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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.

^[8]

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

Naval Aircrewman
Naval Aircrewman
	Naval Air Crewman (AW) Rating Badge
Issued by	United States Navy
Type	Enlisted rating
Abbreviation	AW

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.

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
^ ^a ^b ^c https://www.history.navy.mil/content/dam/nhhc/research/histories/naval-aviation/dictionary-of-american-naval-aviation-squadrons-volume-2/pdfs/Appen13.pdf ^{[bare URL PDF]}
^ 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
^ ^a ^b "VPNAVY – Commander, Patrol Wing Main Summary Page – VP Patrol Squadron". www.vpnavy.com.
^ 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	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	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	Nickname	Aircraft^[m]	Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates^[n]	Disestablished as	Disestablished Date
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	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	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	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	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	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	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	Nickname	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	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	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	Nickname	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	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	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	Nickname	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	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	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	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	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	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	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	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	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.

Squadron Designation	Nickname	Aircraft	Operational Commander ^[bo]	Administrative Commander ^[bp]	Squadron Lineage^[275]	Notes
VAW-113	Black Eagles	E-2C	Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	VAW-113: 20 Apr 1967-present	Homeport NAS Pt. Mugu Established from a detachment of VAW-11
VAW-115	Liberty Bells	E-2C	Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	VAW-115: 20 Apr 1967-present	Homeport NAS Pt. Mugu Established from a detachment of VAW-11
VAW-116	Sun Kings	E-2C	Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	VAW-116: 20 Apr 1967-present	Homeport NAS Pt. Mugu Established from a detachment of VAW-11
VAW-117	Wallbangers	E-2C	Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	VAW-116: 1 Jul 1974-present	Homeport NAS Pt. Mugu
VAW-120	Grey Hawks	E-2C E-2D C-2A	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	RVAW-120: 1 Jul 1967-1 May 1983 VAW-120: 1 May 1983-present	Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NS Norfolk RVAW-120 established from VAW-12
VAW-121	Blue Tails	E-2D	Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	VAW-121: 1 Apr 1967-present	Homeport NS Norfolk Established from a detachment of VAW-12
VAW-123	Screwtops	E-2C	Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	VAW-123: 1 Apr 1967-present	Homeport NS Norfolk Established from a detachment of VAW-12
VAW-124	Bear Aces	E-2C	Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	VAW-124: 1 Sep 1967-present	Homeport NS Norfolk Established from a detachment of VAW-12
VAW-125	Tigertails	E-2D	Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	VAW-125: 1 Oct 1968-present	Forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni Japan
VAW-126	Seahawks	E-2D	Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	VAW-126: 1 Apr 1969-present	Homeport NS Norfolk

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	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	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	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	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	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	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	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	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	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.

Squadron Designation	Nickname	Aircraft	Operational and Administrative Commander	Notes
USN Test Pilot School		Various	Commander, Naval Test Wing Atlantic	NAS Patuxent River
Naval Flight Demonstration Squadron	Blue Angels	F/A-18A/B/C/D C-130T	Commander, Naval Air Training Command (CNATRA)	Homeport NAS Pensacola Winter training site NAF El Centro It has been announced that the Blue Angles are to transition to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
Navy Fighter Weapons School	TOPGUN	F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F F-16A/B	Commander, Naval Aviation Warfare Development Center	Based at NAS Fallon
Carrier Airborne Early Warning Weapons School	TOPDOME	E-2C	Commander, Naval Aviation Warfare Development Center	Based at NAS Fallon
Airborne Electronic Attack Weapons School	HAVOC	EA-18G	Commander, Naval Aviation Warfare Development Center	Based at NAS Fallon
Strike Fighter Weapons School Atlantic		F/A-18	Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic	Based at NAS Oceana
Strike Fighter Weapons School Pacific		F/A-18	Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific	Based at NAS Lemoore
Electronic Attack Weapons School		EA-18G	Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific	Based at NAS Whidbey Island
Airborne Command Control and Logistics Weapons School		E-2C, E-2D C-2A	Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing	Based at NS Norfolk
Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Weapons School		P-3C P-8A MQ-4C	Commander Patrol and Reconnaissance Group	Based at NAS Jacksonville
Pacific Missile Range Facility	Outrider	RC-26D EC-26D		Pacific Missile Range Facility Barking Sands

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	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

An MH-60R prepares to conduct sonar dip operations.

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

Squadron Designation	Nickname	Aircraft	Operational Commander ^[ci]	Administrative Commander ^[cj]	Squadron Lineage^[314]	Notes
HSM-35	Magicians	MH-60R MQ-8B	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSM-35: 2 May 2013-present^[315]	Homeport NAS North Island Expeditionary Squadron (There was an earlier squadron designated HSL-35 also called "Magicians" which existed from 15 Jan 1974 to 4 Dec 1992)
HSM-37	Easyriders	MH-60R	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSL-37: 3 Jul 1975-Oct 2013 HSM-36: Oct 2013-present	Homeport MCAS Kanehoe Bay Expeditionary Squadron
HSM-40	Airwolves	MH-60R	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic	HSL-40: 4 Oct 1985-1 Nov 2009 HSM-40: 1 Nov 2009-present	Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NS Mayport
HSM-41	Seahawks	MH-60R	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSL-41: 21 Jan 1983-8 Dec 2005 HSM-41: 8 Dec 2005-present	Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS North Island
HSM-46	Grandmasters	MH-60R	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic	HSL-46: 7 Apr 1988-2012 HSM-46: 2012-present	Homeport NS Mayport Expeditionary Squadron
HSM-48	Vipers	MH-60R	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic	HSL-48: 7 Sep 1989-May 2014 HSM-48: May 2014-present	Homeport NS Mayport Expeditionary Squadron
HSM-49	Scorpions	MH-60R	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSL-49: 23 Mar 1990-Apr 2015 HSM-49: Apr 2015-present	Homeport NAS North Island Expeditionary Squadron
HSM-51	Warlords	MH-60R	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSL-51: 1 Oct 1991-Mar 2013 HSM-51: Mar 2013-present	Forward deployed to NAF Atsugi Japan Expeditionary Squadron
HSM-60	Jaguars	MH-60R	Commander, Maritime Support Wing	Commander, Maritime Support Wing	HSL-60: 1 Apr 2001-Jul 2015 HSM-60: Jul 2015-present	U S Navy Reserve Squadron Homeport NAS Jacksonville Expeditionary Squadron
HSM-70	Spartans	MH-60R	Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic	HSM-70: 1 Mar 2008-present	Homeport NAS Jacksonville
HSM-71	Raptors	MH-60R	Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSM-71: 1 Jan 2007-present	Homeport NAS North Island
HSM-72	Proud Warriors	MH-60R	Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic	HSL-42: 5 Oct 1984-Jan 2013 HSM-72: Jan 2013-present	Homeport NAS Jacksonville
HSM-73	Battle Cats	MH-60R	Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSL-43: 5 Oct 1984-Feb 2012 HSM-73: Feb 2012-present	Homeport NAS North Island
HSM-74	Swamp Fox	MH-60R	Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Atlantic	HSL-44: 21 Aug 1986-Jun 2011 HSM-74: Jun 2011-present	Homeport NAS Jacksonville
HSM-75	Wolfpack	MH-60R	Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSL-45: 3 Oct 1986-Feb 2011 HSM-75: Feb 2011-present	Homeport NAS North Island
HSM-77	Saberhawks	MH-60R	Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSL-47: 25 Sep 1987-1 Feb 2009 HSM-77: 1 Feb 2009-present	Forward deployed to NAF Atsugi (First LAMPS squadron to deploy aboard a carrier)^[316]
HSM-78	Blue Hawks	MH-60R	Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSM-78: 1 Mar 2012-present	Homeport NAS North Island
HSM-79	Griffins	MH-60R	Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN	Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific	HSM-79: 2 Jun 2016-present	Homeport NAS North Island

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	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	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
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^ Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
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^ 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
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^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
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^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6
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^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
^ ^a ^b "Category:Anti-Submarine Squadron 27 (United States Navy) - Wikimedia Commons". commons.wikimedia.org. Retrieved 6 June 2017.
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^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)
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^ 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
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^ 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
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^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1977 pg 15
^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1977 pg 15
^ Naval Aviation News March-April 2000 pg 9
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^ Naval Aviation News November-December 1992 pg 7
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^ 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
^ Naval Aviation News July 1975 pg 8
^ 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
^ Naval Aviation News July 1965 pg 2
^ Naval Aviation News May 1957 pg 1
^ Naval Aviation News Nov 1957 pg 29
^ Naval Aviation News Nov 1957 pg 29
^ Naval Aviation News Feb 59 pg 10
^ Naval Aviation News Sep 1962 pg 13
^ Naval Aviation News Apr 1960 pg 38
^ http://www.willyvictor.com/pacific_barrier/pacbar_1.html
^ Naval Aviation News Apr 1960 pg 38
^ Naval Aviation News July 1965 pg 2
^ Naval Aviation News May 1957 pg 1
^ Naval Aviation News Feb 1962 pg 8
^ 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
^ Naval Aviation News, March 1969
^ 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
^ Stewart, Joshua. "New squadron to deploy, train unmanned helicopter pilots." Navy Times. 30 August 2012.
^ https://www.helis.com/database/sqd/1251/
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^ 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}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
^ http://www.gao.gov/assets/250/243745.pdf
^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G
^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G
^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App4
^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol II App 7
^ 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/.
^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
^ "E-6B Airborne Command Post (ABNCP)". United States Strategic Command. Archived from the original on 9 January 2009.
^ 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 American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 1 pg13
^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4
^ Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4
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^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G
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^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
^ ^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.
^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
^ "Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, Pacific COMHELSEACOMBATWINGPAC". Global Security.
^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
^ "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.
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^ "Helicopter Training Squadron 8". Global Security.
^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
^ OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2
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[1] NAVADMIN 153/08 dated 30 May 2008

[2] NAVADMIN 092/05

[3] Rotor Review, winter 2019 issue #143, page 70

[4] MILPERSMAN article 1220-020 dtd 9 Feb 2019

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[auto6-30] Naval Aviation News Sep/Oct 1997 pg22

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[33] Naval Aviation News Feb 1960 pg10

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[56] Naval Aviation News November 1974 pg 29

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[58] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 9

[59] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons chap 1 pg 13

[Naval_Aviation_Squadrons_Vol_I_pp_4-60] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 4

[Naval_Aviation_Squadrons_Vol_I_pp_6-61] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6

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[75] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2

[76] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2

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[88] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 3

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[101] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[104] Grossnick 1995, Chapter 6 pp.309-313

[105] Grossnick 1995, Chapter 6 pp.309-313

[106] Grossnick 1995, Chapter 6 pp.314-316

[107] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6

[108] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 4

[110] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[111] ttp://www.seaforces.org/usnair/VAW/Carrier-Airborne-Early-Warning-Squadron-33.htm

[112] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6

[113] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6

[114] OPNAVINST 5030.4G

[115] OPNAVINST 5030.4G

[116] OPNAVINST 5030.4G

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[118] OPNAVINST 5030.4G

[119] OPNAVINST 5030.4G

[120] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, chap 4

[121] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6

[122] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, chap 4

[123] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, chap 4

[124] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6

[125] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, chap 4

[126] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6

[127] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6

[128] Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3

[129] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6

[131] Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3

[132] Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3

[133] Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3

[134] Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3

[135] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[136] ttp://www.seaforces.org/usnair/VAW/Carrier-Airborne-Early-Warning-Squadron-33.htm

[137] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 6

[138] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[139] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[140] ttp://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm

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[142] ttp://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm

[143] ttp://www.seaforces.org/usnair/VAW/Carrier-Airborne-Early-Warning-Squadron-111.htm

[144] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[145] ttp://www.seaforces.org/usnair/VAW/Carrier-Airborne-Early-Warning-Squadron-207.htm

[146] ttp://vaw-vrcreadyroom.org/squadrons/

[147] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons, Volume-1, Chapter 1: The evolution of aircraft class and squadron designation systems

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[158] ttp://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm

[OPNAVINST_5030.4G_Encl_2-159] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[162] ttp://www.utron1.itgo.com/vc-1_history1.htm

[163] ttp://www.crusader.gaetanmarie.com/units/usnavy/VC-2%20Blue%20Falcons.htm

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[167] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[168] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[169] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[172] Grossnick 1995, Chapter 6 pp.309-313

[173] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[174] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[175] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 1

[176] ttps://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/fighter-squadron-lineage.html

[178] ttps://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/fighter-squadron-lineage.html

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[188] ttp://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm

[189] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[190] ttp://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm

[191] ttp://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm

[192] ttp://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm

[193] ttp://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm

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[195] ttp://www.vfa2.navy.mil/flyingchiefs.htm

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[201] Naval Aviation News June 1958 pg 22

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[207] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[208] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[209] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[212] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[215] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[216] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

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[219] Naval Aviation News Feb 1961 pg 17

[220] Naval Aviation News July 1975 pg 12

[221] Naval Aviation News July 1975 pg 8

[222] Naval Aviation News Apr 1963 pg 14

[223] Naval Aviation News May 1967 pg 2

[224] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons, Vol I Chapter 6 pp.309-313

[225] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons, Vol I Chapter 6 pp.314-316

[226] Naval Aviation News Feb 1961 pg 15

[227] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

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[233] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9

[234] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9

[235] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9

[236] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9

[237] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9

[238] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[239] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[240] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[241] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[242] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[243] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 11

[244] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 11

[245] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 11

[246] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 11

[247] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[250] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[251] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[252] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6

[253] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[254] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6

[255] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 6

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[262] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

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[264] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[265] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[266] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[267] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[268] Dictionary of Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chapter 1, pg 10

[269] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4

[272] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9

[274] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9

[276] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[279] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[280] ttp://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm

[281] Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10

[282] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4

[283] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4

[285] Naval Aviation News Feb 1977 pg 15

[286] Naval Aviation News Feb 1977 pg 15

[287] Naval Aviation News March-April 2000 pg 9

[288] Naval Aviation News November-December 1992 pg 7

[289] Naval Aviation News November-December 1992 pg 7

[290] Naval Aviation News July-August 1992 pg 6

[291] Naval Aviation News June 1960 pg 15

[292] Naval Aviation News July 1964 pg 25

[293] Naval Aviation News March 1977 pg 3

[294] Naval Aviation News June 1960 pg 15

[295] ttp://www.vpnavy.com/vt30_shipmates.html

[296] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[299] ttp://www.utron1.itgo.com/vc-1_history1.htm

[300] ttp://www.crusader.gaetanmarie.com/units/usnavy/VC-2%20Blue%20Falcons.htm

[301] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[302] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl (2)

[303] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons, Vol I App 4

[305] ttp://www.willyvictor.com/History/VW-1/VW1_hist.html

[306] Naval Aviation News July 1971 pg 4

[307] ttp://www.willyvictor.com/History/VW-1/VW1_hist.html

[308] Naval Aviation News Nov 1963 pg 22

[309] ttp://www.willyvictor.com/History/ColdWar.html

[310] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol II app 7

[311] ttp://www.willyvictor.com/History/ColdWar.html

[312] ttp://vw1assoc.org/vw-3_decom_date_nears.html

[313] Naval Aviation News Feb 1961 pg 17

[314] Naval Aviation News July 1975 pg 12

[315] Naval Aviation News July 1975 pg 8

[316] Naval Aviation News Apr 1963 pg 14

[317] Naval Aviation News May 1967 pg 2

[318] Naval Aviation News May 1957 pg 1

[319] Naval Aviation News Dec 1965 pg 11

[320] Naval Aviation News Jan 1957 pg 5

[321] Naval Aviation News Apr 1960 pg 38

[322] ttp://www.willyvictor.com/pacific_barrier/pacbar_1.html

[323] Naval Aviation News Apr 1960 pg 38

[324] Naval Aviation News July 1965 pg 2

[325] Naval Aviation News May 1957 pg 1

[326] Naval Aviation News Nov 1957 pg 29

[327] Naval Aviation News Nov 1957 pg 29

[328] Naval Aviation News Feb 59 pg 10

[329] Naval Aviation News Sep 1962 pg 13

[330] Naval Aviation News Apr 1960 pg 38

[331] ttp://www.willyvictor.com/pacific_barrier/pacbar_1.html

[332] Naval Aviation News Apr 1960 pg 38

[333] Naval Aviation News July 1965 pg 2

[334] Naval Aviation News May 1957 pg 1

[335] Naval Aviation News Feb 1962 pg 8

[336] ttp://www.willyvictor.com/Pacific_Barrier/PacBar_1.html

[337] Naval Aviation News Aug 1947 pg 24

[338] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Appendix 4

[340] Naval Aviation News Aug 1947 pg 24

[341] Naval Aviation News Sept 1947 pg 1

[vx-342] Thomason, Tommy H. (23 July 2010), "VX Squadrons", U.S. Navy Aircraft History

[343] Naval Aviation News Aug 1947 pg 24

[344] ttp://www.chinalakealumni.org/VX-5.htm

[345] ttp://www.chinalakealumni.org/VX-5.htm

[346] Naval Aviation News, March 1969

[347] ttp://www.afvn.tv/ProjectJenny/history.html

[349] Naval Aviation News, March 1969

[350] ttp://www.afvn.tv/ProjectJenny/history.html

[352] ttps://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html

[353] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 4

[355] ttps://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html

[357] ttps://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html

[359] ttps://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html

[361] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 4

[363] ttps://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html

[366] ttps://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html

[367] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 4

[369] ttps://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/naval-aviation-history/insignias/naval-aviation-squadron-lineage/helicopter-squadron-lineage.html

[OPNAV_Notice_5400._14_August_2012-371] OPNAV Notice 5400. 14 August 2012

[372] Stewart, Joshua. "New squadron to deploy, train unmanned helicopter pilots." Navy Times. 30 August 2012.

[373] ttps://www.helis.com/database/sqd/1251/

[375] Naval Aviation News Sept 1947 pg 1

[376] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 3

[377] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 9

[378] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[379] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[380] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[381] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[382] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[383] OPNAVINST 5030.4G

[384] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 3

[385] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Chap 1, pg 9

[386] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, app 4

[387] "EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft". USN Fact File. United States Navy.

[388] "US Navy retires Prowler electronic attack aircraft after close to 45 years' service - IHS Jane's 360". www.janes.com. Retrieved 4 July 2015.

[391] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[392] OPNAVINST 5030.4G encl 2

[393] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6

[394] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 6

[395] Naval Aviation News May 1967, pg 3

[396] "E-2 Hawkeye early warning and control aircraft". USN Fact File. United States Navy. 5 February 2009. Retrieved 20 October 2014.

[399] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[400] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[401] A, C, and E models are single seat. B, D, and F models are two seat.

[402] "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 10 August 2014. Retrieved 4 November 2014.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)

[403] ttp://www.gao.gov/assets/250/243745.pdf

[406] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[407] OPNAVINST 5030.4G

[408] OPNAVINST 5030.4G

[410] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[411] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App4

[412] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[414] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[415] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol II App 7

[416] 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.

[417] ttp://jaxairnews.jacksonville.com/military-jax-air-news/2016-11-02/story/vup-19-commissioning-ceremony

[418] Stewart, Joshua. "UAV squadron to stand up Oct. 1; 1st since 2007." February 5, 2013. http://www.armytimes.com/article/20130205/NEWS/302050316/.

[419] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[420] "E-6B Airborne Command Post (ABNCP)". United States Strategic Command. Archived from the original on 9 January 2009.

[423] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[427] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[430] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[433] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[434] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, App 4

[435] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 1 pg13

[436] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4

[437] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Appendix 4

[439] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[440] OPNAVINST 5030.4G

[441] Naval Aviation News Aug 1947 pg 24

[442] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I, Appendix 4

[444] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[NASPR-445] "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.

[446] "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.

[447] Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4

[448] "MH-53E Sea Dragon". USN Fact File. United States Navy.

[450] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[451] "Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, Pacific COMHELSEACOMBATWINGPAC". Global Security.

[454] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[455] "MH-60R Seahawk". USN Fact File. United States Navy.

[458] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[459] London, Christina. "Navy Drone Squadron First of Its Kind."^{[permanent dead link]} NBC San Diego, 3 May 2013.

[460] 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.

[461] "Helicopter Training Squadron 8". Global Security.

[463] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[465] OPNAVINST 5030.4G Encl 2

[466] 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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User:Navalaviator84/sandbox

History of the AW Rating edit

Naval Aircrew Warfare Specialist edit

Training edit

Training Pipeline Schools edit

Position summaries edit

Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR) edit

AIRR Tactical Helicopter edit

C-2A Loadmaster edit

Naval Aircrewman (operator) edit

Previous platforms edit

See also edit

References edit

Carrier Air Wings (CVW) edit

Currently Active Carrier Air Wings edit

Disestablished Carrier Air Wings edit

Carrier Air Wings (CVW) edit

Antisubmarine Carrier Air Groups (CVSG) edit

Air Task Groups (ATG) edit

Carrier Air Groups (CVG) edit

Type and Functional Wings edit

Currently Active Type and Functional Wings edit

Disestablished Type and Functional Wings edit

Training Air Wings (TAW) edit

Currently Active Training Air Wings edit

Disestablished Training Air Wings edit

See also edit

Notes edit

References edit

Disestablished and Deactivated squadrons edit

Disestablished or Deactivated Fixed Wing (V) squadrons and designations no longer in use edit

Disestablished Attack (VA) squadrons and VA designations no longer in use edit

Disestablished Heavy Attack squadrons (VAH) and VAH designations no longer in use edit

Disestablished Reconnaissance Attack (RVAH) squadrons edit

Disestablished Tactical Aerial Refueling squadrons (VAK) edit

Disestablished Light Attack (VAL) squadrons edit

Disestablished Heavy Photographic Reconnaissance (VAP) squadrons edit

Disestablished and Deactivated Tactical Electronics Warfare squadrons (VAQ) and (VAW) and Electronic Attack squadrons (VAQ) and VAW designations no longer in use edit

Disestablished and Deactivated Carrier Airborne Early Warning squadrons (VAW) and (RVAW) and VAW designations no longer in use edit

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

Disestablished and Deactivated Composite (VC) squadrons (second use of the VC designation: 1948 to 1956) edit

Disestablished and Deactivated Fleet Composite (VC) squadrons and VC designations no longer in use (third use of the VC designation: 1965 to 2008) edit

Disestablished Composite Photographic Reconnaissance (VCP) squadrons edit

Disestablished Cruiser Scouting (VCS) squadrons edit

Disestablished Photographic (VD) squadrons edit

Disestablished Evacuation (VE) squadrons edit

Disestablished Fighter (VF) squadrons and VF designations no longer in use edit

Disestablished and Deactivated Strike Fighter (VFA) squadrons edit

Disestablished Night Fighting (VFN) squadrons edit

Disestablished Light Photographic Reconnaissance (VFP) squadrons edit

Disestablished Escort-Fighter (VGF) squadrons edit

Disestablished Escort-Scouting (VGS) squadrons edit

Disestablished Rescue (VH) Squadrons edit

Disestablished Utility or General Utility (VJ) squadrons (first use of the VJ designation: 1925 to 1946) edit

Disestablished Weather or Weather Reconnaissance (VJ) squadrons and Photographic (VJ) squadrons (second use of the VJ designation: 1952 to 1956) edit

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

Disestablished Scouting Plane or Scouting (VS) squadrons (first use of the VS designation: 1922 to 1946) edit

Disestablished and Deactivated Air Anti-Submarine and Sea Control (VS) squadrons (second use of the VS designation: 1950 to 2009) edit

Disestablished Anti-Submarine Fighter (VSF) squadrons edit

Disestablished Torpedo & Bombing and Torpedo (VT) squadrons and VT designations no longer in use (first use of the VT designation: 1922 to 1946) edit

Disestablished and Deactivated Training (VT) squadrons (second use of the VT designation: 1960 to present) edit

Disestablished Utility (VU) squadrons edit

Disestablished Airborne Early Warning (VW) squadrons and Weather Reconnaissance (VW) squadrons edit

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

Disestablished and Deactivated Antarctic Development (VXE) and Oceanographic Development (VXN) squadrons edit

Disestablished or Deactivated Helicopter (H) squadrons and designations no longer in use edit

Disestablished and Deactivated Helicopter Light Attack (HAL) squadrons edit

Disestablished and Deactivated Helicopter Combat Support (HC) squadrons and HC designations no longer in use edit

Deactivated Helicopter Combat Support (Special) (HCS) squadrons edit