP section). The designation "VAP" was used because those two squadrons were flying heavier attack type aircraft modified for photographic reconnaissance. For a short period from 1959 to 1961 one VAP squadron and one VFP squadron were redesignated "Photographic Composite Squadron (VCP)" (see the VCP section) each one flying both a modified fighter type and a modified attack type aircraft but in 1961 they reverted to their previous VAP and VFP designations.[123]
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[ae] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[af] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VFP-61 | Eyes Of The Fleet | F2H-2P F9F-2P,6P |
VC-61: 20 Jan 1949-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VFP-61: 2 Jul 1956-1 Jul 1959 VCP-63: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1961 (same sqdn listed in VCP section) VFP-63: 1 Jul 1961-30 Jun 1984 (same sqdn listed below)[76] |
VFP-63 Disestablished |
30 June 1984 | ||
VFP-62 | Fighting Photos | F9F-6P, F9F-8P F8U-1P/RF-8A RF-8G |
VC-62: 3 Jan 1949-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VFP-62: 2 Jul 1956-5 Jan 1968[76] |
VFP-62 Disestablished |
5 January 1968 | ||
VFP-63 | Eyes Of The Fleet | F8U-1P/RF-8A RF-8G |
VC-61: 20 Jan 1949-2 Jul 1956 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VFP-61: 2 Jul 1956-1 Jul 1959 (same sqdn listed above) VCP-63: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1961 (same sqdn listed in VCP section) VFP-63: 1 Jul 1961-30 Jun 1984[76] |
VFP-63 Disestablished |
30 June 1984 | F-8 FRS from 1982 to disestablishment | |
VFP-206 | Hawkeyes | RF-8G | VFP-206: 1 Jun 1970-20 Mar 1987 | VFP-206 Disestablished |
20 March 1987 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron | |
VFP-306 | Photomasters | RF-8G | VFP-306: 1 Jun 1970-30 Sep 1984 | VFP-306 Disestablished |
30 September 1984 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron |
Disestablished Escort-Fighter (VGF) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Escort-Scouting (VGS) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Rescue (VH) Squadrons
[edit]The VH designation was a short lived designation used only during WWII to designate "Rescue Squadron" from 1944 to 1946. The squadrons operated seaplanes in the "Air-Sea Rescue" role rescuing crews of ships and aviators downed at sea.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Last Aircraft | Disestablished | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
VH-1 | Martin PBM Mariner | April 1946 | Rescue Squadron established on 1 February 1944 | ||
VH-2 | Martin PBM Mariner | November 1945 | Rescue Squadron established August 1944 | ||
VH-3 | Martin PBM Mariner | April 1946 | Rescue Squadron established on 1 August 1944 | ||
VH-4 | Martin PBM Mariner | November 1946 | Rescue Squadron established in September 1944 | ||
VH-5 | Martin PBM Mariner | June 1946 | Rescue Squadron established in September 1944 | ||
VH-6 | Martin PBM Mariner | February 1946 | Rescue Squadron established in January 1945 |
Disestablished Utility or General Utility (VJ) squadrons (first use of the VJ designation: 1925 to 1946)
[edit]VJ designated Utility squadron from 1925 to 1946.[124] In 1946 the designation for Utility Squadron was changed to "VU".
The table below contains a partial list of VU squadrons
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[ag] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[ah] | Disestablished/ Deactivated as | Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VJ-1 | Redtails | VJ-1: 4 Dec 1942-1946 VU-7: 1946-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-7(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Sep 1980 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-7 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 September 1980 | NAS Miramar Towed targets and provided adversary services for fleet and air combat maneuvering training | ||
VJ-4 | Dragon Layers | VJ-4: 15 Nov 1940-14 Nov 1946 VU-4: 15 Nov 1946-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-4(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Apr 1971 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-4 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 April 1971 | NAS Jacksonville | ||
VJ-16 | Challengers | VJ-16: 1 Dec 1943-1945 VU-10: 1945-1 Jul 1965 (same sqdn in VU section) VC-10(2nd): 1 Jul 1965-14 Aug 1993 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-10 (2nd) Disestablished |
14 August 1993 | NAS Leeward Point Guantanamo Bay |
Disestablished Weather or Weather Reconnaissance (VJ) squadrons and Photographic (VJ) squadrons (second use of the VJ designation: 1952 to 1956)
[edit]From 1952 to 1956 the VJ designation identified "Photographic Squadron" but for a year from 1952 to 1953 it also designated "Weather" or "Weather Reconniassance Squadron"[125]
During the history of Naval Aviation, there have been several different designations used to designate photographic reconnaissance squadrons. The first squadrons specifically designated as photographic reconnaissance squadrons were designated during WWII as "Photographic Squadron (VD)". The VD designation was in use from 1943 to 1946. From 1946 to 1948 the VPP designation designated "Photographic Squadron" or "Patrol Squadron (Photographic)". In 1949, two new Photographic Reconnaissance squadrons were established as "Composite Squadrons" VC-61 and VC-62 (see the Disestablished and Deactivated Composite and Fleet Composite (VC) squadrons and VC designations no longer in use section). In 1956 VC-61 and VC-62 were redesignated "Light Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VFP) 61 and 62" (see the VFP squadrons section). The designation "VFP" was used as those two squadrons were then flying lighter fighter type aircraft modified for photographic Reconnaissance. In 1952, two additional reconnaissance squadrons were established, but instead of being designated "Composite Squadron" as were VC-61 and 62, they were designated "Photographic Squadron (VJ)" 61 and 62 (note: the VJ designation, at the same time also designated "Weather Squadron" or "Weather Reconnaissance Squadron"). In 1956 when VC-61 and 62 were redesignated VFP-61 and 62, Photographic Squadrons VJ-61 and VJ-62 were redesignated to "Heavy Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VAP) 61 and 62". The designation "VAP" was used because those two squadrons were flying heavier attack type aircraft modified for photographic reconnaissance. For a short period from 1959 to 1961 one VAP squadron and one VFP squadron were redesignated "Photographic Composite Squadron (VCP)" (see the VCP section) each one flying both a modified fighter type and a modified attack type aircraft but in 1961 they reverted to their previous VAP and VFP designations.[126]
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[ai] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VJ-1 | P4Y-2S | VJ-1: 19 Mar 1952-Sep 1953 VW-3: Sep 1953-Jun 1960 (same sqdn listed in VW section)[127] |
VW-3 | June 1960[128] | Established as "Weather Squadron ONE" (VJ-1) and redesignated "Airborne Early Warning Squadron THREE" (VW-3) in 1953. Pacific Fleet Early Warning and Typhoon Hunting squadron. | ||
VJ-2 | Hurricane Hunters | [129] P2V-3W |
VJ-2: 1952-1953 VW-4: 1953-Apr 1975 (same sqdn liste in VW section) |
VW-4 | April 1975[130] | Established as "Weather Squadron TWO" (VJ-2) and redesignated Airborne Early Warning Squadron FOUR in 1953. Operated as a hurricane early warning squadron known as the "Hurricane Hunters".[131] Was again designated a "Weather Reconnaissance Squadron" (as VW-4) in 1967.[132] | |
VJ-61 | World Recorders | P4Y-1P AJ-2P |
VP-61(4th): 20 Jan 1951-5 Mar 1952 (same sqdn listed in VP section) VJ-61: 5 Mar 1952-Apr 1956 VAP-61(1st): Apr 1956-1 Jul 1959 (same sqdn listed in VAP section) VCP-61: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1961 (same sqdn listed in VCP section) VAP-61(2nd): 1 Jul 1961-1 Jul 1971 (same sqdn listed in VAP section)[133] |
VAP-61(2nd) Disestablished |
1 July 1971 | Photographic Squadron | |
VJ-62 | P4Y-1P AJ-2P F7F-4N |
VJ-62: 10 Apr 1952-2 Jul 1956 VAP-62: 2 Jul 1956-15 Oct 1969 (same sqdn listed in VAP section)[134] |
VAP-62 Disestablished |
15 October 1969 | Photographic Squadron |
Disestablished Special Air Task Force (VK) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Training (VN) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Spotting (VO) squadrons (first use of the VO designation: 1922)
[edit]Disestablished Observation Plane or Observation (VO) squadrons (second use of the VO designation: 1923 to 1945)
[edit]Disestablished Observation (VO) squadrons (third use of the VO designation: 1947 to 1949)
[edit]Disestablished Observation (VO) squadrons (fourth use of the VO designation: 1967-1968)
[edit]Disestablished Composite Spotting (VOC) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Observation Fighter (VOF) squadrons
[edit]Deactivated Electronic Countermeasures or Fleet Air Reconnaissance (VQ) squadrons
[edit]The VQ designation was created in 1955 to designate "Electronic Countermeasures Squadron" and did so though 1959. By 1960 the VQ squadrons, rather than simply jamming communications and electronic signals, had been equipped to collect them for intelligence purposes. In January 1960 this new role of the VQ squadrons was recognized by changing the VQ designation from "Electronic Countermeasures Squadron" to "Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron."[135] [136]
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[aj] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[ak] | Deactivated as | Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VQ-2 | Rangers | P4M-1Q P2V A3D-1Q A3D-2Q-EC-3B WV-2Q/EC-121M EP-3E |
VQ-2: 1 Sep 1955-present (inactive 22 May 2012-present) |
VQ-2 Deactivated |
22 May 2012 | Operated land based Comint/Elint gathering aircraft and provided detachments of EA-3Bs to carrier air wings | |
VQ-5 | Sea Shadows | ES-3A | VQ-5: 15 Apr 1991-present (inactive 30 Jul 1999-present) |
VQ-5 Deactivated |
30 July 1999 | Provided Comint/Elint dets to Carrier Air Wings | |
VQ-6 | Black Ravens | ES-3A | VQ-6: 5 Aug 1991-present (inactive 30 Sep 1999-present) |
VQ-6 Deactivated |
30 September 1999 | Provided Comint/Elint dets to Carrier Air Wings | |
VQ-11 | Bandits | EP-3J | VQ-11: 1 Jul 1997-present (inactive 31 Mar 2000-present) |
VQ-11 Deactivated |
31 March 2000 | U S Navy Reserve Squadron. Simulated hostile radar and communications jamming for fleet training |
Disestablished Transport or Air Transport or Fleet Logistic Air (VR) squadrons, Air Transport Evacuation (VRE) squadrons, Transport Ferry and Service or Air Ferry Transport or Air Ferry (VRF) squadrons, Utility Transport (VRJ) squadrons and Air Ferry Service or Ferry Command Service (VRS) squadrons
[edit]Disestablished Scouting Plane or Scouting (VS) squadrons (first use of the VS designation: 1922 to 1946)
[edit]The VS designation was one of the first designations in use appearing in 1922 as the designation for Scouting Plane or Scouting squadrons. It was used as the designation for Scouting squadron until it was formally removed from the squadron designation system in 1946,[137] but it had ceased to exist in 1943 as by the end of that year VS squadrons had all been redesignated to VF, VT, VC or VCS (cruiser scouting squadron)[76]. There were approximately 26 squadrons designated VS (scouting squadron) between the years 1922 and 1943, one of them (the second Scouting Squadron VS-41) still exists today as VFA-14, the rest were all disestablished, or redesignated then disestablished by the end of 1949.[76]
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[al] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[am] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Squadrons in operation prior to the beginning of U.S. Navy Aircraft Carrier operations. The Navy's aircraft squadron designation system came into being in the early 1920s. Prior to that time Navy aircraft were assigned to air stations but to fully utilize aviation's potential it was necessary to extend its capabilities to operate with the fleet through the organization of squadrons. Squadrons were numbered according to ship squadron numbers and were designated according to the use of the squadron's aircraft[138] such as "Scouting" or "Patrol" or "Spotting"; however, the official use of abbreviated designations such as VS, VP or VO had not yet been implemented. | |||||||
VS-1 | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Navy Directory dated 1 Jan 1922 lists the squadron and notes that it and VS-2 were combined in Dec 1921 to form one squadron[139] | |||||
VS-2 | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Navy Directory dated 1 Jan 1922 lists the squadron and notes that it and VS-1 were combined in Dec 1921 to form one squadron[140] | |||||
1 July 1922 to 1 July 1927: Naval Aviation Organization for FY 1923 issued on 17 June 1922 and implemented on 1 July 1922 changed the numbering of squadrons from according to ship squadron number to serially within each class and listed the squadrons by abbreviated designation (VF, VO, VS, VT) for the first time.[141] USS Langley (CV 1) was commissioned on 20 March 1922. | |||||||
VS-1 | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Naval Aviation Organization for Fiscal Year 1923 issued on 17 June 1922 and effective 1 July 1922 lists the squadron.[142] It may be the combined VS-1 and VS-2 listed in the Navy Directory dated 1 Jan 1922 | |||||
1 July 1927 to 1 July 1937: Suffix letters were added to squadron designations which denoted to which fleet squadrons were assigned: B-Battle Fleet, S-Scouting Fleet, A-Asiatic Fleet or "D" followed by a Naval District number for those squadrons assigned to Naval Districts.[143] Squadrons were redesignated as they were reassigned between fleets. Squadrons were assigned variously to the Aircraft Carriers USS Langley (CV 1), USS Lexington (CV 2), USS Saratoga (CV 3) and USS Ranger (CV 4) as needed to continue the development of ship based aircraft operations and tactics. | |||||||
VS-1B (first use) |
VS-1B(1st): May 1928-1930 VS-1S: 1930-1931 VS-1B(2nd): 1931-1 Jul 1937 VS-41(1st): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-42(1st): 15 Mar 1941-22 Jun 1942 |
VF-42 (1st) | 22 June 1942 | ||||
VS-1S | VS-1B: May 1928-1930 VS-1S: 1930-1931 VS-1B: 1931-1 Jul 1937 VS-41(1st): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-42(1st): 15 Mar 1941-22 Jun 1942 |
VF-42 (1st) | 22 June 1942 | ||||
VS-1B (second use) |
VS-1B(1st): May 1928-1930 VS-1S: 1930-1931 VS-1B(2nd): 1931-1 Jul 1937 VS-41(1st): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-42(1st): 15 Mar 1941-22 Jun 1942 |
VF-42 (1st) | 22 June 1942 | ||||
VS-2B | VS-2B: 3 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1937 VS-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Mar 1943 VB-4: 1 Mar 1943-15 Jul 1943 VB-5: 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VA-54(1st): 16 Aug 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-54 (1st) | 1 December 1949 | ||||
VS-3B | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Squadron was listed in the January 1929 "Fleet Organization"[144] | |||||
VS-4B | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Squadron was listed in the January 1929 "Fleet Organization"[145] | |||||
VS-5S | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Squadron was listed in the January 1929 "Fleet Organization"[146] | |||||
1 Jul 1937 through 1 Mar 1943: Squadron suffix letters were discontinued. Squadrons were redesignated to conform with the hull number of the Aircraft Carrier to which they were assigned:[147] CV 2, CV 3, CV 4 and CV 5 (USS Yorktown (CV 5) was commissioned on 30 Sep 1937). USS Langley (CV 1) had ceased operating as an Aircraft Carrier by October 1936 and had been converted to a Seaplane Tender | |||||||
Ship Named Air Groups: On 1 July 1938 existing squadrons were assigned to five newly established "Air Groups" which were established to operate from USS Lexington (CV 2), USS Saratoga (CV 3), USS Ranger (CV 4), USS Yorktown (CV 5) and USS Enterprise (CV 6) (USS Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938). The Air Groups were designated with the Aircraft Carrier's name (Lexington Air Group, Saratoga Air Group etc...) and the squadrons remained designated with the aircraft carrier's hull number (Lexington Air Group: VS-2, Saratoga Air Group: VS-3 etc...). Two new VS squadrons were established in 1939 and 1941 to equip two new Air Groups which were established in 1939 and 1941 to operate with USS Wasp (CV 7) and USS Hornet (CV 8) which were commissioned in 1940 and 1941 respectively | |||||||
VS-2 | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Squadron was listed in the Bureau of Aeronautics' Monthly Report, Status of Naval Aircraft for July 1937.[148] Was assigned to USS Yorktown (CV 2) | |||||
VS-3 | VS-2B: 3 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1937 VS-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Mar 1943 VB-4: 1 Mar 1943-15 Jul 1943 VB-5: 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VA-54(1st): 16 Aug 1948-1 Dec 1949 |
VA-54 (1st) | 1 December 1949 | Was assigned to USS Saratoga (CV 3) | |||
VS-41 (first use) |
VS-1B(1st): May 1928-1930 VS-1S: 1930-1931 VS-1B(2nd): 1931-1 Jul 1937 VS-41(1st): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941 VF-42(1st): 15 Mar 1941-22 Jun 1942 |
VF-42 (1st) | 22 June 1942 | Was assigned to USS Ranger (CV 4) as one of two VS squadrons, was redesigned as a second VF squadron in the Air Group on 15 Mar 1941 | |||
VS-41 (second use) |
Top Hatters | Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920 VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921 VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921 VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927 VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941 VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943 VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949 VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001 VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001-present |
VFA-14 | Not applicable, still exists | Oldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy. Ranger's VB squadron was redesignated VS-41(2nd) to replace VS-41(1st) when it was redesignated a VF squadron (VF-42) | ||
VS-42 | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Squadron was listed in the Bureau of Aeronautics' Monthly Report, Status of Naval Aircraft for July 1937.[149] Was assigned to USS Ranger (CV 4) as one of two VS squadrons | |||||
VS-5 | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Squadron was listed in the Bureau of Aeronautics' Monthly Report, Status of Naval Aircraft for July 1937.[150] Was assigned to USS Yorktown (CV 5) | |||||
VS-6 | Estblshmnt and Disestblshmnt unknown | Squadron was listed in the Bureau of Aeronautics' Monthly Report, Status of Naval Aircraft for July 1937.[151] Was assigned to USS Enterprise (CV 6) | |||||
Lexington Air Group, Yorktown Air Group, Wasp Air Group and Hornet Air Group were disestablished in 1942 when USS Lexington, USS Yorktown, USS Wasp and USS Hornet were sunk. Enterprise Air Group was disestablished in Sep 1942 while USS Enterprise was undergoing repairs of major damage suffered in Aug 1942 and Saratoga Air Group and Ranger Air Group were redesignated CVG-3 and CVG-4 in Aug and Sep of 1943 respectively. | |||||||
1 Mar 1943 to 15 Nov 1946: The squadron designation system was changed to cease numbering squadrons with the hull number of the ship to which it was assigned and newly established squadron were numbered serially within each class.[152] One year earlier, on 1 March 1942 new Numbered Carrier Air Groups were established, the first was CVG-9(1st) on 1 Mar 1942. Eighty eight numbered Air Groups were established during the course of WWII: CVGs were assigned to Essex Class "fleet carriers" and to CV 3, CV 4 and CV 6 which were the three pre-WWII Carriers which had not been sunk; CVBGs were assigned to Midway Class "large carriers" toward the end of the war; CVLGs were assigned to Independence class "light carriers"; and CVEGs were assigned to small "escort carriers". Each group's squadrons were all designated with that group's number and each Air Group had one VS squadron assigned. V!-1 belonged to CVG-1 etc...). A squadron reassigned from one group to another was redesignated to conform with the designation of the new group. | |||||||
Disestablished and Deactivated Air Anti-Submarine and Sea Control (VS) squadrons (second use of the VS designation: 1950 to 2009)
[edit]The VS designation was first used from 1922 to 1946 as the designation for scouting squadrons. In 1950 the VS designation was resurrected and VC squadrons which operated Anti-Submarine Aircraft were redesignated Air Anti-Submarine Squadrons (VS). In September 1993, the name of the VS designation was changed from "Air Anti-Submarine Squadron" to "Sea Control Squadron" as by that time all VS squadrons were flying the S-3B Viking which was capable of both Anti-Submarine Warfare and Anti-Surface Warfare and the new name better described the capabilities of the VS squadrons[137] All VS squadrons which existed at the time of that name change were renamed from "Air Anti-Submarine Squadron-__" to "Sea Control Squadron-__". The designation is no longer in active use but is still attached to eleven deactivated VS squadrons
The table below does not list disestablished squadrons; it is a list of squadron designations which are no longer in active use. Most of the designations in the table belonged to squadrons which have been disestablished but some belong to squadrons which still exist in an inactive status.
Note: The parenthetical (1st), (2nd), (3rd) etc... appended to some designations and the (first use), (second use), (third use) etc... in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once to designate an Antisubmarine (or after 1993, a Sea Control) squadron and which use of the designation is indicated. They are not in series with any VS designations which existed from 1922 to 1943 to designate Scouting Squadrons. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once to designate an Antisubmarine or Sea Control squadron.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[an] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[ao] | Disestablished/ Deactivated as | Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VS-20 (1953-1956) (first use) |
AF-2S,W S2F-1 |
VC-931: 1948-1 Aug 1959 VS-931: 1 Aug 1950-4 Feb 1953 VS-20(1st): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jun 1956 |
VS-20 (1st) Disestablished |
1 June 1956 | Established as VC-931 (USNR), redesigned VS-931 (USNR) then activated on 1 Mar 1951 | ||
VS-20 (1961-1962) (second use) |
S2F-1F | VS-20(2nd): 25 Aug 1961-1 Oct 1962 | VS-20 (2nd) Disestablished |
1 October 1962 | |||
VS-21 | Fighting Redtails | AF-2S,W S2F-1,1F/S-2F,E S-3A,B |
CVEG-41: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 CVEG-1: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VC-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-23 Apr 1959 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-21: 23 Apr 1950-present[153] (inactive 28 Feb 2005-present) |
VS-21 Deactivated |
28 February 2005 | Escort Carrier Air Group-1 was redesignated as a single squadron designated VC-21 on 1 Sep 1948.[154] Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-22 (1950-1956) (first use) |
Checkmates | AF-2S,W | VT-42: 19 Jul 1945-15 Nov 1946 (same sqdn listed in VT(torpedo) section) VA-2E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VC-22(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-20 Apr 1950 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-22(1st): 20 April 1950-1 Jun 1956[155] |
VS-22 (1st) Disestablished |
1 June 1956 | ||
VS-22 (1960-2009) (second use) |
Checkmates | S2F-1/S-2F,E S-3A,B |
VS-22(2nd): 18 May 1960-present[156] (inactive 31 Mar 2009-present) |
VS-22 (2nd) Deactivated |
31 March 2009 | Adopted name and insignia from disestablished VS-22(1st). Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-23 | Black Cats | S2F-1/S-2A,E | VA-3E: 21 Apr 1947-1 Sep 1948 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VC-23(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-23 Apr 1959 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-23: 23 Apr 1950-27 Sep 1968[157] |
VS-23 Disestablished |
27 September 1968 | ||
VS-24 (1950-1956) (first use) |
Duty Cats | AF-2S,W S2F-1 |
VB-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-5B: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VA-64(1st): 27 Jul 1948-8 Apr 1949 (same sqdn listed in VA section) VC-24(2nd): 8 Apr 1949-20 Apr 1959 (same sqdn listed in VC squadron) VS-24(1st): 20 Apr 1950-1 Jun 1956[158] |
VS-24 (1st) Disestablished |
1 June 1956 | ||
VS-24 (1960-2007) (second use) |
Scouts | S2F-1/S-2A,F,D,E,G S-3A,B |
VS-24(2nd): 24 May 1960-present[159] (inactive 31 Mar 2007-present) |
VS-24 (2nd) Deactivated |
31 March 2007 | Adopted insignia from disestablished VS-24(1st). Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-25 (1950-1956) (first use) |
Golden Eagles | AF-2S,W S2F-1 |
VC-25(3rd): 1 Apr 1949-20 Apr 1950 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-25(1st): 20 Apr 1950-1 Jun 1956 |
VS-25 (1st) Disestablished |
1 June 1956 | ||
VS-25 (1960-1968) (second use) |
Golden Eagles | S2F-1F/S-2F,E | VS-25(2nd): 1 Sep 1960-27 Sep 1968 | VS-25 (2nd) Disestablished |
27 September 1968 | Adopted name and insignia from disestablished VS-25(1st) | |
VS-26 (1950-1956) (first use) |
Ready Squadron | TBM-3E,W S2F-1 |
VS-26(1st): 1 Sep 1950-26 May 1956 | VS-26 (1st) Disestablished |
26 May 1956 | ||
VS-26 (1960-1966) (second use) |
Lucky Tigers | S2F-2F/S-2B,D | VS-26(2nd): 1 Jun 1960-31 May 1966 | VS-26 (2nd) Disestablished |
31 May 1966 | ||
VS-27 (1950-1973) (first use) |
Pelicans | TBM-3S,W AF-2S,W S2F-1,1F/S-2F,E,G |
VS-27(1st): 15 Nov 1950-30 Jun 1973[160] | VS-27 (1st) Disestablished |
30 June 1973 | ||
VS-27 (1987-1994) (second use) |
Sea Wolves | S-3A | VS-27: 22 Jan 1987-30 Sep 1994[160] | VS-27 (2nd) Disestablished |
30 September 1994 | First S-3A Squadron, East Coast FRS Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-28 | Gamblers | S2F-1/S-2A,E S-3A,B |
VS-28: 1 Jun 1960-1 Oct 1992 | VS-28 Disestablished |
1 October 1992 | ||
VS-29 | Dragonfires | S2F-1/S-2A,F,E S-3A,B |
VS-29: 1 April 1960-present[161] (inactive 30 Apr 2004-present) |
VS-29 Deactivated |
30 April 2004 | Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-30 | Sea Tigers, Diamondcutters (1960) |
TBM-3E,W AF-2S,W S2F-1/S-2A,D,E,G S-3A,B |
VS-801: 9 Apr 1951-4 Feb 1953 VS-30: 4 Feb 1953-present[162] (inactive 20 Apr 2007-present) |
VS-30 Deactivated |
20 April 2007 (official) Deactivation ceremony was 9 Dec 2005 |
VS-801 (USNR) activated on 9 Apr 1951. S-2 FRS Jun 1960-Apr 1976.[163] Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-31 | Topcats | TBM-3S,W AF-2S,W S2F-1/S-2A,F,E,G S-3A,B |
VC-31(3rd): 28 Sep 1948-20 Apr 1950 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-31: 20 Apr 1950-present[164] (inactive 31 Mar 2008-present) |
VS-31 Deactivated |
31 March 2008 | Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-32 | Maulers | TBM-3E,W S2F-1/S-2A,B,F,E S-3A,B |
VC-32(2nd): 31 May 1949-20 Apr 1950 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-32: 20 Apr 1950-present[165] (inactive 30 Sep 2008-present) |
VS-32 Deactivated |
30 September 2008 | Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-33 | Screwbirds | S2F-1/S-2A,E,G S-3A,B |
VS-33: 1 Apr 1960-present[166] (inactive 31 Jul 2006-present) |
VS-33 Deactivated |
31 July 2006 | Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-34 | Proud Tigers | S2F-1, S-2D,E | VS-34: 2 May 1960-1 Oct 1968 | VS-34 Disestablished |
1 October 1968 | ||
VS-35 (1961-1973) (first use) |
Boomerangers | S2F-1,3/S-2D,E | VS-35(1st): 3 Jan 1961-30 Jun 1973 | VS-35 (1st) Disestablished |
30 June 1973 | ||
VS-35 (1976-1977) (second use) |
None | VS-35(2nd): 1 Oct 1976-30 Mar 1977 | VS-35 (2nd) Disestablished |
30 March 1977 | Squadron was established in anticipation of the production of the S-3A Viking, but fiscal constraints prevented completion of the squadron stand up and it was disestablished after only six months. | ||
VS-35 (1987-1988) (third use) |
Blue Wolves | S-3A | VS-35(3rd): 3 Mar 1987-1 Jun 1988 | VS-35 (3rd) Disestablished |
1 June 1988 | Was established as part of the newly formed Carrier Air Wing 10 which was subsequently disestablished on 30 Sep 1988 due to fiscal constraints. | |
VS-35 (1991-2005) (fourth use) |
Blue Wolves | S-3A,B | VS-35(4th): 4 Apr 1991-present[167] (inactive 31 Mar 2005-present) |
VS-35 (4th) Deactivated |
31 March 2005 | Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-36 | Gray Wolves | TBM-3E,W AF-2S,W S2F-2, S-2D |
VS-831: 8 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VS-36: 4 Feb 1953-31 May 1966 |
VS-36 Disestablished |
31 May 1966 | VS-831 (USNR) activated on 8 Feb 1951 | |
VS-37 | Sawbucks | TBM-3E,W AF-2S,W S2F-1,1F, S-2D,E,G S-3A,B |
VS-871: 1 May 1951-8 Jul 1953 VS-37: 8 July 1953-31 Mar 1995 |
VS-37 Disestablished |
31 March 1995 | VA-76E (USNR) established in 1946, redesigned VC-871 (USNR) in 1948, redesigned VS-871 (USNR) in 1950 and activated on 1 May 1951 | |
VS-38 | Red Griffins | TBM-3E,S S2F-1/S-2A,E,G S-3A,B |
VC-892: 20 Jul 1950-4 Aug 1950 VS-892: 4 Aug 1950-4 Feb 1953 VS-38: 4 Feb 1953-present[168] (inactive 30 Apr 2004-present) |
VS-38 Deactivated |
30 April 2004 | VC-892 (USNR) activated on 20 Jul 1950, redesigned VS-892 (USNR). Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-39 | Hoot Owls | TBM-3S,W AF-2S,W S2F-1/S-3A,D,E |
VS-913: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VS-39: 4 Feb 1953-30 Sep 1968 |
VS-39 Disestablished |
30 September 1968 | VS-913 (USNR) activated on 1 Feb 1951 | |
VS-41 | Shamrocks | S2F-1F/S-2F,D,E S-3A,B |
VS-41: 30 June 1960-present[169] (inactive 30 Sep 2006-present) |
VS-41 Deactivated |
30 September 2006 | FRS. Renamed "Sea Control Squadron" in Sep 1993 | |
VS-42 | S2F-1F | VS-42: 25 Aug 1961-1 Oct 1962 | VS-42 Disestablished |
1 October 1962 | |||
VS-71 | S-2E | VS-71: 1 Jul 1970-1 Jan 1975 | VS-71 Disestablished |
1 January 1975 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-70 | ||
VS-72 | S-2E | VS-72: 1 Jul 1970-1 Jun 1976 | VS-72 Disestablished |
1 June 1976 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-70 | ||
VS-73 | Blue Bandits | S-2E | VS-73: 1 Jul 1970-30 Jun 1976 | VS-73 Disestablished |
30 June 1976 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-70 | |
VS-81 | S-2E | VS-81: 1 Jul 1970-1 Jul 1975 | VS-81 Disestablished |
1 July 1975 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-80 | ||
VS-82 | S-2E | VS-82: 1 Jul 1970-1 Jul 1975 | VS-82 Disestablished |
1 July 1975 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-80 | ||
VS-83 | S-2E | VS-83: 1 Jul 1970-1 Jul 1975 | VS-83 Disestablished |
1 July 1975 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-80 |
Disestablished Anti-Submarine Fighter (VSF) squadrons
[edit]The VSF designation existed from 1965 to 1973[170] and designated squadrons which provided detachments of fighter or attack aircraft to Anti-Submarine Air Groups (CVSG)s which deployed aboard Anti-Submarine Carriers (CVS) for defense of the Carrier.
Disestablished Torpedo & Bombing and Torpedo (VT) squadrons and VT designations no longer in use (first use of the VT designation: 1922 to 1946)
[edit]The VT designation is one of the earliest used by the U.S. Navy. A "Torpedo Plane Squadron" existed as early as 1920 but the use of abbreviated squadron designations (such as "VT") did not come into accepted use until 1922. From 1922 to 1930 it designated "Torpedo & Bombing Plane Squadrons" or "Torpedo and Bombing Squadrons". In 1930 it designated "Torpedo Squadrons" until 1946 when all remaining VT squadrons were redesignated Attack (VA) squadrons and the VT designation disappeared. Between 1927 and 1937 a suffix letter was added after the designation number to identify to which fleet or Naval District the squadron belonged: B for Battle Fleet, S for Scouting Fleet, A for Asiatic Fleet or D followed by a Naval District number for those squadrons assigned to Naval Districts.[171] On 15 November 1946 the squadron designation system underwent a major change; the 17 still existing VT and 14 still existing Bombing (VB) squadrons were redesignated Attack (VA) squadrons and the VT and VB designations were eliminated. On 1 May 1960 the VT designation was resurrected as the designation for training squadrons[172] but there is no relationship between the training squadrons which have used the VT designation since 1960 and the Torpedo or Torpedo and Bombing squadrons of the 1920s to 1940s. The VTN designation was used from 1944 to 1946 to designate "Night Torpedo Squadrons"
The table below is a partial list of the approximately 90 to 100 squadrons which carried the VT designation between 1921 and 1946.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[ap] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[aq] | Disestablished as (or current designation) |
Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Squadrons in operation prior to the beginning of U.S. Navy Aircraft Carrier operations. The Navy's aircraft squadron designation system came into being in the early 1920s. Prior to that time Navy aircraft were assigned to air stations but to fully utilize aviation's potential it was necessary to extend its capabilities to operate with the fleet through the organization of squadrons. Squadrons were numbered according to ship squadron numbers and were designated according to the use of the squadron's aircraft[173] such as "Torpedo" or "Patrol" or "Combat"; however, the official use of abbreviated designations such as VT, VP or VF had not yet been implemented. | |||||||
VT-5 (first use) |
Top Hatters | [ar] Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920 VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921 VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921 VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927 VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941 VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943 VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949 VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001 VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001-present |
VFA-14 | Not applicable, still exists | Oldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy | ||
1 July 1922 to 1 July 1927: Naval Aviation Organization for FY 1923 issued on 17 June 1922 and implemented on 1 July 1922 changed the numbering of squadrons from according to ship squadron number to serially within each class and listed the squadrons by abbreviated designation (VF, VO, VS, VT) for the first time.[174] USS Langley (CV 1) was commissioned on 20 March 1922, VT-2 operated from USS Langley (CV 1) conducting experimentation in the concept of shipborne aviation. | |||||||
VT-1 (first use) |
T3M | VT-1(1st): 1926-1 Jul 1927 VT-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927- Jun 1932 VT-1S: Jun 1932-Apr 1933 VT-1B(2nd): Apr 1933-1934 VB-1B: 1934-1 Jul 1937 VT-2(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-6 Nov 1942 |
VT-2 (2nd) | 6 November 1942 | |||
VT-2 (first use) |
Dragons | DT SC CS T2D |
VT-2(1st): 1925-1 Jul 1927 VT-2B: 1 Jul 1927- 1 Jul 1937 VT-3: 1 Jul 1937-15 Nov 1946 VA-4A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VA-35(1st): 7 Aug 1948-7 Nov 1949 |
VA-35 (1st) | 7 November 1949 | Assigned to "Aircraft Squadrons, Battle Fleet". Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) | |
VT-19D14 | DT | [as] VT-19D14: 7 Feb 1924-1 Jul 1927 VT-6D14: 1 Jul 1927-1 Apr 1931 VP-6B: 1 Apr 1931-17 Jul 1933 VP-6F: 17 Jul 1933-1 Oct 1937 VP-6(2nd): 1 Oct 1937-1 Jul 1939 VP-23(1st): 1 Jul 1939-1 Aug 1941 VP-11(3rd): 1 Aug 1941-1 Oct 1944 VPB-11: 1 Oct 1944-20 Jun 1945 |
VPB-11 | 20 June 1945 | Assigned to Naval District 14 | ||
1 July 1927 to 1 July 1937: Suffix letters were added to squadron designations which denoted to which fleet squadrons were assigned: B-Battle Fleet, S-Scouting Fleet, A-Asiatic Fleet or "D" followed by a Naval District number for those squadrons assigned to Naval Districts.[175] Squadrons were redesignated as they were reassigned between fleets. Squadrons were assigned variously to the Aircraft Carriers USS Langley (CV 1), USS Lexington (CV 2), USS Saratoga (CV 3) and USS Ranger (CV 4) as needed to continue the development of ship based aircraft operations and tactics. | |||||||
VT-1B (first use) |
T3M T4M |
VT-1(1st): 1926-1 Jul 1927 VT-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927- Jun 1932 VT-1S: Jun 1932-Apr 1933 VT-1B(2nd): Apr 1933-1934 VB-1B: 1934-1 Jul 1937 VT-2(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-6 Nov 1942 |
VT-2 (2nd) | 6 November 1942 | |||
VT-1S | T4M BM |
VT-1(1st): 1926-1 Jul 1927 VT-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927- Jun 1932 VT-1S: Jun 1932-Apr 1933 VT-1B(2nd): Apr 1933-1934 VB-1B: 1934-1 Jul 1937 VT-2(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-6 Nov 1942 |
VT-2 (2nd) | 6 November 1942 | |||
VT-1B (second use) |
BM | VT-1(1st): 1926-1 Jul 1927 VT-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927- Jun 1932 VT-1S: Jun 1932-Apr 1933 VT-1B(2nd): Apr 1933-1934 VB-1B: 1934-1 Jul 1937 VT-2(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-6 Nov 1942 |
VT-2 (2nd) | 6 November 1942 | |||
VT-2B | (1928) |
Dragons | T2D T3M TB T4M, TG |
VT-2(1st): 1925-1 Jul 1927 VT-2B: 1 Jul 1927- 1 Jul 1937 VT-3: 1 Jul 1937-15 Nov 1946 VA-4A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VA-35(1st): 7 Aug 1948-7 Nov 1949 |
VA-35 (1st) | 7 November 1949 | Assigned to "Aircraft Squadrons, Battle Fleet" until 9 Apr 1927 when it was assigned to Saratoga (CV 3) air group |
VT-3D15 | T3M | [at] VT-3D15: 12 Jul 1928-21 Jan 1931 VP-3S: 21 Jan 1931-17 Jul 1933 VP-3F: 1 Jul 1933-1 Oct 1937 VP-3(1st): 1 Oct 1937-1 Jul 1939 VP-32(1st): 1 Jul 1939-1 Jul 1941 VP-52(2nd): 1 Jul 1941-1 Oct 1944 VPB-52: 1 Oct 1944-7 Apr 1945 |
VPB-52 | 7 April 1945 | Assigned to Naval District 15
| ||
VT-6D14 | SC T3M |
[au] VT-19D14: 7 Feb 1924-1 Jul 1927 VT-6D14: 1 Jul 1927-1 Apr 1931 VP-6B: 1 Apr 1931-17 Jul 1933 VP-6F: 17 Jul 1933-1 Oct 1937 VP-6(2nd): 1 Oct 1937-1 Jul 1939 VP-23(1st): 1 Jul 1939-1 Aug 1941 VP-11(3rd): 1 Aug 1941-1 Oct 1944 VPB-11: 1 Oct 1944-20 Jun 1945 |
VPB-11 | 20 June 1945 | Assigned to Naval District 14
| ||
VT-7B | TBD | VT-7B: Jun 1937-1 Jul 1937 VT-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-Jul 1942 |
VT-5 (2nd) | Jul 1942 | Established and redesignated on 1 Jul as Yorktown (CV 5) Air Group's VT squadron. | ||
VT-8B | TBD | VT-8B: Jun 1937-1 Jul 1937 VT-6(1st): 1 Jul 1937-Feb 1943 |
VA-6 (1st) | Jul 1942 | Established and redesignated on 1 Jul as Enterprise (CV 6) Air Group's VT squadron.
| ||
1 Jul 1937 through 1 Mar 1943: Squadron suffix letters were discontinued. Squadrons were redesignated to conform with the hull number of the Aircraft Carrier to which they were assigned:[176] CV 2, CV 3, CV 4 and CV 5 (USS Yorktown (CV 5) was commissioned on 30 Sep 1937). USS Langley (CV 1) had ceased operating as an Aircraft Carrier by October 1936 and had been converted to a Seaplane Tender | |||||||
Ship Named Air Groups: On 1 July 1938 existing squadrons were assigned to five newly established "Air Groups" which were established to operate from USS Lexington (CV 2), USS Saratoga (CV 3), USS Ranger (CV 4), USS Yorktown (CV 5) and USS Enterprise (CV 6) (USS Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938). The Air Groups were designated with the Aircraft Carrier's name (Lexington Air Group, Saratoga Air Group etc...) and the squadrons remained designated with the aircraft carrier's hull number (Lexington Air Group: VT-2, Saratoga Air Group: VT-3 etc...). Two new VT squadrons were established in 1939 and 1941 to equip two new Air Groups which were established in 1939 and 1941 to operate with USS Wasp (CV 7) and USS Hornet (CV 8) which were commissioned in 1940 and 1941 respectively | |||||||
VT-2 (second use) |
TBD | VT-1: 1926-1 Jul 1927 VT-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927- Jun 1932 VT-1S: Jun 1932-Apr 1933 VT-1B(2nd): Apr 1933-1934 VB-1B: 1934-1 Jul 1937 VT-2(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-6 Nov 1942 |
VT-2 (2nd) | 6 November 1942 | Redesignated VT-2 as Lexington's (CV 2) VT squadron (became Lexington Air Group's VT squadron upon the group's establishment on 1 Jul 1938). Disestablished with the disestablishment Lexington Air Group after USS Lexington was sunk | ||
VT-3 | Dragons | T4M, TG TBD TBF, TBM |
VT-2(1st): 1925-1 Jul 1927 VT-2B: 1 Jul 1927- 1 Jul 1937 VT-3: 1 Jul 1937-15 Nov 1946 VA-4A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VA-35(1st): 7 Aug 1948-7 Nov 1949 |
VA-35 (1st) | 7 November 1949 | Redesignated VT-3 as Saratoga's (CV 3) VT squadron (became Saratoga Air Group's VT squadron upon the group's establishment on 1 Jul 1938). Saratoga Air Group redesignated CVG-3 in Sep 1943, remained as CVG-3's VT squadron. Redesignated after the war with CVG-3's redesignation | |
VT-4 | TBD TBF, TBM |
VT-4: 10 Jan 1942-15 Nov 1946 VA-2A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-15(1st): 2 Aug 1948-1 Jun 1969 |
VA-15 (1st) | 1 June 1969 | Established as Ranger (CV 4) Air Group's VT squadron (Ranger Air Group had no VT squadron prior to VT-4's establishment). Ranger Air Group redesignated CVG-4 in Aug 1943, remained as CVG-4's VT squadron. Redesignated after the war with CVG-4's redesignation | ||
VT-5 (second use) |
TBD | VT-7B: Jun 1937-1 Jul 1937 VT-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-Jul 1942 |
VT-5 (2nd) | Jul 1942 | Redesignated as Yorktown's (CV 5) VT squadron (became Yorktown Air Group's VT squadron upon the group's establishment on 1 Jul 1938). Yorktown Air Group disestablished in Jun 1942 after the sinking of USS Yorktown | ||
VT-6(1st) | TBD | VT-8B: Jun 1937-1 Jul 1937 VT-6(1st): 1 Jul 1937-Feb 1943 |
VA-6 (1st) | Jul 1942 | Redesignated as Enterprise's (CV 6) VT squadron (became Enterprise Air Group's VT squadron upon the group's establishment on 1 Jul 1938). Enterprise Air Group disestablished in Sep 1942 while USS Enterprise was undergoing major repairs
| ||
VT-8 (first use) |
SBN TBD |
VT-8(1st): Sep 1941-Jan 1943[177] | VT-8(1st) | January 1943 | Hornet (CV 8) Air Group's VT squadron until Hornet Air Group was disestablished in Oct 1942 after the sinking of USS Hornet
| ||
Lexington Air Group, Yorktown Air Group, Wasp Air Group and Hornet Air Group were disestablished in 1942 when USS Lexington, USS Yorktown, USS Wasp and USS Hornet were sunk. Enterprise Air Group was disestablished in Sep 1942 while USS Enterprise was undergoing repairs of major damage suffered in Aug 1942 and Saratoga Air Group and Ranger Air Group were redesignated CVG-3 and CVG-4 in Aug and Sep of 1943 respectively. | |||||||
1 Mar 1943 to 15 Nov 1946: The squadron designation system was changed to cease numbering squadrons with the hull number of the ship to which it was assigned and newly established squadron were numbered serially within each class.[178] One year earlier, on 1 March 1942 new Numbered Carrier Air Groups were established, the first was CVG-9(1st) on 1 Mar 1942. Eighty eight numbered Air Groups were established during the course of WWII: CVGs were assigned to Essex Class "fleet carriers" and to CV 3, CV 4 and CV 6 which were the three pre-WWII Carriers which had not been sunk; CVBGs were assigned to Midway Class "large carriers" toward the end of the war; CVLGs were assigned to Independence class "light carriers"; and CVEGs were assigned to small "escort carriers". Each group's squadrons were all designated with that group's number and each Air Group had one VT squadron assigned. VT-1 belonged to CVG-1 etc...). A squadron reassigned from one group to another was redesignated to conform with the designation of the new group. | |||||||
VT-1 (second use) |
TBF, TBM | VT-1(2nd): May 1943-Oct 1945 | VT-1 (2nd) | October 1945 | Established with CVG-1 as its VT squadron, disestablished with CVG-1 at the end of the war | ||
VT-2 (third use) |
TBM | VT-2(3rd): 1 Jun 1943-9 Nov 1945 | VT-2 (3rd) | 9 November 1945 | Established with CVG-2 as its VT squadron, disestablished with CVG-2 at the end of the war
| ||
VT-5 (third use) |
Torpcats | TBM | VT-5(3rd): 15 Feb 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-6A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948 VA-55(1st): 16 Aug 1948-12 Dec 1975 |
VA-55 (1st) | 19 December 1975 | Established with CVG-5 as its VT squadron. Redesignated after the war with CVG-5's redesignation | |
VT-7 | |||||||
VT-8 (second use) |
TBF | VT-8(2nd): June 1943-Nov 1945 | 1945 | Established with CVG-8 as its VT squadron, disestablished with CVG-8 at the end of the war | |||
VT-11 | TBM | VT-11: 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946 VA-12A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-115: 15 Jul 1948-30 Sep 1996 VFA-115: 30 Sep 1996-present |
VFA-115 | Not applicable, still exists | |||
VT-17 | SB2C AD |
VT-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-6B: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-65(1st): 27 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-25(2nd): 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1983 VFA-125: 1 Jul 1983-present |
VFA-25 | Not applicable, still exists | |||
VT-18 | Air Barons | TBM | VT-18: 20 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-8A: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-75(1st): 27 Jul 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-75 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | ||
VT-19 | TBM AD |
VT-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-20A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948' VA-195: 24 Aug 1948-15 Apr 1985 VFA-195: 15 Apr 1985-present |
VFA-195 | Not applicable, still exists | |||
VT-20 | TBM | VT-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-10A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948 VA-95(1st): 12 Aug 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-95 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | |||
VT-41 | TBM | VT-41: 26 Mar 1946-15 Nov 1946 VA-1E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 |
VA-1E | 1 September 1948 | |||
VT-42 | TBM | VT-42: 19 Jul 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-2E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VC-22(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-20 Apr 1950 (same sqdn listed in VC section) VS-22(1st): 20 Apr 1950-1 Jun 1956 (same sqdn listed in VS section) |
VS-22 (2nd) | 1 June 1956 | |||
VT-58 | TBM XTB2D AD |
VT-58: 19 Mar 1946-15 Nov 1946 VA-1L: 15 Nov 1946-20 Nov 1948 |
VA-1L | 20 November 1948 | |||
VT-74 | SB2C, SBW TBM SNJ AD |
VT-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-2B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-25(1st): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-65(2nd): 1 Jul 1959-31 Mar 1993 |
VA-65 (2nd) | 31 March 1993 | |||
VT-75 | Fish Hawks | SB2C AD |
VT-75: 1 Jun 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-4B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-45(1st): 1 Sep 1948-8 Jun 1950 |
VA-45 (1st) | 8 June 1950 | ||
VT-81 | Uninvited | TBM | VT-81: 1 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-14A: 15 Nov 1946- 2 Aug 1948 VA-135(1st): 2 Aug 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-135 (1st) | 30 November 1949 | ||
VT-82 | Devils Diplomats | TBM | VT-82: 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-18A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948 VA-175: 11 Aug 1948-15 Mar 1958 |
VA-175 | 15 March 1958 | ||
VT-98 | TBM | VT-98: 28 Aug 1944-15 Nov 1946 VA-22A: 15 Nov 1946-5 Aug 1947 |
VA-22A | 5 August 1947 | |||
VT-153 | TBM | VT-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-16A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-155(1st): 15 Jul 1948-30 Nov 1949 |
VA-155 (1st) | 30 November 1949 |
Disestablished and Deactivated Training (VT) squadrons (second use of the VT designation: 1960 to present)
[edit]From 1920 to 1946 the VT designation designated "Torpedo Plane Squadron", "Torpedo & Bombing Plane Squadrons", "Torpedo and Bombing Squadrons" and "Torpedo Squadron". The VT designation was retired in 1946 when all remaining VT squadrons were redesignated as VA squadrons. On 1 May 1960 the VT designation was resurrected and existing flying training units were designated "Training Squadrons (VT)".[179] There is no relationship between the training squadrons using the VT designation after 1960 and the Torpedo or Torpedo and Bombing squadrons of the 1920s to 1940s. From 1927 to 1947 training squadrons used the designation "VN".[180] From 1947 to 1960 training units were not designated as squadrons, they were "units" or "groups" called Basic Training Groups (BTG), Advanced Training Units (ATU), Jet Transition Training Units (JTTU) or Multi Engine Training Groups (METG).
Note: The parenthetical (1st) and (2nd) appended to the VT-9 designations in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used twice to designate two different training squadrons. They are not counted in sequence with the actual first use of the VT-9 designation during WWII to designate Torpedo Squadron Nine.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[av] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates | Disestablished/ Deactivated as (or current designation) |
Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VT-1 | Eaglets | T-34B | BTG-1: redesignated VT-1 on 1 May 1960 VT-1: 1 May 1960-1 Oct 1976[181] |
VT-1 Disestablished |
1 October 1976 | Training Air Wing SEVEN, NAS Saufley Field. Primary training squadron | |
VT-5 | Pussycats | T-28C T-34B 1974 |
BTG-5: redesignated VT-5 on 1 May 1960 VT-5: 1 May 1960-1 Oct 1976[182] |
VT-5 Disestablished |
1 October 1976 | Training Air Wing SEVEN, NAS Saufley Field. Carrier Qualification training squadron until 1974, then a primary training squadron | |
VT-9 (first training squadron use) |
Tigers | T2J-1/T-2A 1961 T-2C 1969 |
VT-9(1st): 15 Dec 1961-Jul 1987 | VT-9(1st) Disestablished |
July 1987 | Training Air Wing ONE, NAS Meridian. Jet training squadron | |
VT-19 | Fighting Frogs | T-2C | VT-19: 2 Aug 1971-1 Oct 1998 VT-9(2nd): 1 Oct 1998-present. |
VT-9(2nd) | Not applicable, still exists | Training Air Wing ONE, NAS Meridian. Jet training squadron | |
VT-23 | Professionals | F11F-1/F-11A 1958 TF-9J 1965 TA-4J 1970 T-2C 1972 T-45C 1997 |
ATU-222: 11 Nov 1958-1 May 1960 VT-23: 1 May 1960-present (Inactive 30 Sep 1999-present) |
VT-23 Deactivated |
30 September 1999 | Training Air Wing TWO, NAS Kingsville. Reassigned to Training Air Wing ONE, NAS Meridian in 1994.[183] Jet training squadron | |
VT-24 | Bobcats | F9F-8T/TF-9J 1954 TA-4J 1972 |
ATU-203: 1 Jul 1954-1 May 1960 VT-24: 1 May 1960-18 Sep 1992[184] |
VT-24 Disestablished |
18 September 1992 | Training Air Wing THREE, NAS Chase Field. Jet training squadron | |
VT-25 | Cougars | F9F-8T/TF-9J 1954 TA-4J 1972 |
ATU-204: 1 Jul 1954-1955 ATU-213: 1955-1 May 1960 VT-25: 1 May 1960-18 Sep 1992.[185] |
VT-25 Disestablished |
18 September 1992 | Training Air Wing THREE, NAS Chase Field. Jet training squadron | |
VT-26 | Tigers | F11F-1/F-11A 1960 TF-9J 1967 T-2C 1971 |
ATU-223: 1 Mar 1960-1 May 1969 VT-26: 1 May 1960-22 May 1992[186] |
VT-26 Disestablished |
22 May 1992 | Training Air Wing THREE, NAS Chase Field. Jet training squadron | |
VT-29 | R4D-8T/TC-117D T-29 |
ATU-501: redesignated VT-29 on 1 May 1960[187] 1 May 1960-31 Dec 1976.[188] |
VT-29 Disestablished |
31 December 1976[189] | NAS Corpus Christi. Land Based multi-engine aircraft navigator training squadron | ||
VT-30 | AD/A-1H T-28 |
ATU-301: redesignated VT-30 on 1 May 1960[190] 1 May 1960-mid 1960s. |
VT-30 Disestablished |
Mid 1960s[191] | NAS Corpus Christi. |
Disestablished Utility (VU) squadrons
[edit]The VU designation was used from 1946 to 1965.[192] Prior to the creation of the "VU" designation utility squadrons were designated "VJ". In 1965 still existing VU squadrons were redesignated Fleet Composite (VC) squadrons (third use of the VC designation).
The table below contains a partial list of VU squadrons
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[aw] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[ax] | Disestablished/ Deactivated as | Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VU-1 (second use) |
Blue Alli | VU-1(2nd): 20 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1965 VC-1(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Sep 1992 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-1 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 September 1992 | NAS Barbers Point Provided adversary servies for fleet and air combat maneuvering training. Also provided aerial target, aerial photographic, target drone and range services[193] | ||
VU-2 | Blue Falcons | VU-2: 8 Jan 1952-1 Jul 1965 VC-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Sep 1980 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-2 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 September 1980 | NAS Oceana Provided adversary services for fleet and air combat maneuvering training[194] | ||
VU-3 (second use) |
Iron Man | VU-3(2nd): Dec 1948-1 Jul 1965 VC-3(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-1 Oct 1981 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-3 (3rd) Disestablished |
1 October 1981 | NAS North Island Provided target drone services | ||
VU-4 | Dragon Layers | VJ-4: 15 Nov 1940-14 Nov 1946 (same sqdn in VJ(1st) section) VU-4: 15 Nov 1946-1 Jul 1965 VC-4(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Apr 1971 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-4 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 April 1971 | NAS Jacksonville | ||
VU-5 (second use) |
Checkertails | VU-5(2nd): 16 Aug 1950-1 Jul 1965 VC-5(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-31 Aug 1992 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-5 (2nd) Disestablished |
31 August 1992 | NAS Cubi Point | ||
VU-6 (second use) |
Skeeters | VU-6(2nd): 1 Mar 1952-1 Jul 1965 VC-6(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-present[195] (same sqdn in VC section) (inactive 30 Jun 2008-present) |
VC-6 (3rd) Deactivated |
30 June 2008 | NAS Norfolk Operated target drones (surface and air) | ||
VU-7 | Redtails | VJ-1: 4 Dec 1942-1946 (same sqdn in VJ(1st) section) VU-7: 1946-1 Jul 1965 VC-7(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-30 Sep 1980 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-7 (3rd) Disestablished |
30 September 1980 | NAS Miramar Towed targets and provided adversary services for fleet and air combat maneuvering training | ||
VU-8 | Redtails | *GMSR-2: 1 Jul 1958-1 Jul 1960 VU-8: 1 Jul 1960-1 Jul 1965 VC-8(3rd): 1 Jul 1965-present[196] (same sqdn in VC section) (inactive 1 Oct 2003-present) |
VC-8 (3rd) Deactivated |
1 October 2003 | *GMSR: Guided Missile Service Squadron NS Roosevelt Roads | ||
VU-10 | Challengers | VJ-16: 1 Dec 1943-1945 (same sqdn in VJ(1st) section) VU-10: 1945-1 Jul 1965 VC-10(2nd): 1 Jul 1965-14 Aug 1993 (same sqdn in VC section) |
VC-10 (2nd) Disestablished |
14 August 1993 | NAS Leeward Point Guantanamo Bay |
Disestablished Airborne Early Warning (VW) squadrons and Weather Reconnaissance (VW) squadrons
[edit]From its creation in 1952 until 1971 the VW designation designated "Air Early Warning Squadron", "Airborne Early Warning Squadron", or "Fleet Early Warning Squadron". By 1961 the VW squadrons which were still in existence were transitioned to destructive weather early warning or weather reconnaissance as a primary mission while retaining airborne early warning as a secondary role. In 1955 and 1956 six new VW squadrons were established to operate as early warning squadrons in the Atlantic and Pacific Barriers which were seaward extensions of the nation's Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line. These "barrier" VW squadrons did not operate as weather reconnaissance squadrons and they were all disestablished by 1965. In 1967 one of the two remaining VW squadrons was renamed a "Weather Reconnaissance Squadron" (while retaining the VW designation) while the other retained the "Airborne Early Warning" name even though its primary role was also weather reconnaissance. In 1971 that squadron was disestablished and thereafter until the single remaining VW squadron was disestablished in 1975 the VW designation designated solely "Weather Reconnaissance Squadron". In 1975 the VW designation cease being used.[197]
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[ay] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VW-1 | Typhoon Trackers | PB-1W PO-1W/WV-1 WV-2/EC-121K R7V-1/C-121J WV-3/WC-121N |
VW-1: 18 Jun 1952[198]-Jul 1971 | VW-1 | July 1971[199] | Established as one of the first two Airborne Early Warning (VW) squadrons. In July 1961 the squadron's primary mission was changed to weather reconnaissance while retaining airborne early warning as a secondary task and it began operations as a typhoon early warning squadron known as the "Typhoon Trackers"[200][201] | |
VW-2 | PO-1W/WV-1[202] WV-2 |
[203] VP-11F: 1 Jul 1936-1 Oct 1937 VP-11(1st): 1 Oct 1937-1 Jul 1939 VP-54(1st): 1 Jul 1939-1 Jul 1941 VP-51(2nd): 1 Jul 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-101: 1 Mar 1943-1 Oct 1944 VPB-101: 1 Oct 1944-15 May 1946 VX-4(1st): 15 May 1946-18 Jun 1952 (same sqdn listed in VX section) VW-2: 18 Jun 1952-1 Jul 1961 |
VW-2 | 1 July 1961 | Redesignated as one of the first two Airborne Early Warning (VW) squadrons[204] | ||
VW-3 | P4Y-2S P2V-5JF WV-3 WV-2 |
VJ-1: 19 Mar 1952-Sep 1953 (same sqdn listed in VJ(2nd) section) VW-3: Sep 1953-Jun 1960[205] |
VW-3 | June 1960[206] | Established as "Weather Squadron ONE" (VJ-1) and redesignated "Airborne Early Warning Squadron THREE" (VW-3) in 1953. Pacific Fleet Early Warning and Typhoon Hunting squadron. | ||
VW-4 | Hurricane Hunters | [207] P2V-3W PO-1W/WV-1 P2V-5JF WV-3/WC-121N WP-3A |
VJ-2: 1952-1953 (same sqdn liste in VJ(2nd) section) VW-4: 1953-Apr 1975 |
VW-4 | April 1975[208] | Established as "Weather Squadron TWO" (VJ-2) and redesignated Airborne Early Warning Squadron FOUR in 1953. Operated as a hurricane early warning squadron known as the "Hurricane Hunters". Also tracked Mercury launches and provided other support to NASA.[209] Redesignated "Weather Reconnaissance Squadron FOUR" (VW-4) on 1 March 1967 to more accurately describe the primary mission of the squadron.[210] | |
VW-11 | WV-2/EC-121K | VW-11: Aug 1955[211]-7 Oct 1965 | VW-11 | 7 October 1965[212] | Established as the first squadron to operate as part of the "Atlantic Barrier", a seaward extension of the nation's Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line. Disestablished with the end of the Atlantic Barrier mission. | ||
VW-12 | WV-2 | VW-12: 7 Jul 1956[213]-1 Feb 1960 | VW-12 merged into AEWBARRONPAC |
1 February 1960[214] | Established as the first squadron to operate as part of the "Pacific Barrier", a seaward extension of the nation's Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line. On 1 Feb 1960 Airborne Early Warning Wing Pacific, VW-12, VW-14 and Airborne Barrier Service Squadron-2 (the wing's aircraft maintenance organization)[215] were merged into a single squadron designated AEW Barrier Squadron Pacific (AEWBARRONPAC)[216] which continued in existence until 30 April 1965.[217] | ||
VW-13 (first use) |
WV-2 | VW-13(1st): Sep 1955[218]-15 Sep 1957 | VW-13(1st) | 15 September 1957[219] | Established to operate as part of the "Atlantic Barrier", a seaward extension of the nation's Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line. Disestablished due to budgetary limitations.[220] | ||
VW-13 (second use) |
WV-2/EC-121K | VW-13(2nd): Jun 1958[221]-1965 | VW-13(2nd) | 1965 | Established to operate as part of the "Atlantic Barrier", a seaward extension of the nation's Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line. Adopted name and insignia of VW-13 which was disestablished a year earlier. Also collected data on ice distribution for Naval Oceanographic Office[222] | ||
VW-14 | WV-2 | VW-14: 1956-1 Feb 1960 | VW-14 merged into AEWBARRONPAC |
1 Feb 1960[223] | Established as part of the "Pacific Barrier", a seaward extension of the nation's Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line. On 1 Feb 1960 Airborne Early Warning Wing Pacific, VW-12, VW-14 and Airborne Barrier Service Squadron-2 (the wing's aircraft maintenance organization)[224] were merged into a single squadron designated AEW Barrier Squadron Pacific (AEWBARRONPAC)[225] which continued in existence until 30 April 1965.[226] | ||
VW-15 | WV-2 | VW-15: Oct 1955[227]-Apr 1961 | VW-15 | April 1961[228] | Established to operate as part of the "Atlantic Barrier", a seaward extension of the nation's Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line | ||
VW-16 | WV-2 | VW-16: 1956-1 Oct 1957 | VW-16 | 1 October 1957 | Established as part of the "Pacific Barrier", a seaward extension of the nation's Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line. Disestablished due to budgetary limitations[229] before the barrier became fully operational in July 1958 |
Disestablished Experimental (VX) squadrons (first use of the VX designation: 1927 to 1943)
[edit]Disestablished and Deactivated Experimental and Development (VX) squadrons (second use of the VX designation: 1946 to present)
[edit]The VX designation was resurrected in 1946 when four "Experimental and Development" squadrons (VX-1 (still exists today), 2, 3 and 4)[230] were established to develop and evaluate new equipment and methods. From 1946 to 1968 the designation was variously "Experimental and Development" squadron, "Operational Development" squadron, "Air Operational Development" squadron and "Air Development" squadron. In 1969 the designation changed to "Air Test and Evaluation" and it remains as such today.[231]
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[az] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates | Disestablished/ Deactivated as (or current designation) |
Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VX-2 | Pilotless aircraft and guided missiles | VX-2: 1946-?? | VX-2 Disestablished |
unknown | Established in 1946 to test and evaluate pilotless aircraft, guided missiles and general electronics. Also provided drone support to gunnery projects and the atomic bomb test program[232] | ||
VX-3 (first use) |
HNS-1 HOS-1 HO3S-1 HTL-1 HRP-1[233] |
VX-3(1st): 1 Jul 1946-1 Apr 1948 | VX-3(1st) Disestablished |
1 April 1948 | Though the squadron was designated "VX-3" it was a helicopter squadron. It was the first U.S. Navy helicopter squadron which developed the helicopter as an operational asset. | ||
VX-3 (second use) |
F6U Pirate AJ Savage F9F Cougar F8U Crusader |
VX-3(2nd): 20 Nov 1948-1 Mar 1960 | VX-3 (2nd) Disestablished |
1 March 1960 | Squadron was formed by merging VF-1L and VA-1L. Test and evaluation of high performance jet aircraft. Used tailcode XC then JC from 1957[234] | ||
VX-4 (first use) |
PB-1W[235] | VX-4(1st): 1946-1951 | VX-4 (1st) Disestablished |
1951 | Established in 1946 to evaluate and develop Airborne Early Warning equipment and procedures | ||
VX-4 (second use) |
Evaluators | F7U F3D/F-10 FJ A4D/A-4 F-3H/F-3 F8U/F-8 F4H/F-4 F-14 F/A-18 |
VX-4(2nd): 1952-30 Sep 1994 | VX-4 (2nd) Disestablished |
30 September 1994 | Established at NAS Point Mugu. Aircraft and personnel reassigned to VX-9 upon disestablishement | |
VX-5 | Vampires | AD/A-1 A2J FJ-4 A4D/A-4 F4H/F-4 A-6 A-7 AH-1 C-1 EA-6B F-18 AV-8B[236] |
VX-5: 18 Jun 1951-Sep 1994[237] VX-9: Sep 1994-present |
VX-9 | Not applicable, still active | ||
VX-6 | Puckered Penguins | P2V R7D LC-117 LC-130 HO4S HUS-1L/LH-34D |
VX-6: 17 Jan 1955-1 Jan 1969 VXE-6: 1 Jan 1969-present (inactive 27 Mar 1999-present) (same sqdn listed in VXE/VXN section) |
VXE-6 Deactivated |
27 March 1999 | Supported Antarctic scientific research | |
VX-8 | Blue Eagles | NC-121J,K | AEWTULANT became OASU*: 1 Jul 1965 OASU: 1 Jul 1965-1 Jul 1967 VX-8: 1 Jul 1967-1 Jan 1969[238][239] VXN-8: 1 Jan 1969-1993 (same sqdn listed VXE/VXN section) |
VXN-8 Disestablished |
1993 | *(Oceanographic Air Survey Unit) Supported oceanographic research. Also operated airborne psychological operations radio and TV broadcast platforms during the Vietnam war |
Disestablished and Deactivated Antarctic Development (VXE) and Oceanographic Development (VXN) squadrons
[edit]The VXE and VXN designations were created in 1969 to designate two specialized VX squadrons which were supporting Antarctic and Oceanographic scientific research. The VXN designation was discontinued in 1993 with the disestablishment of VXN-8 and the VXE designation was discontinued in active use with the deactivation of VXE-6, though it continues to designate the inactive squadron.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[ba] | Establishment and Redesignation Dates | Disestablished/ Deactivated as (or current designation) |
Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VXE-6 | Puckered Penguins | LC-130 UH-1 |
VX-6: 17 Jan 1955-1 Jan 1969 (same sqdn listed in VX section) VXE-6: 1 Jan 1969-present (inactive 27 Mar 1999-present) |
VXE-6 Deactivated |
27 March 1999 | Supported Antarctic scientific research | |
VXN-8 | Blue Eagles | NC-121J,K RP-3A |
AEWTULANT became OASU*: 1 Jul 1965 OASU: 1 Jul 1965-1 Jul 1967 VX-8: 1 Jul 1967-1 Jan 1969 (same sqdn listed VX section) VXN-8: 1 Jan 1969-1993[240][241] |
VXN-8 Disestablished |
1993 | *(Oceanographic Air Survey Unit) Supported oceanographic research. Also operated psychological operations radio and TV broadcast aircraft during the Vietnam war |
Disestablished or Deactivated Helicopter (H) squadrons and designations no longer in use
[edit]The Navy's first Helicopter Squadron was established in 1946 and was designated VX-3 (the first use of the designation). The "V" as the first letter of the squadron's designation followed the established system of designating heavier than air aircraft squadrons with a "V". The mission of VX-3 was to develop the helicopter as an operational aircraft. In 1948 when the Navy established its first two operational helicopter squadrons it designated them as "Helicopter Utility" squadrons and departed from the established system of "V" for heavier then air and "Z" for lighter than air squadrons creating a third designation of "H" for helicopter squadrons. From that time onward "V" has designated fixed wing squadrons and "H" rotary wing squadrons.
Disestablished and Deactivated Helicopter Light Attack (HAL) squadrons
[edit]The "Light Attack" (HAL) designation was created in 1967 when HC-1's attack helicopter detachment was established as a separate squadron. It was disestablished with the end of U. S. involvement in the Vietnam war but in 1976 two Navy Reserve Light Attack Squadrons were established.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bb] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates [242] | Disestablished/ Deactivated as (or current designation) |
Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HAL-3 | Seawolves | UH-1B UH-1C UH-1L UH-1M HH-1K |
HAL-3: 1 April 1967-26 Jan 1972 | HAL-3 Disestablished |
25 January 1972 | "Split out" of HC-1 on 1 Apr 1967. Light Attack Squadron, operated during Vietnam War | |
HAL-4 | Redwolves | HH-1K | HAL-4: 1 Jul 1976-Oct 1989 HCS-4: Oct 1989-Oct 2006 (same squadron listed in HCS section) HSC-84: Oct 2006-present (same squadron listed in HSC section) (inactive 31 Mar 2016-present) |
HSC-84 Deactivated |
31 March 2016 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron | |
HAL-5 | Blue Hawks | HH-1K | HAL-5: 1 Mar 1977-Oct 1989 HCS-5: Oct 1989-present (same squadron listed in HCS section) (inactive 31 Dec 2006-present) |
HCS-5 Deactivated |
31 December 2006 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron |
Disestablished and Deactivated Helicopter Combat Support (HC) squadrons and HC designations no longer in use
[edit]The "Combat Support" designation (HC) was created in July 1965 when the three existing "Utility" squadrons (HU-1, HU-2 and HU-4) were redesignated "Combat Support" squadrons.[243] The HC designation was used to designate squadrons who's primary function was either logistics or the provision of utility services with two notable exceptions; HC-7 and HC-9 were Combat Search and Rescue squadrons. In April 2005 all existing HC squadrons but one were redesignated Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) squadrons and the single remaining HC squadron (the second squadron to be designated HC-4) was deactivated on 28 September 2007. Since 28 September 2007 the HC designation exists only as the designation for a single inactive squadron.
HC squadrons were numbered sequentially beginning with HC-1 with odd numbers given to Pacific Fleet squadrons and even numbers to Atlantic Fleet squadrons. The jump from HC-11 to HC-16 occurred because HC-16 was originally established by the Naval Air Training Command as HCT-16 to provide Plane Guard services aboard the Naval Air Training Command's training Aircraft Carrier USS Lexington (AVT-16). It was redesignated HC-16 when it was administratively transferred from the Naval Air Training Command to Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic Fleet in 1977. HC-85 was a redesignation of the Navy Reserve's HS-85 and it kept its designation number through the redesignation.
The table below does not list disestablished squadrons; it is a list of squadron designations which are no longer in use. Some of the squadron designations in the table belonged to squadrons which have been disestablished, some are former designations of HSC squadrons which are still active, and one is a designation of a currently inactive squadron.
Note: The parenthetical (1st), (2nd), (3rd) etc... appended to some designations in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bc] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[244] | Disestablished/ Deactivated as (or current designation) |
Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HC-1 | Fleet Angels | HH-3A RH-3A UH-1B UH-46A,D UH-2A,B,C HH-2C SH-3A,G,D,H CH-53E |
HU-1: 1 Apr 1948-4 Jul 1965 (same sqdn listed in HU section) HC-1: 4 Jul 1965-29 Apr 1994 |
HC-1 Disestablished |
29 April 1994 | HC-1 "split out" HAL-3 on 1 Apr 1967 and HC-3, HC-5(1st) and HC-7 on 1 Sep 1967. H-3 FRS 1989-1993 | |
HC-2 (first use) |
Fleet Angels | SH-34J UH-2A,C HH-2D SH-3G |
HU-2: 1 Apr 1948-4 Jul 1965 (same sqdn listed in HU section) HC-2(1st): 4 Jul 1965-30 Sep 1977 |
HC-2(1st) Disestablished |
30 September 1977 | ||
HC-2 (second use) |
(1987) (1994) |
Circuit Riders (1987), Fleet Angels (1994) |
CH-53E MH-53E VH-3A SH-3G UH-3H |
HC-2(2nd): 1 Apr 1987-1 Jan 2006 HSC-2: 1 Jan 2006-present |
HSC-2 | Not applicable, still active | Adopted the name "Fleet Angels" in 1994 when HC-1 was disestablished. Both HU-1 and HU-2 were nicknamed "Fleet Angels" and both carried the name through their redesignations to HC-1 and HC-2(1st). Adopted the insignia of HC-2(1st) in 1994 at the same time the nickname was adopted. H-3 FRS 1997-2006 |
HC-3 |
Packrats | H-46 MH-60S |
HC-3: 1 Sep 1967-1 Apr 2005 HSC-3: 1 Apr 2005-present |
HSC-3 | Not applicable, still active | "Split out" of HC-1 on 1 Sep 1967. H-46 FRS 1982-2002, MH-60S FRS from 2002 | |
HC-4 (first use) |
Invaders | HTL/TH-13 HUL/UH-13 HRS/CH-19 HSS/SH-34 HUS/UH-34 UH-46A UH-2B HH-2D SH-2D |
HU-4: 1 July 1960-4 July 1965 (same sqdn listed in HU section) HC-4(1st): 4 July 1965-Mar 1972 HSL-30: Mar 1972-30 Sep 1993 (same sqdn listed in HSL section) |
HSL-30 Disestablished |
30 September 1993 | ||
HC-4 (second use) |
Black Stallions | CH-53E MH-53E |
HC-4(2nd): 6 May 1983-present (inactive 30 Sep 2007-present) |
HC-4 (2nd) Deactivated |
30 September 2007 | Provided Vertical Onboard Delivery (VOD) services to Carrier Battle Groups operating in the Mediterranean Sea | |
HC-5 (first use) |
Arch Angeles | CH-19E UH-2 SH-3A RH-3A SH-34J HH-2D SH-2D |
HC-5(1st): 1 Sep 1967-Mar 1972 HSL-31: Mar 1972-31 July 1992 (same sqdn listed in HSL section) |
HSL-31 Disestablished |
31 July 1992 | "Split out" of HC-1 on 1 Sep 1967 | |
HC-5 (second use) |
Providers | H-46 MH-60S |
HC-5(2nd): 3 Feb 1984-21 Apr 2005 HSC-25: 21 Apr 2005-present |
HSC-25 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HC-6 | Chargers | UH-43C UH-34D UH-2B RH-3A VH-3A RH-53A H-46 MH-60S |
HC-6: 1 Sep 1967-Apr 2005 HSC-26: Apr 2005-present |
HSC-26 | Not applicable, still active | "Split out" of HC-4 on 1 Sep 1967 | |
HC-7 | Seadevils | UH-2 SH-3A RH-3A UH-34D UH-46A HH-2C HH-3A |
HC-7: 1 Sep 1967-30 Jun 1975 | HC-7 Deactivated |
30 June 1975 | "Split out" of HC-1 on 1 Sep 1967. Vietnam War Combat Search and Rescue Squadron | |
HC-8 | Dragon Whales | H-46 MH-60S |
HC-8: 3 Dec 1984-Apr 2005 HSC-28: Apr 2005-present |
HSC-28 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HC-9 | Black Cats, Protectors |
HH-3A | HC-9: 1 Aug 1975-31 Jul 1990 | HC-9 Disestablished |
31 July 1990 | Combat Search and Rescue Squadron United States Navy Reserve Squadron | |
HC-11 | Gunbearers | UH-3H H-46 MH-60S |
HC-11: 1 Oct 1977-Apr 2005 HSC-21: Apr 2005-present |
HSC-21 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HC-16 | Bullfrogs | HH-46D UH-1N SH-3D |
HCT-16: 1 Nov 1974-May 1977 HC-16: May 1977-1 Apr 1994 |
HC-16 Disestablished |
1 April 1994 | Plane Guard squadron for Naval Air Training Command training aircraft carrier, H-46 FRS 1977-1982, HH-1N FRS 1979-1994 | |
HC-85 | Golden Gators | UH-3H MH-60S |
HS-85: 1 Jul 1970-Oct 1994 (same sqdn listed in HS section) HC-85: Oct 1994-Feb 2006 HSC-85: Feb 2006-present |
HSC-85 | Not applicable, still active | United States Navy Reserve Squadron |
Deactivated Helicopter Combat Support (Special) (HCS) squadrons
[edit]The HCS designation was created in 1989 when the Navy put the HH-60H Seahawk in service with the Navy Reserve. It combined the light attack function of the Reserve's two HAL squadrons with the Reserve's only Combat Search and Rescue squadron (HC-9), redesignated the two USNR HAL squadrons to HCS and disestablished HC-9. The HCS designation remained in active use until 2006 when one of the squadrons was deactivated and the other was redesignated to a Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) squadron (and was subsequently also deactivated).
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bd] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates [245] | Deactivated as (or current designation) |
Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HCS-4 | Redwolves | HH-60H | HAL-4: 1 Jul 1976-Oct 1989 (same squadron listed in HAL section) HCS-4: Oct 1989-Oct 2006 HSC-84: Oct 2006-present (same squadron listed in HSC section) (inactive 31 Mar 2016-present) |
HSC-84 Deactivated |
31 March 2016 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron | |
HCS-5 | Firehawks | HH-60H | HAL-5: 1 Mar 1977-Oct 1989 (same squadron listed in HAL section) HCS-5: Oct 1989-present (inactive 31 Dec 2006-present) |
HCS-5 Deactivated |
31 December 2006 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. (The currently active Navy Reserve squadron HSC-85 adopted the Firehawks insignia and nickname in 2011) |
Disestablished Helicopter Combat Support (Training) (HCT) squadron
[edit]HCT-16 was established by the Naval Air Training Command to provide Plane Guard services aboard the Naval Air Training Command's training Aircraft Carrier USS Lexington (AVT-16) and Pensacola area search and rescue services in support of training command activities. It was redesignated HC-16 when it was administratively transferred from the Naval Air Training Command to Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic Fleet in 1977.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[be] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[246] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HCT-16 | Bullfrogs | UH-2C HH-46A |
HCT-16: 1 Nov 1974-May 1977 HC-16: May 1977-1 Apr 1994 |
HC-16 Disestablished |
1 April 1994 | "Training Support" squadron, provided SAR and Plane Guard services for Naval Air Training Command operations in the Pensacola area |
Disestablished Helicopter Mine Countermeasure (HM) squadrons
[edit]The HM designation was established in 1971 to designate "Mine Countermeasures" squadrons. It remains in use to the present day.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bf] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HM-12 (first use) |
Sea Dragons | RH-53A RH-53D CH-53E MH-53E |
HM-12(1st): 1 Apr 1971-30 Sep 1994 | 30 September 1994 | "Split out" of HC-6 on 1 Apr 1971. FRS | |
HM-16 | Seahawks | RH-53D | HM-16: 27 Oct 1978-2 Jan 1987 | 2 January 1987 | "Split out" of HM-12(1st) on 27 Oct 1978 | |
HM-18 | Norsemen | RH-53D MH-53E |
HM-18: 1 Oct 1986-4 Mar 1995 | 4 March 1995 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Personnel and aircraft were integrated into HM-14 upon disestablishment | |
HM-19 | Golden Bears | RH-53D MH-53E |
HM-19: 9 Jan 1989-5 Nov 1994 | 5 November 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Personnel and aircraft were integrated into HM-15 upon disestablishment |
Disestablished and Deactivated Helicopter Anti-submarine (HS) squadrons and HS designations no longer in use
[edit]The HS designation was created in 1951 to designate Anti-Submarine squadrons[247] and was in use until the last active HS squadron was redesignated to Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) squadron on 1 June 2016. The designation has not been in active use since.
HS designations were numbered sequentially beginning with HS-1 without regard to Carrier Air Group (later Carrier Air Wing) assignment, though; odd numbered designations were given to Atlantic Fleet squadrons and even numbered designations to Pacific Fleet squadrons (the opposite of the HC designation scheme). USNR HS designations were numbered in accordance with the Reserve Carrier Air Antisubmarine Groups (CVSGR) for which they were established for assignment: HS-74 and HS-75 to CVSGR-70, and HS-84 and HS-85 to CVSGR-80.
The table below does not list disestablished squadrons; it is a list of squadron designations which are no longer in use. Some of the squadron designations in the table belonged to squadrons which have been disestablished but some are former designations of HSC squadrons which are still active. There are currently two inactive HS squadrons, HS-75 which was deactivated in 2007 and HS-10 which was deactivated in 2012.
Note: The parenthetical (1st), (2nd), (3rd) etc... appended to some designations in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bg] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates [248] | Disestablished/ Deactivated as (or current designation) |
Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HS-1 | Seahorses | HUP HTL TBM HRS HO4S HSS-1 SNB HSS-1N/SH-34J HSS-2/SH-3A SH-3D,G,H VH-3A HH-3A SH-60F |
HS-1: 3 Oct 1951-30 Jun 1997 | HS-1 Disestablished |
30 June 1997 | Atlantic Fleet FRS | |
HS-2 | Golden Falcons | HO4S HSS-1,1N HSS-2/SH-3A SH-3D,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-2: 7 Mar 1952-6 Aug 2009 HSC-12: 6 Aug 2009-present |
HSC-12 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HS-3 | Tridents | HUP HO4S HSS-1,1N HSS-2/SH-3A SH-3D,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-3: 18 Jun 1952-1 Jun 2009 HSC-9: 1 Jun 2009-present |
HSC-9 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HS-4 | Black Knights | HO4S HSS-1 HSS-1N/SH-34J SH-3A,D,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-4: 30 Jun 1952-29 Mar 2012 HSC-4: 29 Mar 2012-present |
HSC-4 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HS-5 | Night Dippers | HSS-1N/SH-34J SH-3A,D,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-5: 3 Jan 1956-24 Jan 2014 HSC-5: 24 Jan 2014-present |
HSC-5 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HS-6 | Indians | HO4S HSS-1N HSS-2/SH-3A SH-3D,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-6: 1 Jun 1956-8 Jul 2011 HSC-6: 8 Jul 2011-present |
HSC-6 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HS-7 (first use) |
Big Dippers | HSS-1 HSS-1N/SH-34J |
HS-7(1st): 2 Apr 1956-31 May 1966 | HS-7 (1st) Disestablished |
31 May 1966 | ||
HS-7 (second use) |
(1969) (1995) |
Big Dippers (1969) Shamrocks (1973) Dusty Dogs (1995) |
SH-3D,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-7(2nd): 15 Dec 1969-15 Apr 2011 HSC-7: 15 Apr 2011-present |
HSC-7 | Not applicable, still active | Adopted name and insignia from disestablished HS-7(1st) |
HS-8 (first use) |
Eightballers | HSS-1N/SH-34J SH-3A |
HS-8 (1st): 1 Jun 1956-31 Dec 1968 | HS-8 (1st) Disestablished |
31 December 1968 | ||
HS-8 (second use) |
Eightballers | SH-3D,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-8 (2nd): 1 Nov 1969-28 Sep 2007 HSC-8: 28 Sep 2007-present |
HSC-8 | Not applicable, still active | Adopted name and insignia from disestablished HS-8(1st) | |
HS-9 (first use) |
Sea Griffins | HSS-1N/SH-34J SH-3A |
HS-9(1st): 1 June 1956- 1 Oct 1968 | HS-9 (1st) Disestabished |
1 October 1968 | ||
HS-9 (second use) |
Sea Griffins | SH-3H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-9(2nd): 4 Jun 1976-30 Apr 1993 | HS-9 (2nd) Disestablished |
30 April 1993 | Adopted name and insignia from disestablished HS-9(1st) | |
HS-10 | Task Masters, War Hawks (1990s) |
HSS-1N HSS-2/SH-3A SH-3D,G,H SH-60F |
HS-10: 1 July 1960-present (inactive 12 Jul 2012-present) |
HS-10 Deactivated |
12 July 2012 | Pacific Fleet FRS | |
HS-11 | Dragon Slayers | HSS-1,1N SH-3,D,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-11: 27 Jun 1957-1 Jun 2016 HSC-11: 1 Jun 2016-present |
HSC-11 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HS-12 | Wyverns | SH-3H | HS-12: 15 Jul 1977-30 Nov 1994 | HS-12 Disestablished |
30 November 1994 | ||
HS-13 | Sub Choppers | HSS-1 HSS-1N/SH-34J |
HS-13: 25 Sep 1961- 1 Oct 1962 | HS-13 Disestablished |
1 October 1962 | ||
HS-14 | Chargers | SH-3H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-14: 10 Jul 1984-Jul 2013 HSC-14: Jul 2013-present |
HSC-14 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HS-15 | Red Lions | SH-3G,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-15: 29 October 1971-Nov 2102 HSC-15: Nov 2012-present (inactive 31 Mar 2017-present) (same sqdn listed in HSC section) |
HSC-15 Deactivated |
31 March 2017 | ||
HS-16 | Nighthawks | SH-3H | HS-16: 10 March 1987-1 Jun 1988 | HS-16 Disestablished |
1 June 1988 | Was established as part of the newly formed Carrier Air Wing 10 which was subsequently disestablished on 30 Sep 1988 due to fiscal constraints. | |
HS-17 | Neptune's Raiders | SH-3H | HS-17: 4 April 1984-30 Jun 1991 | HS-17 Disestablished |
30 June 1991 | ||
HS-74 | Minutemen | SH-3A,D | HS-74: 1 June 1970-Jan 1985 HSL-74: Jan 1985-1 Apr 1994 (same sqdn listed in HSL section) |
HSL-74 Disestablished |
1 April 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-70 | |
HS-75 | Emerald Knights | SH-3A,D,H SH-60F HH-60H |
HS-75: 1 June 1970-present (inactive 1 Apr 2007-present) |
HS-75 Deactivated |
1 April 2007 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-70 | |
HS-84 | Thunderbolts | SH-3A,D | HS-84: 1 July 1970-Apr 1984 HSL-84: Apr 1984-present) (inactive 30 Jun 2001-present) (same sqdn listed in HSL section) |
HSL-84 Deactivated |
30 Jun 2001 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-80 | |
HS-85 | Golden Gators | SH-3A,D,H | HS-85: 1 Jul 1970-Oct 1994 HC-85: Oct 1994-Feb 2006 (same sqdn listed in HC section) HSC-85: Feb 2006-present |
HSC-85 | Not applicable, still active | United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of CVSGR-80 |
Deactivated Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) squadrons
[edit]The "Sea Combat" (HSC) designation was instituted April 2005 when the "Combat Support" (HC) squadrons conducting at sea logistics had completed their transitions from the H-46 to the multi-mission MH-60S. Beginning in 2007 the "Helicopter Anti-submarine" (HS) squadrons began transitioning to the MH-60S as well relinquishing the anti-submarine role aboard the aircraft carrier to the new "Maritime Strike" (HSM) squadrons. The HSC designation identifies squadrons with the primary functions of Naval Special Warfare support, Anti-surface Warfare, Combat Search and Rescue, and Vertical Replenishment.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bh] | Establishment and Redesignation Dates | Deactivated as | Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HSC-15 | Red Lions | MH-60S | HS-15: 29 October 1971-Nov 2102 (same sqdn listed in HS section) HSC-15: Nov 2012-present (inactive 31 Mar 2017-present) |
HSC-15 Deactivated |
31 March 2017 | ||
HSC-84 | Redwolves | HH-60H | HAL-4: 1 Jul 1976-Oct 1989 (same squadron listed in HAL section) HCS-4: Oct 1989-Oct 2006 (same squadron listed in HCS section) HSC-84: Oct 2006-present (inactive 31 Mar 2016-present) |
HSC-84 Deactivated |
31 March 2016 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron Operated in a Naval Special Warfare Support role |
Disestablished and Deactivated Helicopter Anti-submarine (Light) (HSL) squadrons and HSL designations no longer in use
[edit]The "Anti-submarine Squadron (Light)" (HSL) designation was established in 1972 to designate Anti-submarine squadrons which operated the "light" SH-2 helicopter (as compared to the HS squadrons' much larger SH-3 helicopters) in detachments aboard surface force ships as a part of the "Light Airborne Multipurpose System" (LAMPS Mk I) program to provide surface ships with a helicopter to extend the ship's sensor and weapons ranges. The designation was discontinued in active use in July 2015 when the last HSL squadron was redesignated a Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) squadron. The designation currently exists only attached to two inactive HSL squadrons which were deactivated in 2001.
HSL designations began with HSL-30 and squadrons were numbered sequentially with even numbers assigned to Atlantic Fleet squadrons and odd numbers to Pacific Fleet squadrons (in line with the HC designation scheme and opposite of the HS squadron numbering system). When new HSL squadrons were established to operated the new LAMPS Mk III system they were designated beginning with HSL-40 and continued the even Atlantic and odd Pacific scheme. HSL-74 and HSL-84 were redesignations of the Navy Reserve's HS-74 and HS-84 and they kept their designation numbers through the redesignation. When HSL-94 was established it was designated to fit the pattern HSL-74, 84, 94.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bi] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates [249] | Disestablished/ Deactivated as (or current designation) |
Disestablished/ Deactivated Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HSL-30 | Neptune's Horsemen | SH-2F HH-2D |
HU-4: 1 July 1960-4 July 1965 (same sqdn listed in HU/HC section) HC-4: 4 July 1965-Mar 1972 (same sqdn listed in HU/HC section) HSL-30: Mar 1972-30 Sep 1993 |
HSL-30 Disestablished |
30 September 1993 | Atlantic Fleet FRS | |
HSL-31 | Arch Angels | SH-2F HH-2D |
HC-5: 1 Sep 1967-Mar 1972 (same sqdn listed in HU/HC section) HSL-31: Mar 1972-31 July 1992 |
HSL-31 Disestablished |
31 July 1992 | Pacific Fleet FRS | |
HSL-32 | Invaders | SH-2F | HSL-32: 17 Aug 1973-31 Jan 1994 | HSL-32 Disestablished |
31 January 1994 | ||
HSL-33 | Seasnakes | SH-2F | HSL-33: 31 July 1973-29 Apr 1994 | HSL-33 Disestablished |
29 April 1994 | ||
HSL-34 | Greencheckers | SH-2F | HSL-34: 27 Sep 1974-30 Nov 1993 | HSL-34 Disestablished |
30 November 1993 | ||
HSL-35 | Magicians | SH-2F | HSL-35: 15 Jan 1974-4 Dec 1992 | HSL-35 Disestablished |
4 December 1992 | A new squadron designated HSM-35 was established on 2 May 2013 which adopted the "Magicians" name and insignia, but that squadron is not related to this one | |
HSL-36 | Lamplighters | SH-2F | HSL-36: 26 Sep 1975-30 Sep 1992 | HSL-36 Disestablished |
30 September 1992 | ||
HSL-37 | Easy Riders | SH-2F SH-60B |
HSL-37: 3 Jul 1975-Oct 2013 HSM-37: Oct 2013-present |
HSM-37 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HSL-40 | Airwolves | SH-60B | HSL-40: 4 Oct 1985-Nov 2009 HSM-40: Nov 2009-present |
HSM-40 | Not applicable, still active | Atlantic Fleet FRS | |
HSL-41 | Seahawks | SH-60B | HSL-41: 21 Jan 1983-Dec 2006 HSM-41: Dec 2006-present |
HSM-41 | Not applicable, still active | Pacific Fleet FRS | |
HSL-42 | Proud Warriors | SH-60B | HSL-42: 5 Oct 1984-15 Jan 2013 HSM-72: 15 Jan 2013-present |
HSM-72 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HSL-43 | Battle Cats | SH-60B | HSL-43: 5 Oct 1984-Feb 2012 HSM-73: Feb 2012-present |
HSM-73 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HSL-44 | Swamp Foxes | SH-60B | HSL-44: 21 Aug 1986-9 Jun 2011 HSM-74: 9 Jun 2011-present |
HSM-74 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HSL-45 | Wolfpack | SH-60B | HSL-45: 3 Oct 1986-Feb 2011 HSM-75: Feb 2011-present |
HSM-75 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HSL-46 | Grandmasters | SH-60B | HSL-46: 7 Apr 1988-Mar 2012 HSM-46: Mar 2012-present |
HSM-46 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HSL-47 | Saberhawks | SH-60B | HSL-47: 25 Sep 1987-2 Apr 2009 HSM-77: 2 Apr 2009-present |
HSM-77 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HSL-48 | Vipers | SH-60B | HSL-48: 7 Sep 1989-May 2014 HSM-48: May 2014-present |
HSM-48 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HSL-49 | Scorpions | SH-60B | HSL-49: 23 Mar 1990-1 Apr 2015 HSM-49: 1 Apr 2015-present |
HSM-49 | Not applicable, still active | ||
HSL-51 | Warlords | UH-3H SH-60B |
HSL-51: 1 Oct 1991-7 Mar 2013 HSM-51: 7 Mar 2013-present |
HSM-51 | Not applicable, still active | In addition to the SH-60B the squadron operated the UH-3H in a VIP transport detachment from 1991-2006 in support of Commander, Seventh Fleet | |
HSL-60 | Jaguars | SH-60B | HSL-60: 1 Apr 2001-Jul 2015 HSM-60: Jul 2015-present |
HSM-60 | Not applicable, still active | United States Navy Reserve Squadron | |
HSL-74 | Demon Elves | SH-2F | HS-74: 1 June 1970-Jan 1985 (same sqdn listed in HS section) HSL-74: Jan 1985-1 Apr 1994 |
HSL-74 Disestablished |
1 April 1994 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron | |
HSL-84 | Thunderbolts | SH-2F SH-2G |
HS-84: 1 July 1970-Apr 1984 (same sqdn listed in HS section) HSL-84: Apr 1984-present) (inactive 30 Jun 2001-present) |
HSL-84 Deactivated |
30 Jun 2001 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron | |
HSL-94 | Titans | SH-2F SH-2G |
HSL-94: 1 Oct 1985-present (inactive 1 Apr 2001-present) |
HSL-94 Deactivated |
1 April 2001 | United States Navy Reserve Squadron |
Disestablished Helicopter Utility (HU) squadrons
[edit]The HU designation was created in 1948 with the establishment of the Navy's first two operational helicopter squadrons: "Utility" squadrons One and Two (HU-1 and HU-2). The creation of the HU designation marked a departure from the established designation system using "V" as the first letter for squadrons of heavier than air aircraft and "Z" for squadrons of lighter than air aircraft adding the letter "H" to the squadron designation scheme to identify squadrons operating heavier than air rotary wing aircraft. In July 1965 the three HU squadrons were redesignated to "Combat Support" (HC) squadrons.[250]
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bj] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates[251] | Disestablished as | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HU-1 | Pacific Fleet Angels | HO3S HTL HUL HUK HUP HO4S/CH-19 HSS/SH-34 HUS/CH-34 UH-2A,B UH-46A RH-3A |
HU-1: 1 Apr 1948-4 Jul 1965 HC-1: 4 Jul 1965-29 Apr 1994 (same sqdn listed in HC section) |
HC-1 Disestablished |
29 April 1994 | ||
HU-2 | Atlantic Fleet Angels | HO3S HTL HRP HO4S HTK HUL HUP/UH-25C HSS/SH-34 UH-2A |
HU-2: 1 Apr 1948-4 Jul 1965 HC-2(1st): 4 Jul 1965-30 Sep 1977 (same sqdn listed in HC section) |
HC-2(1st) Disestablished |
30 September 1977 | ||
HU-4 | Invaders | HTL/TH-13 HUL/UH-13 HRS/CH-19 HSS/SH-34 HUS/UH-34 |
HU-4: 1 July 1960-4 July 1965 HC-4: 4 July 1965-Mar 1972 (same sqdn listed in HC section) HSL-30: Mar 1972-30 Sep 1993 (same sqdn listed in HSL section) |
HSL-30 Disestablished |
30 September 1993 | "Split out" of HU-2 on 1 Jul 1960 |
Disestablished Unmanned Helicopter Reconnaissance (HUQ) squadron
[edit]Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bk] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HUQ-1 | MQ-8 | HUQ-1: 20 Sep 2012-Mar 2014 | March 2014 | "Unmanned Helicopter Reconnaissance Squadron" Established to function as a FRS to train the operators of Vertical Takeoff Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (VTUAV) systems who would then report to HSC and HSM squadrons or other units operating them.[252][253] Was transitioned into a MQ-8 maintenance organization in March 2014[254] |
Disestablished Helicopter Development (VX) squadron
[edit]The Navy's first Helicopter Squadron was established in 1946 and was designated VX-3 (the first use of the designation). The "V" as the first letter of the squadron's designation followed the established system of designating heavier than air aircraft squadrons with a "V". The mission of VX-3 was to develop the helicopter as an operational aircraft. In 1948 when the Navy established its first two operational helicopter squadrons it designated them as "Helicopter Utility" squadrons and departed from the established system of "V" for heavier then air and "Z" for lighter than air squadrons creating a third designation of "H" for helicopter squadrons. From that time onward "V" has designated fixed wing squadrons and "H" rotary wing squadrons.
Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[bl] | Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates | Disestablished Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VX-3 (first use) |
HNS-1 HOS-1 HO3S-1 HTL-1 HRP-1[255] |
VX-3(1st): 1 Jul 1946-1 Apr 1948 | 1 April 1948 | "Helicopter Development Squadron" Aircraft and personnel used to establish the first two U. S. Navy operational helicopter squadrons (HU-1 and HU-2)[234] |
Disestablished Lighter Than Air (Z) squadrons
[edit]In 1920 General Order 541 was issued identifying two overall types of aircraft and assigning them permanent letters; lighter than air types were identified by the letter Z and heavier than air types by the letter V.[256] The use of letter abbreviations for squadrons was promulgated in the "Naval Aeronautic Organization for Fiscal Year 1923" which is the first known record associating the abbreviated Aircraft Class Designations (V-heavier than air, Z-lighter than air, and letters designating role) with abbreviated squadron designations.[257] The Navy's last lighter than air squadrons were disestablished in 1961 thus ending the use of the lighter than air "Z" designation.
Disestablished Blimp Utility (ZJ) squadrons
[edit]The ZJ designation was a short lived designation in use only from 1944 to 1945.[258]
Disestablished Kite Balloon (ZK) squadrons
[edit]The ZK designation was the first lighter than air squadron designation. It was in use from 1922 to 1924.[259]
Disestablished Airship Patrol, Blimp, Airship Patrol (All Weather Anti-Submarine), Airship, or LTA Patrol (ZP) squadrons
[edit]The ZP designation was in use from 1942 to 1961 and designated variously through the period "Airship Patrol Squadron", "Blimp Squadron", "Airship Patrol Squadron (All Weather Anti-Submarine)", "Airship Squadron" or "Lighter Than Air (LTA) Patrol Squadron".[260]
Squadron Name | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Date disestablished | Based in |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ZP-12 | 1947 | NAS Lakehurst, NJ | |||
ZP-15 | 1947 | NAS Glynco, Georgia | |||
ZP-14 | 1947 | NAS Lakehurst, NJ | |||
ZP-15 | 1947 | NAS Weeksville, NC | |||
ZP-11 | 1947 | NAS South Weymouth, MA | |||
ZP-21 | 1947 | NAS Richmond, FL | |||
ZP-22 | 1947 | NAS Houma, LA | |||
ZP-23 | 1947 | NAS Hitchcock, TX | |||
ZP-32 | 1947 | NAS Moffett Field, CA | |||
ZP-31 | 1947 | NAS Santa Ana, CA | |||
ZP-33 | 1947 | NAS Tillamook, OR | |||
ZP-41 | 1947 | Sao Luiz, Brazil | |||
ZP-42 | 1947 | Maceió, Brazil | |||
ZP-51 | 1947 | Trinidad |
Disestablished Airship Early Warning (ZW) squadrons
[edit]The ZW designation was in use from 1956 to 1961[261] to designate squadrons operating blimps equipped with early warning radar used to fill radar gaps in the North American early-warning network between the Contiguous Barrier and the Inshore Barrier during the Cold War.
Disestablished Airship Operational Development or Airship Development (ZX) squadrons
[edit]The ZX designation was in use from 1950 to 1957.[262]
Current Squadrons
[edit]Squadron designations
[edit]Navy aircraft squadrons can be properly referred to by designation or nickname. The designations describe the squadron's mission and therefor the general type of aircraft.
- The Formal form designation (e.g., Strike Fighter Squadron EIGHT SIX) indicates the mission.
- A subset of the formal form designation is a Navy acronym format in capital letters, e.g., STKFITRON EIGHT SIX
- The abbreviated designation (e.g., VFA-86) also indicates the type and mission, as each of the letters has a meaning. In this case, "V" stands for fixed wing, "F" stands for fighter, and "A" stands for attack.
- Nickname – e.g., "Sidewinders".
A single squadron can carry a number of designations through its existence. Chief Of Naval Operations Instruction (OPNAVINST) 5030.4G governs the squadron designation system. A squadron comes into existence when it is "established". Upon establishment it receives a designation, for example Patrol Squadron ONE or "VP-1". During the life of the squadron it may be "redesignated" one or more times, the Navy's oldest currently active squadron is VFA-14 and it has been redesignated 15 times since it was established in 1919. Over the history of U. S. Naval Aviation there have been many designations which have been used multiple times (re-used) resulting in multiple unrelated squadrons bearing the same designation at different times. A full description of the history and use of aircraft squadron designations along with the rules governing the lineages of U. S. Navy aircraft squadrons can be found at List of Inactive United States Navy aircraft squadrons.[263]
Fixed Wing Squadrons
[edit]Navy fixed wing squadron designations start with the letter "V" because in 1920 with issuance of General Order 541, two overall types of aircraft were identified and assigned permanent letters; lighter than air types were identified by the letter Z and heavier than air types by the letter V.[264] The use of letter abbreviations for squadrons was promulgated in the "Naval Aeronautic Organization for Fiscal Year 1923" which is the first known record associating the abbreviated Aircraft Class Designations (V-heavier than air, Z-lighter than air, and letters designating role) with abbreviated squadron designations.[265] In 1948 the Navy established its first two operational helicopter squadrons designating them as Helicopter Utility Squadrons. It departed from the established "V" heavier than air and "Z" lighter than air system and instead gave them the designation "HU" (H-Helicopter, U-Utility). From that point on heavier than air squadrons which flew rotary wing aircraft were designated with the first letter of "H" while heavier than air squadrons flying fixed wing aircraft retained the original heaver than air "V" then associating the "V" only with fixed wing squadrons. There were two exceptions during the history of Naval Aviation that violated the rule, they were; the use of "RVAH" to denote Reconnaissance Attack Squadrons which operated the RA-5C Vigilante during the 1960s and 1970s and the use of "RVAW" from 1967 to 1983 to designate the Airborne Early Warning (VAW) Fleet Replacement Squadrons.
Electronic Attack (VAQ)
[edit]The VAQ designation was established in 1968 to designate "Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron".[266] In February 1998 the name of the designation was changed to "Electronic Attack Squadron" and all VAQ squadrons then in existence were renamed from "Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron-____" to "Electronic Attack Squadron-____".
A typical Electronic Attack Squadron consists of five Boeing EA-18G Growlers. The primary mission of the Growler is Electronic Attack (EA), also known as Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) in support of strike aircraft and ground troops by interrupting enemy electronic activity and obtaining tactical electronic intelligence within the combat area. Navy Electronic Attack squadrons carry the letters VAQ (V-fixed wing, A-attack, Q-electronic).
Most VAQ squadrons are carrier based, however a number are "expeditionary", deploying to overseas land bases. When not deployed (either on land or carrier), they are home-ported at NAS Whidbey Island, WA. The exception is VAQ-141, which is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan.[267]
Note: The parenthetical (Second use) and (2nd) appended to some designations in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation to designate a squadron and that these were the second use of that designation.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft[268] | Operational Commander [bm] | Administrative Commander [bn] | Squadron Lineage[269] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VAQ-129 | Vikings | EA-18G | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAH-10: 1 May 1961-1 Sep 1970 VAQ-129: 1 Sep 1970-present |
Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS Whidbey Island | |
VAQ-130 | Zappers | EA-18G | Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAW-13: 1 Sep 1959-1 Oct 1968 VAQ-130: 1 Oct 1968-present |
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VAQ-131 | Lancers | EA-18G | Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VP-920: 1 May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-ML-70: 15 Nov 1946-Feb 1950 VP-931: Feb 1950-4 Feb 1953 VP-57: 4 Feb 1953-3 Jul 1956 VAH-4: 3 Jul 1956-1 Nov 1968 VAQ-131: 1 Nov 1968-present |
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island USNR squadron VP-931 was activated on 2 Sep 1950 for participation in the Korean War[270] | |
VAQ-132 | Scorpions | EA-18G | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAH-2: 1 Nov 1955-1 Nov 1968 VAQ-132: 1 Nov 1968-present |
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island Expeditionary Squadron | |
VAQ-133 (Second use) |
Wizards | EA-18G | Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-133(2nd): 1 Apr 1996-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island There was an earlier squadron designated VAQ-133 also called the "Wizards" which existed from 4 Mar 1969 to Jun 1992 | |
VAQ-134 | Garudas | EA-18G | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-134: 17 Jun 1969-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island Expeditionary Squadron | |
VAQ-135 | Black Ravens | EA-18G | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-135: 15 May 1969-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island Expeditionary Squadron | |
VAQ-136 | Gauntlets | EA-18G | Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-136: 6 Apr 1973-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VAQ-137 (Second use) |
Rooks | EA-18G | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-137(2nd): 1 Oct 1996-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island There was an earlier squadron designated VAQ-137 also called the "Rooks" which existed from 14 Dec 1973 to 26 May 1994 | |
VAQ-138 | Yellowjackets | EA-18G | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-138: 27 Feb 1976-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island Expeditionary Squadron | |
VAQ-139 | Cougars | EA-18G | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-139: 1 Jul 1983-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VAQ-140 | Patriots | EA-18G | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-140: 1 Oct 1985-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VAQ-141 | Shadowhawks | EA-18G | Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-141: 1 Jul 1987-present | Forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan | |
VAQ-142 (Second use) |
Gray Wolves | EA-18G | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN | Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | VAQ-142(2nd): 1 Apr 1997-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island There was an earlier squadron designated VAQ-142 called the "Grim Watchdogs" which existed from 1 Jun 1988 to March 1991 | |
VAQ-209 | Star Warriors | EA-18G | Commander, Tactical Support Wing | Commander, Tactical Support Wing | VAQ-129: 1 Oct 1977-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Homeport NAS Whidbey Island |
Carrier Airborne Early Warning (VAW)
[edit]The VAW designation was first created in July 1948 with the establishment of VAW-1 and VAW-2 to designate "Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron".[271] It was in use for only one month as in August 1948 VAW-1 and VAW-2 were redesignated "Composite Squadron" VC-11 and VC-12. In 1948 the VAW designation was resurrected[272] when VC-11 and VC-12 were redesignated VAW-11 and VAW-12. In 1967, VAW-11 and VAW-12 which were large land based squadrons that provided detachments of Airborne Early Warning aircraft to deploying Carrier Air Wings were redesignated as wings and each of their detachments were established as separate squadrons.[273] Established from VAW-11 were RVAW-110 (a FRS), VAW-111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116 and established from VAW-12 were RVAW-120 (a FRS), VAW-121, 122, 123, 124.
Each Carrier Airborne Early Warning squadron consists of four E-2C or E-2D Hawkeyes except for the Fleet Replacement Squadron which has more. Transition to the E-2D Hawkeye is in progress and should be complete by 2025. The Hawkeye's primary mission is to provide all-weather airborne early warning, airborne battle management and command and control (C2) functions for the carrier strike group and Joint Force Commander. Additional missions include surface surveillance coordination, air interdiction, offensive and defensive counter air control, close air support coordination, time critical strike coordination, search and rescue airborne coordination and communications relay. The E-2 Hawkeye and C-2 Greyhound are built on the same airframe and have many similar characteristics. For this reason, both aircraft are trained for in the same Fleet Replacement Squadron.[274]
When not deployed, they are home-ported at either Naval Station Norfolk, VA or Naval Air Station Point Mugu, CA. The exception is VAW-125, which is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan.
Strike Fighter (VFA)
[edit]The VFA designation was created in 1980 to designate "Fighter Attack Squadron". The designation was assigned to squadrons equipped with the new F/A-18A Hornet fighter attack aircraft. In 1983 the designation was changed to "Strike Fighter Squadron"[276] and all VFA squadrons in existence at the time were renamed from "Fighter Attack Squadron-___" to "Strike Fighter Squadron-___". A Strike Fighter Squadron consists of either ten F/A-18C Hornets, twelve F/A-18E/F Super Hornets,[277] or in future, ten F-35C Lightning IIs.[278][279] Training squadrons (known as Fleet Replacement Squadrons) have many more aircraft. The Hornet and Super Hornet are all-weather aircraft used for attack and fighter missions. In fighter mode, the they are used primarily as a fighter escort and for fleet air defense; in attack mode, they are used for force projection, interdiction and close and deep air support. The Hornet and Super Hornet are also used for SEAD and the Super Hornet for aerial refueling.
The F-35C is a fifth-generation strike fighter that was originally planned to replace the F/A-18C Hornet, but expiring F/A-18C service life and delays in F-35C procurement forced the Navy to increase its buy of F/A-18E and F Super Hornets to replace F/A-18C Hornets while awaiting the arrival of the F-35C. As of 2018, all but three active component F/A-18C Hornet squadrons and the single reserve component Hornet squadron had transitioned to the F/A-18E or F Super Hornet. The first deployable squadron to transition to the F-35C is a Super Hornet squadron. Ultimately the three active component Hornet squadrons will transition to either the Super Hornet or F-35C and each Carrier Air Wing will be equipped with two Super Hornet squadrons and two F-35C squadrons.
When not deployed VFA squadrons are home-ported at NAS Lemoore, CA or NAS Oceana, VA except for the squadrons of CVW-5 which are forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan
Note: The parenthetical (1st), (2nd), (3rd) etc... appended to some designations in the lineage column of table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
"F/A-18 Hornet strike fighter". USN Fact File. United States Navy.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational Commander [bq] | Administrative Commander [br] | Squadron Lineage[280] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VFA-2 | Bounty Hunters | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-2(5th): 14 Oct 1942-21 Jul 2003 VFA-2: 21 Jul 2003-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-11 | Red Rippers | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VF-43(4th): 1 Sep 1950-16 Feb 1959 VF-11(3rd): 16 Feb 1959-18 Oct 2005 VFA-11: 18 Oct 2005-present |
Second "Red Rippers" squadron Homeport NAS Oceana | |
VFA-14 | Tophatters | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920 VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921 VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921 VF-4(1st) 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922 VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927 VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934 VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937 VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939 VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941 VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943 VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943 VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948 VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949 VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001 VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore Oldest currently active aircraft squadron in the U. S. Navy | |
VFA-22 | Fighting Redcocks | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-63: 28 Jul 1948-Mar 1956 VA-63: Mar 1956-1 Jul 1959 VA-22: 1 Jul 1959-4 May 1990 VFA-22: 4 May 1990-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-25 | Fist of the Fleet | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VT-7: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-6B: 15 Nov 1946-27 Jul 1948 VA-65(1st): 27 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1959 VA-25(2nd): 1 Jul 1959-1 Jul 1983 VFA-25: 1 Jul 1983-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-27 | Royal Maces | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VA-27: 1 Sep 1967-24 Jan 1991 VFA-27: 24 Jan 1991-present |
Forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan | |
VFA-31 | Tomcatters | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VF-1B(2nd): 1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937 VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943 VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946 VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-1 Aug 2006 VFA-31: 1 Aug 2006-present |
Second "Felix the Cat" squadron Homeport NAS Oceana | |
VFA-32 | Swordsmen | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VBF-3: 1 Feb 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-4A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948 VF-32(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-1 Aug 2006 VFA-23: 1 Aug 2006-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana | |
VFA-34 | Blue Blasters | F/A-18C | Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VA-34(3rd): 1 Jan 1970-30 Aug 1996 VFA-34: 30 Aug 1996-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana | |
VFA-37 | Ragin Bulls | F/A-18C | Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VA-37: 1 Jul 1967-28 Nov 1990 VFA-37: 28 Nov 1990-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana | |
VFA-41 | Black Aces | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-41(4th): 1 Sep 1950-1 Dec 2001 VFA-41: 1 Dec 2001-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-81 | Sunliners | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VA-66(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-81(4th): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1959 VA-81: 1 Jul 1959-4 Feb 1988 VFA-81: 4 Feb 1988-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana Established 1 July 1955 as VA-66 and redesignated VF-81 on the same day | |
VFA-83 | Rampagers | F/A-18C | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VF-916: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF83(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-83: 1 Jul 1955-1 Mar 1988 VFA-83: 1 Mar 1988-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana USNR squadron VF-916 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War | |
VFA-86 | Sidewinders | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-921: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-84(2nd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955 VA-86(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-15 Jul 1987 VFA-86: 15 Jul 1987-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore USNR squadron VF-921 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War | |
VFA-87 | Golden Warriors | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VA-87: 1 Feb 1968-May 1986 VFA-87: May 1986-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana | |
VFA-94 | Mighty Shrikes | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-94(2nd): 26 Mar 1952-1 Aug 1958 VA-94(2nd): 1 Aug 1958-24 Jan 1991 VFA-94: 24 Jan 1991-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-97 | Warhawks | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VA-97: 1 Jun 1967-24 Jan 1991 VFA-97: 24 Jan 1991-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-101 | Grim Reapers | F-35C | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-101: 1 May 1952-1 May 2012 (inactive 30 Sep 2005-1 May 2012) VFA-101: 1 May 2012-present |
Second "Grim Reaper" squadron Fleet Replacement Squadron based at Eglin Air Force Base with the USAF 33rd Fighter Wing which is the USAF F-35A training wing. VF-101 was deactivated on 30 Sep 2005 as a F-14 FRS and reactivated[281] and redesignated VFA-101 as a F-35C FRS on 1 May 2012 | |
VFA-102 | Diamondbacks | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VA-36(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955 VF-102(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-1 May 2002 VFA-102: 1 May 2002-present |
Forward Deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan Established 1 Jul 1955 as VA-36(2nd) and redesignated VF-102(2nd) on the same day | |
VFA-103 | Jolly Rogers | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VF-103: 1 May 1952-27 Apr 2006 VFA-103: 27 Apr 2006-present |
Third "Jolly Roger" squadron Homeport NAS Oceana | |
VFA-105 | Gunslingers | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VA-105(2nd): 4 Mar 1968-17 Dec 1990 VFA-105:17 Dec 1990-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana | |
VFA-106 | Gladiators | F/A-18C, F/A-18E, F/A-18F |
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VFA-106: 27 Apr 1984-present | Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS Oceana Adopted nickname and insignia of VA-106 which had been disestablished in 1969 | |
VFA-113 | Stingers | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-113: 15 Jul 1948-Mar 1959 VA-113: Mar 1956-25 Mar 1983 VFA-113: 25 Mar 1983-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-115 | Eagles | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VT-11: 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946 VA-12A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VA-115: 15 Jul 1948-30 Sep 1996 VFA-115: 30 Sep 1996-present |
Forward Deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan | |
VFA-122 | Flying Eagles | F/A-18E, F/A-18F | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VFA-122: 1 Oct 1998-present | Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS Lemoore Adopted nickname and insignia of VA-122 which had been disestablished in 1991 | |
VFA-125 | Rough Raiders | F-35C | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VFA-125: 13 Nov 1980-present (inactive 1 Oct 2010-12 Jan 2017) |
Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS Lemoore Adopted nickname and insignia of VA-125 which had been disestablished in 1977 Deactivated on 1 Oct 2010 as a Hornet FRS and reactivated[282] as a F-35C FRS on 12 Jan 2017 | |
VFA-131 | Wild Cats | F/A-18E (in transition) |
Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VFA-131: 3 Oct 1983-present | Homeport NAS Oceana Undergoing F/A-18C to F/A-18E transition in 2018 | |
VFA-136 | Knighthawks | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VFA-136: 1 Jul 1985-present | Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-137 | Kestrels | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VFA-137: 1 Jul 1985-present | Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-143 | Pukin' Dogs | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VF-871: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953 VF-123: 4 Feb 1953-12 Apr 1958 VF-53(3rd): 12 Apr 195-20 Jun 1962 VF-143(2nd): 20 Jun 1962-27 Apr 2006 VFA-143: 27 Apr 2006-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana USNR squadron VF-871 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War | |
VFA-146 | Blue Diamonds | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VA-146: 1 Feb 1956-21 Jul 1989 VFA-146: 21 Jul 1989-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-147 | Argonauts | F-35C (in transition) |
Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VA-147: 1 Feb 1967-20 Jul 1989 VFA-147: 20 Jul 1989-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore Undergoing F/A-18E to F-35C transition in 2018 | |
VFA-151 | Vigilantes | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-23(2nd): 6 Aug 1948-23 Feb 1959 VF-151(4th): 23 Feb 1959-1 Jun 1986 VFA-151: 1 Jun 1986-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-154 | Black Knights | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-837: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953 VF-154: 4 Feb 1953-1 Oct 2003 VFA-154: 1 Oct 2003-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore USNR VF-837 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War | |
VFA-192 | Golden Dragons | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946 VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948 VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950 VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-15 Mar 1956 VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1985 VFA-192: 10 Jan 1985-present |
Homeport NAS Lemoore | |
VFA-195 | Dambusters | F/A-18E | Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific | VT-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946 VA-20A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948 VA-195: 24 Aug 1948-1 Apr 1985 VFA-195: 1 Apr 1985-present |
Forward Deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan | |
VFA-204 | River Rattlers | F/A-18A | Commander, Tactical Support Wing | Commander, Tactical Support Wing | VA-204: 1 Jul 1970-1 May 1991 VFA-204: 1 May 1991-present |
U S Navy Reserve Squadron Homeport NAS JRB New Orleans | |
VFA-211 | Checkmates | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VB-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946 VA-1B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VA-24: 1 Sep 1948-1 Dec 1949 VF-24(2nd): 1 Dec 1949-9 Mar 1959 VF-211(2nd): 9 Mar 1959-1 Aug 2006 VFA-211: 1 Aug 2006-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana | |
VFA-213 | Black Lions | F/A-18F | Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT | Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic | VF-213: 22 Jun 1955-1 Aug 2006 VFA-213: 1 Aug 2006-present |
Homeport NAS Oceana |
Fighter Squadron Composite (VFC)
[edit]The VFC designation was created in 1988 when two Fleet Composite (VC) squadrons which were dedicated adversary squadrons were redesignated to differentiate them from the remaining VC squadrons which fulfilled various miscellaneous or utility roles. In 2006 a third VFC squadron was established from what had become a permanent detachment of VFC-13. VFC squadrons provide adversary simulation for fleet squadrons. All VFC squadrons are Navy Reserve squadrons.
Two of the squadrons are based at NAS Fallon and NAS Key West to support fleet VFA squadron training at the extensive range complexes supported by those air stations. The third is based at NAS Oceana to support Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic squadron training.
Note: The parenthetical (2nd) and (3rd) appended to some designations in the lineage column of table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational and Administrative Commander [bs] | Squadron Lineage[283] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VFC-12 | Fighting Omars | F/A-18A F/A-18B |
Commander, Tactical Support Wing | VC-12(3nd): 1 Sep 1973-22 Apr 1988 VFC-12: 22 Apr 1988-present |
U S Navy Reserve Squadron Based at NAS Oceana | |
VFC-13 | Saints | F-5F F-5N |
Commander, Tactical Support Wing | VC-13(2nd): 1 Sep 1973-22 Apr 1988 VFC-13: 22 Apr 1988-present |
U S Navy Reserve Squadron Based at NAS Fallon | |
VFC-111 | Sundowners | F-5F F-5N |
Commander, Tactical Support Wing | VFC-111: 1 Nov 2006-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Third "Sundowners" squadron Based at NAS Key West Adopted nickname and insignia of VF-111(3rd) which had been disestablished in 1995 |
Patrol (VP), Patrol Squadron Special Unit (VPU), Unmanned Patrol (VUP)
[edit]The VP designation is one of the oldest in the U. S. Navy and is the oldest designation currently in use. It first appeared in 1922 to designate "Seaplane Patrol Squadron" and from 1924 it has designated "Patrol Squadron".[284] In 1982 the VPU Patrol Squadron Special Unit designation was created.[285] Maritime patrol aircraft are used primarily for reconnaissance, anti-surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare. Volume 2 of the Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons contains comprehensive histories over 150 patrol squadrons. Its Appendix 7 details the lineage of every VP, VPB, VP(H), and VP(AM) squadron from 1922 through the late 1990s.
In 2016 the first "Unmanned" Patrol Squadron (VUP) was established. VUP-19 operates the MQ-4C Triton unmanned air vehicle from an operations center located at NAS Jacksonville while its aircraft with aircraft maintenance personnel are deployed around the world as required. A second VUP squadron is programmed for establishment in 2018 with an operations center at NAS Whidbey Island.
When not deployed VP squadrons are home-ported at NAS Jacksonville, FL or NAS Whidbey Island, WA except for VPU-2 which is home-ported at MCAS Kaneohe Bay.
Note: The parenthetical (1st), (2nd), (3rd) and (First use), (Second use) etc... appended to some designations in the table below are not part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational and Administrative Commander [bt] | Squadron Lineage[286] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VP-1 (Fifth use) |
Screaming Eagles | P-3C | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | VB-128: 15 Feb 1943-1 Oct 1944 VPB-128: 1 Oct 1944-15 May 1946 VP-128: 15 May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-ML-1: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VP-1(5th): 1 Sep 1948-present |
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VP-4 (Second use) |
Skinny Dragons | P-8A | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | VB-144: 1 Jul 1943-1 Oct 1944 VPB-144: 1 Oct 1944-15 May 1946 VP-144: 15 May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-ML-4: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VP-4(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-present |
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VP-5 (Second use) |
Mad Foxes | P-8A | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN | VP-17F: 2 Jan 1937-1 Oct 1937 VP-17(1st): 1 Oct 1937-1 Jul 1939 VP-42(1st): 1 Jul 1939-15 Feb 1943 VB-135: 15 Feb 1943-1 Oct 1944 VPB-135: 1 Oct 1944-15 May 1946 VP-135: 15 May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-ML-5: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VP-5(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-present |
Homeport NAS Jacksonville | |
VP-8 (Second use) |
Tigers | P-8A | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN | VP-201: 1 Sep 1942-1 Oct 1944 VPB-201: 1 Oct 1944-15 May 1946 VP-201: 15 May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-MS-1: 15 Nov 1946-5 Jun 1947 VP-ML-8: 5 Jun 1947-1 Sep 1948 VP-8(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-present |
Homeport NAS Jacksonville | |
VP-9 (Second use) |
Golden Eagles | P-8A | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | VP-9(2nd): 15 Mar 1951-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VP-10 (Third use) |
Red Lancers | P-8A | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN | VP-10(3rd): 19 Mar 1951-present | Homeport NAS Jacksonville | |
VP-16 (Third use) |
War Eagles | P-8A | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN | VP-906: May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-ML-56: 15 Nov 1946-Feb 1950 VP-741: Feb 1959-4 Feb 1953: VP-16(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-present[287] |
Homeport NAS Jacksonville USNR VP-741 activated on 1 May 1951 for the Korean War | |
VP-26 (Third use) |
Tridents | P-8A | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN | VB-114: 26 Aug 1943-1 Oct 1944 VPB-114: 1 Oct 1944-15 May 1946 VP-114: 15 May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-HL-6: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VP-26(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-present |
Homeport NAS Jacksonville | |
VP-30 | Pro's Nest | P-3C P-8A |
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group | VP-30: 30 Jun 1960-present | Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS Jacksonville | |
VP-40 (Second use) |
Fighting Marlins | P-3C | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | VP-40(2nd): 20 Jan 1951-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VP-45 (Third use) |
Pelicans | P-8A | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN | VP-205(1st): 1 Nov 1942-1 Oct 1944 VPB-205: 1 Oct 1944-15 May 1946 VP-205(2nd): 15 May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-MS-5: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VP-45(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-present |
Homeport NAS Jacksonville | |
VP-46 | Grey Knights | P-3C | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | VP-5S: 1 Sep 1931-1 Apr 1933 VP-5F: 1 Apr 1933-1937 VP-5(1st): 1937-1 Jul 1939 VP-33(1st): 1 Jul 1939-1 Jul 1941 VP-32(2nd): 1 Jul 1941-1 Oct 1944 VPB-32: 1 Oct 1944-15 May 1946 VP-MS-6: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VP-46: 1 Sep 1948-present |
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island Second oldest currently aircraft squadron in the U. S. Navy | |
VP-47 | Golden Swordsmen | P-8A | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | VP-27(1st): 1 Jun 1944-1 Oct 1944 VPB-27: 1 Oct 1944-15 May 1946 VP-27(2nd): 15 May 1946-15 Nov 1946 VP-MS-7: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948 VP-47: 1 Sep 1948-present |
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VP-62 (Fourth use) |
Broadarrows | P-3C | Commander, Maritime Support Wing | VP-62(4th): 1 Nov 1970-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Homeport NAS Jacksonville | |
VP-69 | Totems | P-3C | Commander, Maritime Support Wing | VP-69: 1 Nov 1970-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VPU-2 | Wizards | P-3C | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | VPU-2: 1 Jul 1982-present | Homeport MCAS Kaneohe Bay | |
VUP-11 | MQ-4C | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | To be established in 2018[288] | |||
VUP-19 | Big Red | MQ-4C | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN | VUP-19: 1 Oct 2016[289][290]-present | "Unmanned Patrol Squadron" Homeport NAS Jacksonville NAS Point Mugu (detachment) |
Fleet Air Reconnaissance (VQ)
[edit]The VQ designation was created in 1955 to designate "Electronic Countermeasures Squadron" and did so though 1960. By 1961 the VQ squadrons, rather than simply jamming communications and electronic signals, had been equipped to collect them for intelligence purposes. This new role of the VQ squadrons was recognized by changing the VQ designation from "Electronic Countermeasures Squadron" to "Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron."[291] Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron ONE is currently the Navy's only overt signals intelligence (SIGINT) and communications intelligence (COMINT) reconnaissance squadron. The 13 EP-3E aircraft in the Navy's inventory are based on the Orion P-3 airframe and provide fleet and theater commanders worldwide with near real-time tactical SIGINT and COMINT. With sensitive receivers and high-gain dish antennas, the EP-3E exploits a wide range of electronic emissions from deep within targeted territory.
Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadrons THREE and FOUR carry the VQ designation, but they are are not reconnaissance squadrons; they are airborne command and control, and communications relay squadrons which provide survivable, reliable, and endurable airborne command, control, and communications between the National Command Authority (NCA) and U.S. strategic and non-strategic forces. The squadrons' E-6B aircraft are dual-mission aircraft, capable of fulfilling both the airborne strategic command post mission equipped with an airborne launch control system (ALCS) which is capable of launching U.S. land based intercontinental ballistic missiles[292] and fulfilling the TACAMO ("Take Charge and Move Out") mission which links the NCA with Navy ballistic missile submarine forces during times of crisis. The aircraft carries a very low frequency communication system with dual trailing wire antennae for that communications relay mission.
Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron SEVEN is the E-6B Fleet Replacement Squadron, providing initial and requalification training for pilots, aircrewmen, and maintainers. It operates E-6Bs on loan from VQ-3 and VQ-4, having returned a 737-600 it had previously operated on lease from Lauda Air.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational Commander [bu] | Administrative Commander [bv] | Squadron Lineage[293] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VQ-1 | World Watchers | EP-3E | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN | VQ-1: 1 Jun 1955-present | Homeport NAS Whidbey Island | |
VQ-3 | Ironman | E-6B | Commander, United States Strategic Command task force 124[bw] | Commander, Strategic Communications Wing ONE | VQ-3: 1 Jul 1968-present | Homeport Tinker AFB Dets at Travis AFB and Offutt AFB | |
VQ-4 | Shadows | E-6B | Commander, United States Strategic Command task force 124[bx] | Commander, Strategic Communications Wing ONE | VQ-4: 1 Jul 1968-present | Homeport Tinker AFB Det at NAS Patuxent River | |
VQ-7 | Roughnecks | E-6B | Commander, Strategic Communications Wing ONE | Commander, Strategic Communications Wing ONE | Naval Training Support Unit: 1992-1 Nov 1999 VQ-7: 1 Nov 1999-present |
Fleet Replacement Squadron based at Tinker AFB |
Fleet Logistics Support (VR)
[edit]The VR designator was first established in 1942 to designated "Transport" or "Air Transport" or Fleet Logistic Air" squadrons. From 1958 to 1976 it designated "Fleet Tactical Support Squadron" and from 1976 to the present it designates "Fleet Logistics Support Squadron". Today all Fleet Logistics Support squadrons are U. S. Navy Reserve squadrons
Fleet Logistics Support Squadrons operate Navy Unique Fleet Essential Airlift (NUFEA) aircraft on a worldwide basis to provide responsive, flexible, and rapidly deployable air logistics support required to sustain combat operations from the sea. During peacetime, squadrons provide air logistics support for all Navy commands as well as provide continuous quality training for mobilization readiness. Fleet Logistics Support squadrons have no counterpart in the Regular Navy. They represent 100% of the Navy's medium and heavy intra-theater airlift, and operate year-round, around the world providing the critical link between deployed seagoing units and air mobility command logistics hubs. VR-1 provides dedicated airlift support to the Office of the Secretary of the Navy, Chief of Naval Operations and Commandant of the Marine Corps.
The Headquarters of the Fleet Logistics Support Wing is based at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, TX but the squadrons of the wing are based across the country from the east coast to Hawaii. In addition to the VR squadrons, the Fleet Logistics Support Wing also operates two "Executive Transport Detachments (ETDs)" based in Hawaii and Sigonella Italy.
Note: The parenthetical (2nd), (3rd), or (Second use), (Third use) etc... appended to some designations in the table below are not part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational and Administrative Commander [by] | Squadron Lineage[294] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VR-1 (Third use) |
Star Lifters | C-37B | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-1(3rd): 1 May 1997-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Joint Base Andrews | |
VR-51 (Second use) |
Windjammers | C-20G | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-51(2nd): 1 Jun 1997-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron MCAS Kaneohe Bay | |
VR-53 | Capital Express | C-130T | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-53: 1 Oct 1992-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron Naval Air Facility Washington | |
VR-54 | Revelers | C-130T | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-54: 1 Jun 1991-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron NAS JRB New Orleans | |
VR-55 | Minutemen | C-130T | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-55: 1 Apr 1976-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron NAS Point Mugu | |
VR-56 | Globemasters | C-40A | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-56: 1 Jul 1976-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron NAS Oceana | |
VR-57 | Conquistadors | C-40A | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-57: 1 Nov 1977-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron NAS North Island | |
VR-58 | Sunseekers | C-40A | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-58: 1 Nov 1977-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron NAS Jacksonville | |
VR-59 | Lone Star Express | C-40A | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-59: 1 Oct 1982-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron NAS JRB Fort Worth | |
VR-61 | Islanders | C-40A | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-61: 1 Oct 1982-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron NAS Whidbey Island | |
VR-62 | Nomads | C-130T | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VR-62: 1 Jul 1985-present | U S Navy Reserve Squadron NAS Jacksonville (Relocated from NAS Brunswick in 2009) | |
VR-64 | Condors | C-130T | Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing | VP-64: 1 Nov 1970-18 Sep 2004 VR-64: 18 Sep 2004-present |
U S Navy Reserve Squadron Joint Base McGuire, Dix, Lakehurst (Relocated from NAS Willow Grove in Mar 2011) |
Fleet Logistics Support (VRC)
[edit]The VRC designation was established in 1960 to designate "Fleet Tactical Support Squadron". In 1976 the designation was changed to "Fleet Logistics Support Squadron."
There are two Fleet Logistic Support squadrons equipped with the C-2A Greyhound Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) aircraft - one on each coast. VRC-30 is based at Naval Air Station North Island, VRC-40 is based at Naval Station Norfolk. These squadrons send two-plane detachments with each deploying Carrier Air Wing. The C-2A Greyhound, more commonly referred to as a "COD" (short for Carrier onboard delivery), is used to deliver high priority parts, supplies, people, and mail to/from the carrier and shore sites near the carrier operating area.
The E-2 Hawkeye and C-2 Greyhound are built on the same airframe and have many similar characteristics. For this reason, both aircraft are trained for in the same Fleet Replacement Squadron, VAW-120 (see VAW section).
Fleet Logistics Support Squadron THIRTY (VRC-30)
[edit]Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational Commander [bz] | Administrative Commander [ca] | Squadron Lineage[295] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VRC-30 | Providers | C-2A | Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing | Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing | VR-30: 1 Oct 1966-1 Oct 1978 VRC-30: 1 Oct 1978-present |
Homeport NAS North Island | |
VRC-30 Det 1 | Hustlers | C-2A | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN | Commanding Officer, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron THIRTY | Homeport NAS North Island | ||
VRC-30 Det 2 | Roughnecks | C-2A | Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO | Commanding Officer, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron THIRTY | Homeport NAS North Island | ||
VRC-30 Det 3 | Crusaders | C-2A | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN | Commanding Officer, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron THIRTY | Homeport NAS North Island | ||
VRC-30 Det 4 | Pure Horsepower | C-2A | Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE | Commanding Officer, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron THIRTY | Homeport NAS North Island | ||
VRC-30 Det 5 | Providers | C-2A | Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE | Commanding Officer, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron THIRTY | Forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan |
Fleet Logistics Support Squadron FORTY (VRC-40)
[edit]Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational Commander [cb] | Administrative Commander [cc] | Squadron Lineage[296] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VRC-40 | Rawhides | C-2A | Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing | Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing | VRC-40: 1 Jul 1960-present | Homeport NS Norfolk | |
VRC-40 Det 2 | Rawhides | C-2A | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE | Commanding Officer, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron FOURTY | Homeport NS Norfolk | ||
VRC-40 Det 3 | Rawhides | C-2A | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN | Commanding Officer, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron FOURTY | Homeport NS Norfolk | ||
VRC-40 Det 4 | Rawhides | C-2A | Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE | Commanding Officer, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron FOURTY | Homeport NS Norfolk | ||
VRC-40 Det 5 | Rawhides | C-2A | Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT | Commanding Officer, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron FOURTY | Homeport NS Norfolk |
Training (VT)
[edit]The VT designation was one of the original designations. It was established in 1921 to designate "Torpedo Plane Squadron". From 1922 to 1930 it designated "Torpedo & Bombing Squadron" and from 1930 to 1946 "Torpedo Squadron".[297] In 1946 all remaining Torpedo Squadrons and Bombing Squadrons (VB) were redesignated "Attack Squadrons" (VA) and the designation was retired.[298]
From 1927 to 1947 training squadrons were designated "VN".[299] From 1947 to 1960 training units were not designated as squadrons, they were "units" or "groups" called Basic Training Groups (BTG), Advanced Training Units (ATU), Jet Transition Training Units (JTTU) or Multi Engine Training Groups (METG). On 1 May 1960 the VT designation was resurrected and existing flying training units were designated "Training Squadrons (VT)".[300] There is no relationship between training squadrons designated VT in 1960 and the Torpedo or Torpedo and Bombing squadrons of the 1920s to 1940s.
There are two types of fixed wing training squadrons: Primary training squadrons train students in the first stage of flight training leading to selection to one of three advanced training pipelines for Aviators (Rotary Wing, Strike or Multi-Engine) or two advanced training pipelines for Flight Officers (Multi Crew or Strike). The advanced training squadrons conduct the final stage of flight training leading to "winging" of the new Naval Aviators and Naval Flight Officers in the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Navy training aircraft are painted orange and white.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational and Administrative Commander [cd] | Squadron Lineage[301] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VT-2 | Doerbirds | T-6B | Commander, Training Air Wing FIVE | BTG-2: ??-1 May 1960 VT-2: 1 May 1960-present |
Primary Training, based at NAS Whiting Field | |
VT-3 | Red Knights | T-6B | Commander, Training Air Wing FIVE | BTG-3: ??-1 May 1960 VT-3: 1 May 1960-present |
Primary Training, based at NAS Whiting Field | |
VT-4 | Warbucks | Multi-Crew Simulator | Commander, Training Air Wing SIX | BTG-9: ??-1 May 1960: VT-4: 1 May 1960-present (inactive Dec 2010-Jun 2013) |
NFO Advanced Training, based at NAS Pensacola Deactivated in Dec 2010 as an NFO primary training squadron and reactivated[302] as an NFO advanced training squadron in Jun 2013 | |
VT-6 | Shooters | T-6B | Commander, Training Air Wing FIVE | METG Whiting Field: 1 Jul 1956-1 May 1960 VT-6: 1 May 1960-present |
Primary Training, based at NAS Whiting Field | |
VT-7 | Eagles | T-45C | Commander, Training Air Wing ONE | BTG-7: 1 Jun 1958-1 May 1960 VT-7: 1 May 1960-present |
Advanced Training, based at NAS Meridian | |
VT-9 (Second training sqdn use) |
Tigers | T-45C | Commander, Training Air Wing ONE | VT-19: 2 Aug 1971-1 Oct 1998 VT-9(2nd): 1 Oct 1998-present |
Advanced Training, based at NAS Meridian (There was an earlier training squadron designated VT-9 also called "Tigers" which existed from 15 Dec 1961 to Jul 1987) | |
VT-10 | Wildcats | T-6A |
Commander, Training Air Wing SIX | BNAO School*: Jun 1960-15 Jan 1968 VT-10: 15 Jan 1968-present |
*Basic Naval Aviation Officer School NFO Primary Training, based at NAS Pensacola | |
VT-21 | Redhawks | T-45C | Commander, Training Air Wing TWO | ATU-202: Apr 1951-1 May 1960 VT-21: 1 May 1960-present |
Advanced Training, based at NAS Kingsville | |
VT-22 | Golden Eagles | T-45C | Commander, Training Air Wing TWO | ATU-6: 13 Jun 1949-?? JTTU-1: ??-?? ATU-3: ??-?? ATU-212: ??-1 May 1960 VT-22: 1 May 1960-present |
Advanced Training, based at NAS Kingsville | |
VT-27 | Boomers | T-6B | Commander, Training Air Wing FOUR | ATU-B: 11 Jul 1951-?? ATU-402: ?? 1 Jul 1960 VT-27: 1 Jul 1960-present |
Primary Training, based at NAS Corpus Christi | |
VT-28 | Rangers | T-6B | Commander, Training Air Wing FOUR | ATU-611: ??-1 May 1969 VT-28: 1 May 1960-present |
Primary Training, based at NAS Corpus Christi | |
VT-31 | Wise Owls | T-44C | Commander, Training Air Wing FOUR | ATU-601: Feb 1958-1 May 1960 VT-31: 1 May 1960-present |
Advanced Training, based at NAS Corpus Christi | |
VT-35 | Stingrays | T-44C | Commander, Training Air Wing FOUR | VT-35: 29 Oct 1999-present | Advanced Training, based at NAS Corpus Christi | |
VT-86 | Sabrehawks | T-45C | Commander, Training Air Wing SIX | VT-86: 5 Jun 1972-present | NFO Advanced Training, based at NAS Pensacola |
Air Test and Evaluation (VX), Scientific Development (VXS)
[edit]The VX designation was first used from 1927 to 1943 to designate "Experimental Squadron". It was again used beginning in 1946 when four "Experimental and Development" squadrons (VX-1 (still exists today), 2, 3 and 4)[303] were established to develop and evaluate new equipment and methods. From 1946 to 1968 the designation was variously "Experimental and Development" squadron, "Operational Development" squadron, "Air Operational Development" squadron and "Air Development" squadron. In 1969 the designation changed to "Air Test and Evaluation" and it remains as such today.[304]
Test and Evaluation squadrons test everything from basic aircraft flying qualities to advanced aerodynamics to weapons systems effectiveness. VX-20, VX-23, VX-30, VX-31 (as well as HX-21) conduct developmental test and evaluation of aircraft and weapons as part of the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIRSYSCOM) while VX-1 and VX-9 conduct operational test and evaluation of aircraft and weapons as part of the Operational Test and Evaluation Force (OPTEVFOR).
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational and Administrative Commander [ce] | Squadron Lineage[305] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VX-1 | Pioneers | P-3C MH-60R MH-60S SH-60F EP-3E E-6B KC-130J E-2D RQ-4 P-8A |
Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force | Acft ASW Dev Det Atlantic Flt: 1 Apr 1943-17 Sep 1943 ASW Dev Det Atlantic Flt: 17 Sep 1943-15 Mar 1946 VX-1: 15 Mar 1946-present |
Operational test and evaluation of ASW and other "maritime" aircraft and weapons. Based at NAS Patuxent River[306] | |
VX-9 | Vampires | F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F F-35B/C EA-18G |
Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force | VX-9: 30 Apr 1994-present | Operational test and evaluation of strike aircraft and weapons. Based at NAWS China Lake Established from the assets of VX-4(2nd) "Evaluators" and VX-5 "Vampires" which were both disestablished in 1994 | |
VX-20 | Force | E-2C P-3C C-130 C-2A E-6B T-6A T-6B |
Commander, Naval Test Wing Atlantic | Naval Force Acft Test Sqdn: 21 Jul 1955-1 May 2002 VX-21: 1 May 2002 |
Developmental test and evaluation of ASW and other maritime aircraft NAS Patuxent River[307] | |
VX-23 | Salty Dogs | F-35B/C F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F EA-6B EA-18G T-45 |
Commander, Naval Test Wing Atlantic | Naval Strike Acft Test Sqdn: 21 Jul 1995-1 May 2002 VX-23: 1 May 2001-present |
Developmental test and evaluation of Strike Aircraft NAS Patuxent River | |
VX-30 | Bloodhounds | C-130 P-3 NP-3D KC-130T UAVs |
Commander, Naval Test Wing Pacific | Naval Weapons Test Sqdn, Pt Mugu: 8 May 1995-1 May 2002 VX-30: 1 May 2002-present |
Logistics and Range operations support for developmental test and evaluation of airborne weapons Based at NAS Point Mugu | |
VX-31 | Dust Devils | F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F EA-18G NEA-18G P-3 C-130 AV-8B TAV-8B T-39 MH-60S AH-1Z UH-1Y and other variants |
Commander, Naval Test Wing Pacific | Naval Weapons Test Sqdn, China Lake: 8 May 1995-1 May 2002 VX-31: 1 May 2002-present |
Developmental test and evaluation of airborne weapons Based at NAWS China Lake | |
VXS-1 | Warlocks | NP-3C RC-12 UAVs |
Commander, Naval Research Laboratory | VXS-1: 13 Dec 2004-present | NRL transport and research support Based at NAS Patuxent River[306] Formerly NRL's Flight detachment |
Other
[edit]Other than the Naval Flight Demonstration Squadrons (NFDS) "Blue Angels", the organizations in the table below are not technically "squadrons", however they either have custody of and routinely fly Navy aircraft or they routinely fly aircraft on loan from fleet squadrons for advanced training of those fleet squadrons.
Rotary Wing Squadrons
[edit]US Navy rotary wing squadron designations start with the letter H. The first use of the letter H to designate a "Helicopter" squadron was in 1948 with the establishment of Helicopter Utility Squadrons (HU)[308] ONE and TWO. Prior the creation of the HU designation, the two types of Navy squadrons were "heavier than air" squadrons designated with V as the first letter, and "lighter than air" squadrons designated with Z as the first letter. By 1961 the Navy had disestablished its last lighter than air squadrons leaving only the V and H designations. Since that time V has in practicality become the designation for "fixed wing squadron" and H for "rotary wing squadron." The Navy today uses helicopters primarily in the antisubmarine warfare, antisurface warfare, mine countermeasures, combat search and rescue, special operations, overwater search and rescue, and vertical replenishment roles.
Helicopter Mine Countermeasures (HM)
[edit]The HM designation was created in 1971 to designate "Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron". HM Squadrons employ 28 total MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters. The primary mission of the Sea Dragon is Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM). The MH-53 can operate from aircraft carriers, large amphibious ships and the new expeditionary sea base and is capable of towing a variety of mine hunting/sweeping countermeasures systems.[309]
The MH-53E Sea Dragon is also a capable heavy-lift asset, with three powerful turboshaft engines and a maximum take-off weight of 69,750 pounds (31,640 kg). This gives the Sea Dragon the capability to carry an impressive amount of cargo, personnel or equipment over long distances. The Sea Dragon remains in service as the Navy's only heavy-lift helicopter and only proven mine countermeasure platform. While programmed to replace the USMC's CH-53E and not the Navy's MH-53E, the new Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion, intended to start flying its evaluations in 2015, has an increased MTOW figure of some 84,700 lb (38,400 kg), some 14,950 lb (6,781 kg) heavier than the Sea Dragon.
The Navy's recently completed "Helicopter Master Plan" was a plan to reduce the number of type/model/series from eight down to two (MH-60R and MH-60S). It recognized that the replacement of the MH-53 in the mine countermeasures role was dependent on technology which has not yet matured. As a result, the MH-53E continues in service as the only helicopter capable now and in the near future of effectively conducting airborne mine countermeasures.
Note: The parenthetical (second use) and (2nd) in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U. S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational and Administrative Commander [cf] | Squadron Lineage[310] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HM-12 (Second use) |
Sea Dragons | MH-53E | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HM-12(2nd): 1 Oct 2015-present | Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NS Norfolk (There was an earlier squadron designated HM-12 also called the "Sea Dragons" which existed from 1 Apr 1971 to 30 Sep 1994) | |
HM-14 | Vanguard | MH-53E | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HM-14: 12 May 1978-present | Homeport NS Norfolk | |
HM-15 | Blackhawks | MH-53E | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HM-15: 2 Jan 1987-present | Homeport NS Norfolk |
Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC)
[edit]The Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) Designation is one of the newest designations in Naval Aviation. It was first used in 2005 after the Helicopter Combat Support (HC) squadrons equipped with the H-46 Sea Knight had completed their transitions to the new MH-60S Seahawk. Beginning in 2007 the Helicopter Antisubmarine (HS) squadrons began their transitions from the SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawks to the new MH-60S as well. The ASW capabilities resident in the HS squadrons were lost in the transition but the new HSC squadrons combine the at sea logistics capability of the former Helicopter Combat Support (HC) squadrons with greatly upgraded Combat Search and Rescue, Naval Special Warfare Support and Anti-Surface Warfare capabilities of the former Helicopter Anti-submarine squadrons (HS).[311]
The HSC squadrons which were formerly HS squadrons are carrier based and deploy as part of a Carrier Air Wing, while the HSC squadrons which were formerly HC squadrons or were newly established are land based "expeditionary" squadrons which supply detachments for deployment aboard ships other than aircraft carriers or for land based deployments as required. The squadrons are home-ported at NS Norfolk, NAS North Island and Anderson AFB, Guam with one squadron forward deployed to NAF Atsugi, Japan. Expeditionary HSC squadrons are capable of deploying mixed detachments of MH-60S and MQ-8B aircraft.
Note: The parenthetical (2nd) used in the lineage column of table below is not a part of the squadron designation system. It is added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U. S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational Commander [cg] | Administrative Commander [ch] | Squadron Lineage[312] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HSC-2 | Fleet Angels | MH-60S | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HC-2(2nd): 1 Apr 1987-24 Aug 2005 HSC-2: 24 Aug 2005-present |
Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NS Norfolk (There was an earlier squadron designated HC-2 also called "Fleet Angels" which existed from 1 Apr 1948 to 30 Sep 1977) | |
HSC-3 | Merlins | MH-60S | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | HC-3: 1 Sep 1967-31 Oct 2005 HSC-3: 31 Oct 2005-present |
Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS North Island | |
HSC-4 | Black Knights | MH-60S | Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | HS-4: 30 Jun 1952-Mar 2012 HSC-4: Mar 2012-present |
Homeport NAS North Island | |
HSC-5 | Nightdippers | MH-60S | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HS-5: 3 Jan 1956-28 Feb 2009: HSC-5: 28 Feb 2009-present |
Homeport NS Norfolk | |
HSC-6 | Indians | MH-60S | Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | HS-6: 1 Jun 1956-Jul 2011 HSC-6: Jul 2011-present |
Homeport NAS North Island | |
HSC-7 | Dusty Dogs | MH-60S | Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HS-7(2nd): 15 Dec 1969-Apr 2011 HSC-7: Apr 2011-present |
Homeport NS Norfolk (There was an earlier squadron designated HS-7 called the "Big Dippers" which existed from 2 Apr 1956 to 31 May 1966) | |
HSC-8 | Eightballers | MH-60S | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | HS-8(2nd): 1 Nov 1969-1 Apr 2007 HSC-8: 1 Apr 2007-present |
Homeport NAS North Island (There was an earlier squadron designated HS-8 also called "Eighballers" which existed from 1 Jun 1956 to 31 Dec 1968) | |
HSC-9 | Tridents | MH-60S | Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HS-3: 18 Jun 1952-1 Jun 2009 HSC-9: 1 Jun 2009-present |
Homeport NS Norfolk | |
HSC-11 | Dragon Slayers | MH-60S | Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HS-11: 27 Jun 1957-Jun 2016 HSC-11: Jun 2016-present |
Homeport NS Norfolk | |
HSC-12 | Golden Falcons | MH-60S | Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | HS-2: 7 Mar 1952-1 Jan 2009 HSC-12: 1 Jan 2009-present |
Forward deployed to NAF Atsugi Japan | |
HSC-14 | Chargers | MH-60S | Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | HS-14: 19 Jul 1984-Jul 2013 HSC-14: Jul 2013-present |
Homeport NAS North Island | |
HSC-21 | Blackjacks | MH-60S | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | HC-11: 1 Oct 1977-7 Nov 2005 HSC-21: 7 Nov 2005-present |
Homeport NAS North Island Expeditionary Squadron | |
HSC-22 | Sea Knights | MH-60S | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HSC-22: 1 Oct 2006-present | Homeport NS Norfolk Expeditionary Squadron | |
HSC-23 | Wild Cards | MH-60S | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | HSC-23: 1 Oct 2006-present | Homeport NAS North Island Expeditionary Squadron | |
HSC-25 | Island Knights | MH-60S | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | HC-5(2nd): 3 Feb 1984-24 Oct 2005 HSC 25: 24 Oct 2005-present |
Homeport Andersen AFB, Guam Expeditionary Squadron | |
HSC-26 | Chargers | MH-60S | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HC-6: 1 Sep 1967-24 Aug 2005 HSC-26: 24 Aug 2005-present |
Homeport NS Norfolk Expeditionary Squadron | |
HSC-28 | Dragon Whales | MH-60S | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | HC-8: 3 Dec 1984-13 May 2005 HSC-28: 13 May 2005-present |
Homeport NS Norfolk Expeditionary Squadron | |
HSC-85 | (2006) (2011) |
High Rollers (2006) Fire Hawks (2011) |
MH-60S (2006) HH-60H (2011) |
Commander, Maritime Support Wing | Commander, Maritime Support Wing | HS-85: 1 Jul 1970-1 Oct 1994 HC-85: 1 Oct 1994-8 Feb 2006 HSC-85: 8 Feb 2006-present |
U S Navy Reserve Squadron Naval Special Warfare Support Homeport NAS North Island Expeditionary Squadron (Adopted "Firehawks" name and insignia in 2011 from deactivated HCS-5) |
Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM)
[edit]The HSM designation is the newest designation in Naval Aviation having been first used in 2006 when the Fleet Replacement Squadron for the MH-60R Seahawk was redesignated from HSL. The first operational fleet squadron to receive the MH-60 Romeo was HSM-71 in fiscal year 2008. The new designation was created to reflect the MH-60Rs multi-mission capabilities[313] which combined the area search capabilities of the SH-60B flown by the Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) squadrons with the dipping sonar of the SH-60F flown by the carrier based Helicopter Anti-Submarine (HS) squadrons. With the transition of the HS squadrons to HSC squadrons without any ASW capability and the disestablishment of the last Air Antisubmarine (VS) squadrons, all ship based airborne ASW capabilities now reside in the new HSM squadrons.
From 2009 to 2015 all Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) squadrons transitioned to the MH-60R and were redesignated Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) squadrons. Additionally, new HSM squadrons were established in order to provide an HSM squadron to each Carrier Air Wing and to provide "Expeditionary" squadrons to supply detachments of MH-60Rs to ships other than aircraft carriers. Expeditionary HSM squadrons are capable of deploying mixed detachments of MH-60R and MQ-8B aircraft.
HSM squadrons are home-ported at NAS North Island, NAS Jacksonville, NS Mayport and MCAS Kaneohe Bay with two squadrons forward deployed to NAF Atsugi Japan
Helicopter Training (HT)
[edit]The HT designation first appeared in May of 1960 to designate Helicopter Training Squadron at the same time that the VT designation was resurrected to designate Training Squadron. In the early years of helicopter operations in the Navy, helicopter pilots were qualified fixed wing pilots who received transition training once they reported to a helicopter squadron. In 1950 a dedicated helicopter training unit was established and in 1960 that unit became the first HT squadron. As the demand for helicopter pilots increased over the decades, additional HT squadrons were established and today approximately 60% of the Student Naval Aviators from all services (Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard) are winged as helicopter pilots.
The Naval Air Training Command's Helicopter Training Squadrons provide advanced helicopter flight instruction to all Navy, US Marine Corps, and United States Coast Guard helicopter flight students as well as to international students from several allied nations. Student Naval Aviators are selected for helicopter training after completion of primary flight training in the T-6B in one of the VT squadrons. Students who successfully complete the program earn the right to wear the coveted "Wings of Gold."[317] and proceed on to their selected aircraft's Fleet Replacement Squadron.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational and Administrative Commander [ck] | Squadron Lineage[318] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HT-8 | Eightballers | TH-57B TH-57C |
Commander, Training Air Wing FIVE | HTU-1: 3 Dec 1950-Mar 1957 HTG-1: Mar 1957- 1 Jul 1960 HT-8: 1 Jul 1960-present |
Advanced training based at NAS Whiting Field | |
HT-18 | Vigilant Eagles | TH-57B TH-57C |
Commander, Training Air Wing FIVE | HT-18: 1 Mar 1972-present | Advanced training based at NAS Whiting Field | |
HT-28 | Hellions | TH-57B TH-57C |
Commander, Training Air Wing FIVE | HT-28: 1 Nov 2006-present | Advanced training based at NAS Whiting Field |
Air Test and Evaluation (HX)
[edit]Test and Evaluation squadrons test everything from basic aircraft flying qualities to advanced aerodynamics to weapons systems effectiveness. HX-21 conducts developmental test and evaluation of rotary wing and tilt rotor aircraft and weapons as part of the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIRSYSCOM).
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational and Administrative Commander [cl] | Squadron Lineage[319] | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HX-21 | Blackjack | AH-1Z UH-1Y MH-60R MH-60S MV-22B AH-1W UH-1N VH-3A CH-53E TH-57C SH-60F |
Commander, Naval Test Wing Atlantic | Naval Rotary Wing Acft Test Sqdn: 21 Jul 1995-1 May 2002 HX-21: 1 May 2002-present |
Developmental test and evaluation of Rotary Wing and Tilt Rotor Aircraft NAS Patuxent River[320] |
Other
[edit]The organizations in the table below are not technically "squadrons", however they either have custody of and routinely fly Navy aircraft or they routinely fly aircraft on loan from fleet squadrons for advanced training of those fleet squadrons.
Squadron Designation | Insignia | Nickname | Aircraft | Operational and Administrative Commander | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Navy Rotary Wing Weapons School | SEAWOLF | MH-60S | Commander, Naval Aviation Warfare Development Center | Based at NAS Fallon | |
Helicopter Sea Combat Weapons School Atlantic | MH-60S MH-53E MQ-8B |
Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic | Based at NS Norfolk | ||
Helicopter Sea Combat Weapons School Pacific | MH-60S MQ-8B |
Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific | Based at NAS North Island | ||
Helicopter Maritime Strike Weapons School Atlantic | Talons | MH-60R MQ-8B |
Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic | Based at NS Mayport | |
Helicopter Maritime Strike Weapons School Pacific | Honey Badgers | MH-60R MQ-8B |
Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific | Based at NAS North Island |
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 3
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons chap 1 pg 13
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6 - VA Squadron Lineage Listing
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 1
- ^ http://a4skyhawk.info/article-unit/va126
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 2
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- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol II, App 7
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 3
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 3
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 3
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 3
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- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Grossnick 1995, Chapter 6 pp.309-313
- ^ Grossnick 1995, Chapter 6 pp.309-313
- ^ Grossnick 1995, Chapter 6 pp.314-316
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 4
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
- ^ http://www.seaforces.org/usnair/VAW/Carrier-Airborne-Early-Warning-Squadron-33.htm
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G
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- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, chap 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, chap 4
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- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, chap 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
- ^ http://www.seaforces.org/usnair/VAW/Carrier-Airborne-Early-Warning-Squadron-33.htm
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
- ^ http://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm
- ^ http://www.seaforces.org/usnair/VAW/Carrier-Airborne-Early-Warning-Squadron-111.htm
- ^ http://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm
- ^ http://www.seaforces.org/usnair/VAW/Carrier-Airborne-Early-Warning-Squadron-111.htm
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
- ^ http://www.seaforces.org/usnair/VAW/Carrier-Airborne-Early-Warning-Squadron-207.htm
- ^ http://vaw-vrcreadyroom.org/squadrons/
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons, Volume-1, Chapter 1: The evolution of aircraft class and squadron designation systems
- ^ a b c d e f g h i "Squadrons of the US Navy". www.wings-aviation.ch. Retrieved 6 June 2017.
- ^ "Brians WWII Surplus and Antiques Store - WWII Patch, USN, VC-10 Composite Squadron (Powered by CubeCart)". www.wwiijeepparts.com. Retrieved 6 June 2017.
- ^ dictionary-of-american-naval-aviation-squadrons-volume-1/appendix-4-us-navy-squadron-designations-and-abbreviations
- ^ a b "Fighter Squadron Lineage". www.history.navy.mil. Retrieved 6 June 2017.
- ^ Naval Aviation News April 1955 pg 1
- ^ http://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm
- ^ http://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm
- ^ a b c d OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ http://www.utron1.itgo.com/vc-1_history1.htm
- ^ http://www.crusader.gaetanmarie.com/units/usnavy/VC-2%20Blue%20Falcons.htm
- ^ "RQ-2A Pioneer Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)". United States Navy Fact File. United States Navy. 27 August 2007. Retrieved 1 December 2008.
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Grossnick 1995, Chapter 6 pp.309-313
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 1
- ^ https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/fighter-squadron-lineage.html
- ^ https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/fighter-squadron-lineage.html
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/vf2.htm
- ^ http://www.vfa14.navy.mil/history%20early.htm
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/vf2.htm
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ http://www.vfa2.navy.mil/rippers.htm
- ^ http://www.gonavy.jp/CV-CV41-01f.html
- ^ http://www.gonavy.jp/CV-CV41-01f.html
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 2 pg 264
- ^ Naval Aviation News June 1958 pg 22
- ^ Naval Aviation News March 1961 pg 3
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
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- ^ http://vw1assoc.org/vw-3_decom_date_nears.html
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1961 pg 17
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- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons, Vol I Chapter 6 pp.309-313
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons, Vol I Chapter 6 pp.314-316
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1961 pg 15
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 11
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 11
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 11
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 11
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ a b "Category:Anti-Submarine Squadron 27 (United States Navy) - Wikimedia Commons". commons.wikimedia.org. Retrieved 6 June 2017.
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
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- ^ "Viking Squadrons and Wings". www.vikingassociation.com. Retrieved 6 June 2017.
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chapter 1, pg 10
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ http://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm
- ^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1977 pg 15
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1977 pg 15
- ^ Naval Aviation News March-April 2000 pg 9
- ^ Naval Aviation News November-December 1992 pg 7
- ^ Naval Aviation News November-December 1992 pg 7
- ^ Naval Aviation News July-August 1992 pg 6
- ^ Naval Aviation News June 1960 pg 15
- ^ Naval Aviation News July 1964 pg 25
- ^ Naval Aviation News March 1977 pg 3
- ^ Naval Aviation News June 1960 pg 15
- ^ http://www.vpnavy.com/vt30_shipmates.html
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ http://www.utron1.itgo.com/vc-1_history1.htm
- ^ http://www.crusader.gaetanmarie.com/units/usnavy/VC-2%20Blue%20Falcons.htm
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons, Vol I App 4
- ^ http://www.willyvictor.com/History/VW-1/VW1_hist.html
- ^ Naval Aviation News July 1971 pg 4
- ^ http://www.willyvictor.com/History/VW-1/VW1_hist.html
- ^ Naval Aviation News Nov 1963 pg 22
- ^ http://www.willyvictor.com/History/ColdWar.html
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol II app 7
- ^ http://www.willyvictor.com/History/ColdWar.html
- ^ http://vw1assoc.org/vw-3_decom_date_nears.html
- ^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1961 pg 17
- ^ Naval Aviation News July 1975 pg 12
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- ^ Naval Aviation News Apr 1963 pg 14
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1967 pg 2
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1957 pg 1
- ^ Naval Aviation News Dec 1965 pg 11
- ^ Naval Aviation News Jan 1957 pg 5
- ^ Naval Aviation News Apr 1960 pg 38
- ^ http://www.willyvictor.com/pacific_barrier/pacbar_1.html
- ^ Naval Aviation News Apr 1960 pg 38
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- ^ Naval Aviation News Nov 1957 pg 29
- ^ Naval Aviation News Nov 1957 pg 29
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- ^ http://www.willyvictor.com/Pacific_Barrier/PacBar_1.html
- ^ Naval Aviation News Aug 1947 pg 24
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Appendix 4
- ^ Naval Aviation News Aug 1947 pg 24
- ^ Naval Aviation News Sept 1947 pg 1
- ^ a b Thomason, Tommy H. (23 July 2010), "VX Squadrons", U.S. Navy Aircraft History
- ^ Naval Aviation News Aug 1947 pg 24
- ^ http://www.chinalakealumni.org/VX-5.htm
- ^ http://www.chinalakealumni.org/VX-5.htm
- ^ Naval Aviation News, March 1969
- ^ http://www.afvn.tv/ProjectJenny/history.html
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- ^ http://www.afvn.tv/ProjectJenny/history.html
- ^ https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 4
- ^ https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html
- ^ https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html
- ^ https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 4
- ^ https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html
- ^ https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 4
- ^ https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html
- ^ OPNAV Notice 5400. 14 August 2012
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- ^ https://www.helis.com/database/sqd/1251/
- ^ Naval Aviation News Sept 1947 pg 1
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 3
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 3
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 9
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 4
- ^ "EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft". USN Fact File. United States Navy.
- ^ "US Navy retires Prowler electronic attack aircraft after close to 45 years' service - IHS Jane's 360". www.janes.com. Retrieved 4 July 2015.
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G encl 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6
- ^ Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3
- ^ "E-2 Hawkeye early warning and control aircraft". USN Fact File. United States Navy. 5 February 2009. Retrieved 20 October 2014.
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ A, C, and E models are single seat. B, D, and F models are two seat.
- ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 10 August 2014. Retrieved 4 November 2014.
{{cite web}}
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- ^ Burgess, Richard. B. Seapower Magazine. "Navy Plans for Poseidon Crew Control of Triton UAV." August 13, 2013. http://www.seapowermagazine.org/stories/20130813-triton.html.
- ^ http://jaxairnews.jacksonville.com/military-jax-air-news/2016-11-02/story/vup-19-commissioning-ceremony
- ^ Stewart, Joshua. "UAV squadron to stand up Oct. 1; 1st since 2007." February 5, 2013. http://www.armytimes.com/article/20130205/NEWS/302050316/.
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- ^ "E-6B Airborne Command Post (ABNCP)". United States Strategic Command. Archived from the original on 9 January 2009.
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- ^ a b "Naval Air Station Patuxent River Base Guide". DCMilitary.com. Comprint Military Publications. 12 August 2008. Archived from the original on 21 January 2013. Retrieved 1 December 2008.
- ^ "VX-20 Aircraft Platforms". Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ZERO. United States Navy. 10 June 2006. Archived from the original on 28 August 2009. Retrieved 1 December 2008.
- ^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
- ^ "MH-53E Sea Dragon". USN Fact File. United States Navy.
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- ^ "MH-60R Seahawk". USN Fact File. United States Navy.
- ^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
- ^ London, Christina. "Navy Drone Squadron First of Its Kind."[permanent dead link] NBC San Diego, 3 May 2013.
- ^ Utz, Curtis A; Mark L Evans; Dale J Gordon (July–August 2005). "The Year in Review 2004" (PDF). Naval Aviation News. United States Navy: 37. Archived from the original (PDF) on 28 February 2008.
- ^ "Helicopter Training Squadron 8". Global Security.
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- ^ Carlson, Ted (Spring 2005). "HX-21 - Blackjack". Wings of Gold. Association of Naval Aviation. Archived from the original on 29 December 2007. Retrieved 1 December 2008.
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