List of United States Navy aircraft squadrons

List of United States Navy aircraft squadrons

This is a list of United States Navy aircraft squadrons. Deactivated or disestablished squadrons are listed in the List of Inactive United States Navy aircraft squadrons. Navy aircraft squadrons are typically composed of several aircraft (from as few as two to as many as several dozen), the officers who fly them and the men and women that maintain them. Most squadrons also have a number of other administrative support personnel. Some of the activities listed are not technically "squadrons", but they all operate U.S. Navy aircraft in some capacity.

Contents

Squadron organization

Navy squadron organizational chart.

Squadrons are typically commanded by a Commander. Second in command is the Executive Officer (XO), also a Commander. The XO typically assumes command of the squadron after approximately 15 months. There are typically four functional departments - Operations, Maintenance, Safety, and Administration - each led by a Lieutenant Commander. Within the departments are Divisions (each typically headed by a Lieutenant) and Branches (headed by a Chief Petty Officer).

Types of squadrons

Navy aircraft are classified by Type (rotary wing, fixed wing), Model (e.g. H-60), and Series (e.g., SH-60B vs HH- 60H).

Squadrons can be categorized in a number of ways: Active versus Navy Reserve, land-based versus sea-based, fixed wing versus rotary wing (helicopter) vs Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), and by mission. Unlike the USAF, the US Navy does not typically refer to other organizations (such as maintenance or medical units) as “squadrons”. An exception to this is that US Navy destroyers and submarines are administratively grouped by “squadrons”.

Active squadrons are those in the regular US Navy. Reserve squadrons are in the US Navy Reserve and are manned by reservists. For the most part, there is no way to know by the squadron's name alone whether it is an active or reserve squadron. There are Reserve elements of many Active squadrons, and active duty personnel serving in many Reserve squadrons. In general, reserve squadrons share the same missions as their active counterparts, although there are Reserve missions (e.g., Adversary and Fleet Logistics Support) that have no Active counterpart.

The US Navy has approximately 600 aircraft that are associated with particular ships. There are several hundred Navy aircraft that are capable of shipboard operations, but are not associated with a ship. The Navy also has several hundred land-based aircraft that are not capable of shipboard operations.

Squadrons are listed here by type (fixed/rotary wing) and by mission.

Squadron names

Navy aircraft squadrons can be properly referred to by three different names. The names can give an indication of the squadron’s mission and type of aircraft.

  • The ‘’’Formal name’’’ (e.g., Strike Fighter Squadron EIGHT SIX) indicates the mission.
  • The ‘’’Informal name’’’ (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”.

Fixed Wing Squadrons

Most Navy fixed wing squadron informal names start with the letter "V". A notable exception to this rule was the use of "RVAH" to denote Reconnaissance Attack Squadrons which operated the RA-5C Vigilante during the 1960's and 1970's.

Carrier Tactical Electronic Warfare

A typical Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron consists of four EA-6B Prowlers. The primary mission of the Prowler 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) are home-ported at NAS Whidbey Island. . Two exceptions are VAQ-136 (forward deployed to NAF Atsugi, Japan) and Reserve VAQ-209 based at Andrews AFB, Md [1]

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VAQ-129
Vaq-129.gif
Vikings
EA-6B
EA-18G
Fleet Replacement Squadron
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-130
Vaq-130.gif
Zappers
EA-6B
CVW-3
VAQ-131
Vaq-131.gif
Lancers
EA-6B
CVW-2
VAQ-132
Vaq-132.gif
Scorpions
EA-18G
Expeditionary
VAQ-133
Vaq-133.gif
Wizards
EA-6B
CVW-9
VAQ-134
Vaq-134.gif
Garudas
EA-6B
CVW-17
VAQ-135
VAQ-135 (Logo).jpg
Black Ravens
EA-18G
Expeditionary
VAQ-136
VAQ-136.png
Gauntlets
EA-6B
CVW-5
VAQ-137
Vaq-137.gif
Rooks
EA-6B
CVW-1
VAQ-138
VAQ-138 insignia.jpg
Yellowjackets
EA-18G
Expeditionary
VAQ-139
Vaq-139.gif
Cougars
EA-6B
CVW-14
VAQ-140
Vaq-140.gif
Patriots
EA-6B
CVW-7
VAQ-141
Vaq-141.gif
Shadowhawks
EA-18G
CVW-8
VAQ-142
VAQ142 new logo.gif
Gray Wolves
EA-6B
Expeditionary
VAQ-209
Vaq-209.gif
Star Warriors
EA-6B
Reserve Tactical Support Wing Andrews AFB

Carrier Airborne Early Warning

Each Carrier Airborne Early Warning squadron usually consists of four E-2C Hawkeyes, 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 airframes are trained for in the same Fleet Replacement Squadron.[2]

E-2C Hawkeye
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VAW-77
Nightwolves
E-2C
Reserve Tactical Support Wing
JRB New Orleans
VAW-112
Vaw-112.jpg
Golden Hawks
E-2C
CVW-9
VAW-113
Vaw-113.jpg
Black Eagles
E-2C
CVW-14
VAW-115
Vaw-115.jpg
Liberty Bells
E-2C
CVW-5
VAW-116
Vaw-116.jpg
Sun Kings
E-2C
CVW-2
VAW-117
Vaw-117.jpg
Wallbangers
E-2C
CVW-11
VAW-120
Vaw-120.gif
Grey Hawks
E-2C
C-2
Fleet Replacement Squadron
NS Norfolk
VAW-121
Vaw121s.jpg
Blue Tails
E-2C
CVW-17

NAS Norfolk
VAW-123
Vaw-123.jpg
Screwtops
E-2C
CVW-1

NAS Norfolk
VAW-124
Vaw-124.jpg
Bear Aces
E-2C
CVW-8

NAS Norfolk
VAW-125
Vaw-125.jpg
Tigertails
E-2C
CVW-7

NAS Norfolk
VAW-126
Vaw-126.jpg
Seahawks
E-2C
CVW-3

NAS Norfolk

Strike Fighter

A Strike Fighter Squadron is usually made up of ten to twelve F/A-18 Hornets or F/A-18E/F Super Hornets. The Hornet is an all-weather aircraft that is used for attack and fighter missions. In its fighter mode, the F/A-18 is used primarily as a fighter escort and for fleet air defense; in its attack mode, it is used for force projection, interdiction and close and deep air support. The F/A-18 is also used for SEAD and aerial refueling.[3]

Super Hornet

"F/A-18 Hornet strike fighter". USN Fact File. United States Navy. http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=1200&ct=1. 

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VFA-2
Vf-2.gif
Bounty Hunters
FA-18F
CVW-2

NAS Lemoore
VFA-11
Vfa-11.png
Red Rippers
FA-18F
CVW-1

NAS Oceana
VFA-14
Tophatters.jpg
Tophatters
FA-18E
CVW-9

NAS Lemoore
VFA-22
VFA-22 insignia.gif
Fighting Redcocks
FA-18F
CVW-17

NAS Lemoore
VFA-27
VFA-27insignia.jpg
Royal Maces
FA-18E
CVW-5

NAF Atsugi
VFA-31
Felix VF-31 logo.svg
Tomcatters
FA-18E
CVW-8

NAS Oceana
VFA-32
Vf32swordsmen.jpg
Swordsmen
FA-18F
CVW-3

NAS Oceana
VFA-41
Vf41blackaces.gif
Black Aces
FA-18F
CVW-9

NAS Lemoore
VFA-81
VFA-81insignia.png
Sunliners
FA-18E
CVW-17

NAS Oceana
VFA-102
Diamondbacks.jpg
Diamondbacks
FA-18F
CVW-5

NAF Atsugi
VFA-103
Vfa-103.jpg
Jolly Rogers
FA-18F
CVW-7

NAS Oceana
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VFA-105
Vfa-105.jpg
Gunslingers
FA-18E
CVW-3

NAS Oceana
VFA-106
VFA-106 insignia.jpg
Gladiators
FA-18A/B/C/D/E/F
Fleet Replacement Squadron
NAS Oceana
VFA-115
Vfa115 logo.jpg
Eagles
FA-18E
CVW-5

NAF Atsugi
VFA-122
VFA-122.gif
Flying Eagles
FA-18A/B/C/D/E/F
Fleet Replacement Squadron
NAS Lemoore
VFA-136
Vfa-136.jpg
Knighthawks
FA-18E
CVW-1

NAS Oceana
VFA-137
VFA-137 insignia.jpg
Kestrels
FA-18E
CVW-2

NAS Lemoore
VFA-143
Vf143dog.jpg
Pukin' Dogs
FA-18E
CVW-7

NAS Oceana
VFA-147
VFA-147 Argonauts.jpg
Argonauts
FA-18E
CVW-14

NAS Lemoore
VFA-154
Vf154knight.jpg
Black Knights
FA-18F
CVW-14

NAS Lemoore
VFA-195
VFA-195.JPG
Dambusters
FA-18E
CVW-5

NAF Atsugi
VFA-211
Fightingcheckmates2.jpg
Checkmates
FA-18F
CVW-1

NAS Oceana
VFA-213
Vfa-213.jpg
Black Lions
FA-18F
CVW-8

NAS Oceana

Legacy Hornet

"F/A-18 Hornet strike fighter". USN Fact File. United States Navy. http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=1200&ct=1. 

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VFA-15
Vfa15valions.jpg
Valions
FA-18C
CVW-8

NAS Oceana
VFA-25
VFA-25.jpg
Fist of the Fleet
FA-18C
CVW-14

NAS Lemoore
VFA-34
VFA-34insignia.jpg
Blue Blasters
FA-18C
CVW-2

NAS Oceana
VFA-37
Vfa-37.png
Ragin Bulls
FA-18C
CVW-3

NAS Oceana
VFA-83
Vfa 83 squadron patch.jpg
Rampagers
FA-18C
CVW-7

NAS Oceana
VFA-86
Vfa86sidewinders.gif
Sidewinders
FA-18C
CVW-11

NAS Lemoore
VFA-87
Vfa87goldenwarriors.jpg
Golden Warriors
FA-18A+
CVW-8

NAS Oceana
VFA-94
VFA-94 insignia.jpg
Mighty Shrikes
FA-18C
UDP
MCAS Iwakuni
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VFA-97
Vfa97.jpg
Warhawks
FA-18C
CVW-11

NAS Lemoore
VFA-113
Vfa113logo.gif
Stingers
FA-18C
CVW-17

NAS Lemoore
VFA-125
Vfa125.jpg
Rough Raiders
FA-18A/B/C/D
Fleet Replacement Squadron
NAS Lemoore
VFA-131
VFA-131 insignia.jpg
Wildcats
FA-18C
CVW-7

NAS Oceana
VFA-146
Vfa-146.gif
Blue Diamonds
FA-18C
CVW-9

NAS Lemoore
VFA-151
Vfa151.gif
Vigilantes
FA-18C
CVW-2

NAS Lemoore
VFA-192
Vfa192 2009 patch.jpg
Golden Dragons
FA-18C
CVW-9

NAS Lemoore

Fleet Air Reconnaissance

EP-3E Aries II

Fleet Air Reconnaissance squadrons 1 and 2 are the Navy's only land-based signals intelligence (SIGINT) reconnaissance squadrons. The 13 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. 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 3, 4, and 7 provide communications relay and strategic airborne command post missions. They 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 TACAMO ("Take Charge and Move Out") mission links the NCA with naval ballistic missile submarine forces during times of crisis. The aircraft carries a very low frequency communication system with dual trailing wire antennae. The E-6B is a dual-mission aircraft, capable of fulfilling the airborne strategic command post mission and is equipped with an airborne launch control system (ALCS), which is capable of launching U.S. land based intercontinental ballistic missiles.[4]

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VQ-1
Vq1.jpg
World Watchers
EP-3E
NAS Whidbey Island
VQ-2
Vq2.jpg
Sandemen
EP-3E
NAS Whidbey Island
VQ-3
Vq3 logo.jpg
Ironman
E-6B
Tinker AFB
VQ-4
Vq4 logo.jpg
Shadows
E-6B
Tinker AFB
VQ-7
Vq7.jpg
Roughnecks
EC-18
Training Unit, Tinker AFB

Fleet Fighter Composite

F-5s.

Fleet Fighter Composite squadrons provide adversary simulation for fleet squadrons. All VFC squadrons are from the Navy Reserve.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VFC-12
VFC12.jpg
Omars
FA-18
Reserve
NAS Oceana
VFC-13
Vfc13 insigia.jpg
Saints
F-5
Reserve
NAS Fallon
VFC-111
Vfc-111.png
Sundowners
F-5
Reserve
NAS Key West

Fleet Logistics Support

C-20.
C-37A.
C-130.
C-40A.

Fleet Logistics Support squadrons operate Navy unique airlift 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. Feet 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 sea going 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. All VR squadrons are from the Navy Reserve.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VR-1
Vr1.jpg
Star Lifters
C-20D
C-37B
Reserve
Andrews AFB
VR-46
Vr46.jpg
Eagles
C-9
Reserve
NAS Atlanta
to JRB Fort Worth in 2009
VR-48
Vr48.jpg
Capital Skyliners
C-20G
Reserve
Andrews AFB
VR-51
Vr51 insig.jpg
Windjammers
C-20G
Reserve
MCAF Kaneohe Bay
VR-52
Vr52.jpg
Taskmasters
C-9
Reserve
NAS Willow Grove
Reserve
[Relocated to McGuire AFB, NJ in Mar 2011]
VR-53
Vr53.gif
Capital Express
C-130
Reserve
Andrews AFB
VR-54
Vr54.jpg
Revelers
C-130
Reserve
JRB New Orleans
VR-55
Vr55.jpg
Minutemen
C-130
Reserve
NAS Point Mugu
VR-56
Vr56.jpg
Globemasters
C-9
Reserve
NAS Oceana
VR-57
Vr57 insig.jpg
Conquistadors
C-40
Reserve
NAS North Island
VR-58
Vr58 insig.jpg
Sunseekers
C-40
Reserve
NAS Jacksonville
VR-59
Vr59b&w.jpg
Lone Star Express
C-40
Reserve
JRB Fort Worth
VR-61
Vr-61.jpg
Islanders
C-9
Reserve
NAS Whidbey Island
VR-62
Vr62 insig.jpg
Nomads
C-130
Reserve
NAS Jacksonville
VR-64
VR-64.jpg
Condors
C-130
Formerly VP-64, Redesignated 18 September 2004
Reserve
NAS Willow Grove
Reserve
[Relocated to McGuire AFB, NJ in Mar 2011]

Carrier Fleet Logistics Support

C-2A Greyhound

There are two Carrier Fleet Logistic Support squadrons - 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 aircraft carrier. 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.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VRC-30
Vrc30 logo.jpg
Providers
NAS North Island
VRC-30 Det 1
Logo det1.gif
Providers
C-2
CVW-14
VRC-30 Det 2
Logo det2.gif
Providers
C-2
CVW-2
VRC-30 Det 3
Logo det3.gif
Providers
C-2
CVW-11
VRC-30 Det 4
Logo det4.gif
Providers
C-2
CVW-9
VRC-30 Det 5
Logo det5.gif
Providers
C-2
CVW-5
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VRC-40 Det 1
Vrc-40.jpg
Rawhides
C-2
CVW-3
VRC-40 Det 2
Vrc-40.jpg
Rawhides
C-2
CVW-1
VRC-40 Det 3
Vrc-40.jpg
Rawhides
C-2
CVW-7
VRC-40 Det 4
Vrc-40.jpg
Rawhides
C-2
CVW-17
VRC-40 Det 5
Vrc-40.jpg
Rawhides
C-2
CVW-8

Patrol

P-3C Orion

Maritime patrol aircraft are used primarily for reconnaissance, anti-surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VP-1
Vp-1.jpg
Screaming Eagles
P-3C
NAS Whidbey Island
VP-4
Vp-4 logo.jpg
Skinny Dragons
P-3C
MCAS Kaneohe Bay
VP-5
Vp-5 insig.jpg
Mad Foxes
P-3C
NAS Jacksonville
VP-8
Vp-8 logo.jpg
Tigers
P-3C
NAS Jacksonville
VP-9
Vp9.jpg
Golden Eagles
P-3C
MCAS Kaneohe Bay
VP-10
VP-10 patch.jpg
Lancers
P-3C
NAS Jacksonville
VP-16
Vp16.jpg
War Eagles
P-3C
NAS Jacksonville
VP-26
Vp26 insig.jpg
Tridents
P-3C
NAS Jacksonville
VP-30
Vp30.jpg
Pro’s Nest
P-3C
FRS
NAS Jacksonville
VP-40
Vp40 insig.jpg
Fighting Marlins
P-3C
NAS Whidbey Island
VP-45
Vp45.jpg
Pelicans
P-3C
NAS Jacksonville
VP-46
VP-46.png
Grey Knights
P-3C
NAS Whidbey Island
VP-47
Vp47 insig.jpg
Golden Swordsmen
P-3C
MCAS Kaneohe Bay
VP-62
VP-62.png
Broadarrows
P-3C
Reserve
NAS Jacksonville
VP-69
Vp69 insig.jpg
Totems
P-3C
Reserve
NAS Whidbey Island
VPU-1
[1]
Old Buzzards
P-3C
NAS Jacksonville
VPU-2
[2]
Wizards
P-3C
MCAS Kaneohe Bay

Training

There are three types of fixed wing training squadrons - Primary, Intermediate, and Advanced - that train Student Naval Aviators to become United States Naval Aviators and Naval Flight Officers in the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Some United States Air Force pilots are also trained in Navy squadrons. Likewise, some Student Naval Aviators receive some of their training at USAF training squadrons. Navy training aircraft are typically painted orange and white.

T-34 Turbo Mentor
T-45 Goshawk
T-6A Texan II
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VT-2
VT-2.png
Doerbirds
T-34
Primary
NAS Whiting Field
VT-3
Vt3 insig.jpg
Red Knights
T-6B
Primary
NAS Whiting Field
VT-4
Vt-4 patch.jpg
Warbucks
T-6A
T-39
T-1A
NFO Primary/Intermediate
NAS Pensacola
VT-6
Vt6 insig.jpg
Shooters
T-6B
Primary
NAS Whiting Field
VT-7
Vt7 insig.jpg
Eagles
T-45
Intermediate Tailhook, Advanced Jet
NAS Meridian
VT-9
Vt9.gif
Tigers
T-45
Intermediate Tailhook, Advanced Jet
NAS Meridian
VT-10
TRARON10.jpg
Wildcats
T-6A
T-1A
NFO Primary/Intermediate
NAS Pensacola
VT-21
Vt21a insig.jpg
Redhawks
T-45
Intermediate Tailhook, Advanced Jet
NAS Kingsville
VT-22
VT-22 logo.png
Golden Eagles
T-45
Intermediate Tailhook, Advanced Jet
NAS Kingsville
VT-27
Vt27a insig.jpg
Boomers
T-34
Primary
NAS Corpus Christi
VT-28
VT-28.png
Rangers
T-34
Primary
NAS Corpus Christi
VT-31
Vt31 b insig.jpg
Wise Owls
T-44
Advanced Multi-engine
NAS Corpus Christi
VT-35
VT-35.png
Stingrays
TC-12
Advanced Multi-engine
NAS Corpus Christi
VT-86
VT-86 logo.png
Sabrehawks
T-39
T-45C
NFO Advanced Jet
NAS Pensacola

Other

Some of these organizations are not technically "squadrons", however they have custody of, and routinely fly navy aircraft.

Blue Angels
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron
Blue Angels Insignia.svg
Blue Angels
FA-18
C-130
NAS Pensacola
Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center
Nsawc logo.jpg
Strike U
Topgun
Topdome
FA-18
F-16
E-2C
MH-60S
NAS Fallon
Strike Fighter Weapons School Pacific
Strike Fighter Weapons School Pacific.gif
T-34 Mentor
NAS Lemoore
Pacific Missile Range Facility
S-3B
Barking Sands

Helicopter Squadrons

Helo Master Plan

US Navy helicopters are used for antisubmarine warfare, antisurface warfare, mine warfare, combat search and rescue, special operations, and vertical replenishment missions. The USN helicopter community, in accordance with the "Helicopter Master Plan", is currently undergoing a transformation to reduce costs and infrastructure. The plan calls for expanding warfighting capabilities, modernizing the force, necking down from eight to three aircraft types, and consolidating force structure where possible. This plan is also leading to the renaming of many squadrons.[5] All Navy helicopter (or rotary wing) squadrons' informal names start with the letter "H".

Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron

The Mine Countermeasures Squadrons are each made up of 16 MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters. The primary mission of the Sea Dragon is Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM). The MH-53 can operate from carriers and other warships and is capable of towing a variety of mine hunting/sweeping countermeasures systems.[6] 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. According to the Navy's Helo Master Plan, the MH-60S is being considered for the Airborne Mine Countermeasures mission.

An MH-53 delivers aid in Sumatra following the 2004 Tsunami.
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HM-14
HM-14 Insignia.jpg
Vanguard
MH-53E
HM-15
HM-15 Insignia.jpg
Blackhawks
MH-53E

Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadrons

Helicopter Anti-Submarine squadrons are composite squadrons usually made up of four to six SH-60F Seahawks and two to four HH-60H Seahawks. Both Aircraft are Carrier-Based. The SH-60Fs primary mission is Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) defense of the inner zone, which includes detection, classification and destruction of hostile submarines. HH-60Hs primary mission is combat search and rescue (CSAR), Naval Special Warfare support (NSW) and anti-surface warfare (ASUW).[7]

A SH-60F assigned to HS-11 releases flares
A HH-60H from HS-11 prepares to take off with an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit in tow.
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HS-4
Hs4.jpg
Black Knights
SH-60F
HH-60H
CVW-14
HS-5
Hs5.jpg
Nightdippers
SH-60F
HH-60H
CVW-7
HS-10
Hs10.jpg
Warhawks
SH-60F
HH-60H
FRS
NAS North Island
HS-11
Hs11.jpg
Dragonslayers
SH-60F
HH-60H
CVW-1
HS-14
Hs14 insig.jpg
Chargers
SH-60F
HH-60H
CVW-5
NAF Atsugi
HS-15
Hs15.jpg
Red Lions
SH-60F
HH-60H
CVW-17

Helicopter Sea Combat Squadrons

The Sea Combat Squadron combines both the strike capability of the Helicopter Anti-submarine wing and the cargo capability of the Helicopter Combat Support wing into its primary mission. Over the next decade all HC and HS squadrons will transition to Sea Combat Squadrons upon receiving the MH-60S.[8]

An MH-60S Knighthawk conducts vertical replenishment (VERTREP)
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HSC-2
Hsc-2.gif
Fleet Angels
MH-60S
Formerly HC-2
Formerly HU-2
HSC-3
HSC-3.gif
Merlins
MH-60S
Formerly HC-3
HSC-6
Hs6.jpg
Indians
MH-60S
Formerly HS-6
CVW-11
HSC-7
Hs-7.jpg
Dusty Dogs
MH-60S
Formerly HS-7
CVW-3
HSC-8
HSC-8.gif
Eightballers
MH-60S
Formerly HS-8
CVW-9
HSC-9
HSC-9 Patch with transparent background.GIF
Tridents
MH-60S
Formerly HS-3
CVW-8
HSC-12
HSC-12 emblem.jpg
Golden Falcons
MH-60S
Formerly HS-2
CVW-2
HSC-21
Hsc-21.gif
Blackjacks
MH-60S
Formerly HC-11
HSC-22
HSC-22 Seaknights insignia.jpg
Sea Knights
MH-60S
NS Norfolk
HSC-23
Hsc-23.gif
Wild Cards
MH-60S
NAS North Island
HSC-25
HSC-25.gif
Island Knights
MH-60S
Formerly HC-5
HSC-26
HSC-26.gif
Chargers
MH-60S
Formerly HC-6
HSC-28
Hsc-28.gif
Dragon Whales
MH-60S
Formerly HC-8
HSC-84
Hcs-4.gif
Red Wolves
HH-60H
Formerly HCS-4
Reserve and Active
HSC-85
NEW FIREHAWK small.jpg
Fire Hawks
HH-60H
Formerly HCS-5/HC-85
Reserve and Active

Helicopter Anti-Submarine (Light) Squadrons

Anti-Submarine Light squadrons each operate between six and fifteen SH-60B LAMPS III helicopters. The SH-60Bs primary mission is to provide fully mission capable detachments aboard cruisers, destroyers, and frigates assigned to the Fleet. These detachments are an integral part of the ships weapon system, extending the ships under-sea and anti-ship warfare capabilities beyond the horizon. As of 2003 all Helicopter Anti-Submarine (Light) Squadrons are schedule to be redesignated Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadrons. This change will reflect the switch to the MH-60R Seahawk and the squadrons new multi-mission capability.[9]

A SH-60B attached to HSL-47 lowers a rescue swimmer.
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HSL-37
Hsl37.jpg
EasyRiders
SH-60B
MCBH Kaneohe
HSL-40
Hsl40.jpg
Airwolves
SH-60B
FRS
NS Mayport
HSL-42
Hsl42.jpg
Proud Warriors
SH-60B
NAS Jacksonville
HSL-43
Hsl-43.jpg
Battle Cats
SH-60B
HSL-44
Hsl44.gif
Swamp Fox
SH-60B
NAS Jacksonville
HSL-45
Hsl45.jpg
Wolfpack
SH-60B
NAS North Island
HSL-46
Hsl46.jpg
Grandmasters
SH-60B
NS Mayport
HSL-48
Hsl48.jpg
Vipers
SH-60B
HSL-49
Hsl49.jpg
Scorpions
SH-60B
HSL-51
Hsl51.jpg
Warlords
SH-60B
NAF Atsugi
HSL-60
Hsl60.jpg
Jaguars
SH-60B
Reserve
NS Mayport

Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadrons

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

Helicopter Maritime Strike squadrons operate the MH-60R Seahawk. The first operational fleet squadron to receive the Romeo is HSM-71 in fiscal year 2008. The new squadron designation was created to reflect the MH-60Rs multi-mission capabilities. Eventually all Anti-submarine (Light) squadrons will transition to the MH-60R and be redesignated HSM.[10]

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HSM-41
Hsm-41.gif
Seahawks
MH-60R
FRS
HSM-70
HSM-70 emblem.jpg
Spartans
MH-60R
CVW-8
HSM-71
HSM-71.gif
Raptors
MH-60R
CVW-9
HSM-77
HSM77 Insignia.jpg
Saberhawks
MH-60R
First LAMPS deployment aboard carrier[11]

Helicopter Training Squadrons

The United States Navy'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 international students from several allied nations. Students who successfully complete the program earn the right to wear the coveted "Wings of Gold."[12]

TH-57 training helicopter from HT-8 makes a landing aboard the Navy Helicopter Landing Trainer (HLT) IX-514
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HT-8
Ht-8.jpg
Eightballers
TH-57
NAS Whiting Field
HT-18
Ht-18.jpg
Vigilant Eagles
TH-57
NAS Whiting Field
HT-28
HT-28patch.gif
Hellions
TH-57
NAS Whiting Field

UAV Squadrons

Fleet Composite squadrons' primary missions include providing fixed wing and helicopter services to the Fleet in support of the United States and Allied operational training exercises and operating the Navy's only operational Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). This aircraft is utilized primarily in reconnaissance missions. Tactical employment of this unique asset primarily supports both Battle Group deployments and Amphibious Warfare Operations.[13]

RQ-2B Pioneer Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, assigned to Fleet Composite Squadron Six (VC-6).

Test and Evaluation

Test and Evaluation squadrons test everything from basic aircraft flying qualities to advanced aerodynamics. VX squadrons report to the Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force (OPTEVFOR).

VX-23 jets.
RQ-4A Globalhawk.
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
USN Test Pilot School
Tps.jpg
Various
NAS Patuxent River
VX-1
VX1.gif
Pioneers
P-3C
MH-60R
MH-60S
SH-60F
EP-3E
E-6B
KC-130J
E-2C
RQ-4
P-8A
Evaluation of airborne
anti-submarine warfare
and maritime anti-surface warfare
weapons
NAS Patuxent River[14]
VXS-1
Vxs-1.jpg
Warlocks
P-3
C-12
formerly NRL's Flight Support Detachment
Scientific Development
NAS Patuxent River[14]
VX-9
VX-9- logo.png
Vampires
FA-18 All Variants
EA-18G
AV-8
EA-6B
AH-1Z
UH-1Y
and other variants
Operational Weapons Test
NAWS China Lake
VX-20
VX20.gif
Force
E-2C
P-3C
C-130
C-2A
E-6B
T-34C
Force Warfare Aircraft Test
NAS Patuxent River[15]
HX-21
HX 21 Rotary wing test.jpg
Blackjack
AH-1Z
UH-1Y
MH-60R
MH-60S
MV-22B
AH-1W
UH-1N
VH-3A
CH-53E
TH-57C
SH-60F
Rotary Wing Aircraft Test
NAS Patuxent River[16]
VX-23
VX23.JPG
Saltydogs
F-35
FA-18
EA-6B
EA-18G
T-45
Strike Aircraft Test
NAS Patuxent River
VX-30
Vx-30 logo.jpg
Bloodhounds
C-130
P-3 All Variants
S-3B
FA-18
Weapons Test
NAS Point Mugu
VX-31
Vx-31 logo.jpg
Dust Devils
FA-18
EA-18G
NEA-18G
P-3
C-130
AV-8
TAV-8B
T-39
AH-1Z
UH-1Y
and other variants
Weapons Test
NAWS China Lake

See also

References

  1. ^ The EA-6B will be replaced by the EA-18G Growler. "EA-6B Prowler electronic warfare aircraft". USN Fact File. United States Navy. http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=900&ct=1. 
  2. ^ "E-2 Hawkeye early warning and control aircraft". USN Fact File. United States Navy. http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=700&ct=1. 
  3. ^ A, C, and E models are single seat. B, D, and F models are two seat.
  4. ^ "E-6B Airborne Command Post (ABNCP)". United States Strategic Command. http://www.stratcom.mil/fact_sheets/fact_acp.html. 
  5. ^ "The Helicopter Master Plan". Federation of American Scientists. http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/navy/docs/vision/helomstr.htm. 
  6. ^ "MH-53E Sea Dragon". USN Fact File. United States Navy. http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1200&tid=400&ct=1. 
  7. ^ "SH-60 Seahawk helicopter". USN Fact File. United States Navy. http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1200&tid=500&ct=1. 
  8. ^ "Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, Pacific COMHELSEACOMBATWINGPAC". Global Security. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/helseacombatwingpac.htm. 
  9. ^ "Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, Pacific". Commander Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, Pacific. Global Security. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/hslwingpac.htm. 
  10. ^ "MH-60R Seahawk". USN Fact File. United States Navy. http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1200&tid=500&ct=1. 
  11. ^ 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. http://www.history.navy.mil/nan/backissues/2000s/2005/julaug/p20-43_Year%20in%20Review%202004.pdf. 
  12. ^ "Helicopter Training Squadron 8". Global Security. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/ht-8.htm. 
  13. ^ "Fleet Composite Squadron SIX". U.S. Navy. Global Security. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/vc-6.htm. 
  14. ^ a b "Naval Air Station Patuxent River Base Guide". DCMilitary.com. Comprint Military Publications. 2008-08-12. http://www.dcmilitary.com/special_sections/sw/081206/ss_120846_31938.shtml. Retrieved 2008-12-01. 
  15. ^ "VX-20 Aircraft Platforms". Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ZERO. United States Navy. 2006-06-10. http://www.navair.navy.mil/force/AircraftPg1.htm. Retrieved 2008-12-01. [dead link]
  16. ^ Carlson, Ted (Spring 2005). "HX-21 - Blackjack". Wings of Gold (Association of Naval Aviation). http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3834/is_200504/ai_n15743379. Retrieved 2008-12-01. [dead link]

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