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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.

Squadron organization[]

Navy Squadron Organization

Navy squadron organizational chart.

Active duty 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/NATOPS, and Administration - each led by a Lieutenant Commander functioning as the Department Head. Within the departments are Divisions (each typically headed by a Lieutenant) and Branches (headed by a Lieutenant, junior grade or a Chief Petty Officer).

Reserve squadrons are also commanded by a Commander, with another Commander as the XO who will also assume command after approximately 15 months. However, reserve squadron demographics are typically older and more senior in rank than their active duty squadron counterparts. Department Heads in reserve squadrons are typically senior Lieutenant Commanders, although some may be recently promoted Commanders. Where this difference in maturity level becomes more apparent is at the Division Officer level. Since most officers in reserve squadrons previously served on active duty in the Regular Navy in a flying status for eight to ten or more years, they are typically already Lieutenant Commanders, or achieve that rank shortly after transferring to the Navy Reserve. As a result, Lieutenants are a minority and Lieutenants, junior grade, practically non-existent in reserve squadrons. As a result, Divisions are typically headed by Lieutenant Commanders and Branches by Lieutenants, Senior Chief Petty Officers or Chief Petty Officers.

Types of squadrons[]

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

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, US Army, and USMC, 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 a combination of full-time and part-time 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.

At any one time, the US Navy has approximately 600 aircraft that are associated with particular ships.[citation needed] There are also several thousand additional Navy aircraft that are capable of shipboard operations, but are not associated with a ship.[citation needed] The Navy also has several hundred land-based aircraft that are not capable of shipboard operations.[citation needed]

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.
    • A subset of the formal name is a Navy acronym format in capital letters, e.g., STKFITRON EIGHT SIX
  • 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 1960s and 1970s.

Carrier Tactical Electronic Warfare[]

A typical Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron consists of four 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) are home-ported at NAS Whidbey Island. . Two exceptions are VAQ-141 (forward deployed to NAF Atsugi, Japan) and Reserve VAQ-209 based at Andrews AFB, Md [1]

Cobrachen Ea-18g

EA-18G Growler

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VAQ-129 File:Vaq-129.gif Vikings EA-6B EA-18G Fleet Replacement Squadron
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-130 File:Vaq-130.gif Zappers EA-18G CVW-3
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-131 File:Vaq-131.gif Lancers EA-6B CVW-2
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-132 File:Vaq-132.gif Scorpions EA-18G Expeditionary
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-133 File:Vaq-133.gif Wizards EA-6B CVW-9
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-134 File:Vaq-134.gif Garudas EA-6B CVW-17
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-135 VAQ-135 (Logo) Black Ravens EA-18G Expeditionary
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-136 VAQ-136 Gauntlets EA-18G Transition
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-137 File:Vaq-137.gif Rooks EA-18G CVW-1
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-138 VAQ-138 insignia Yellowjackets EA-18G Expeditionary
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-139 File:Vaq-139.gif Cougars EA-18G CVW-14
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-140 File:Vaq-140.gif Patriots EA-6B CVW-7
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-141 File:Vaq-141.gif Shadowhawks EA-18G CVW-5
NAF Atsugi
VAQ-142 VAQ142 new logo Gray Wolves EA-6B CVW-11
NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-209 File:Vaq-209.gif Star Warriors EA-6B Reserve Tactical Support Wing

Andrews AFB

Carrier Airborne Early Warning[]

VAW113

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 aircraft are trained for in the same Fleet Replacement Squadron.[2]

E-2C Landing

E-2C Hawkeye

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VAW-112 Vaw-112 Golden Hawks E-2C CVW-9
NAS Pt. Mugu
VAW-113 Vaw-113 Black Eagles E-2C CVW-2
NAS Pt. Mugu
VAW-115 Vaw-115 Liberty Bells E-2C CVW-5
NAF Atsugi
VAW-116 Vaw-116 Sun Kings E-2C CVW-17
NAS Pt. Mugu
VAW-117 Vaw-117 Wallbangers E-2C CVW-11
NAS Pt. Mugu
VAW-120 Vaw-120 Grey Hawks E-2C
C-2
Fleet Replacement Squadron
NS Norfolk
VAW-121 Vaw121s Blue Tails E-2C CVW-7
NS Norfolk
VAW-123 Vaw-123 Screwtops E-2C CVW-1
NS Norfolk
VAW-124 Vaw-124 Bear Aces E-2C CVW-8
NS Norfolk
VAW-125 Vaw-125 Tigertails E-2C CVW-17
NS Norfolk
VAW-126 Vaw-126 Seahawks E-2C CVW-3
NS 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.[citation needed] 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]

F/A-18E/F 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 Fighter Squadron 2 (US Navy) insignia 1973 Bounty Hunters FA-18F CVW-2
NAS Lemoore
VFA-11 Vfa-11 Red Rippers FA-18F CVW-1
NAS Oceana
VFA-14 Strike Fighter Squadron 14 (US Navy) insignia 2001 Tophatters FA-18E CVW-9
NAS Lemoore
VFA-22 VFA-22 insignia Fighting Redcocks FA-18F CVW-17
NAS Lemoore
VFA-25 VFA-25 Fist of the Fleet FA-18E CVW-9
NAS Lemoore
VFA-27 VFA-27insignia Royal Maces FA-18E CVW-5
NAF Atsugi
VFA-31 Felix VF-31 logo Tomcatters FA-18E CVW-8
NAS Oceana
VFA-32 Vf32swordsmen Swordsmen FA-18F CVW-3
NAS Oceana
VFA-41 Vf41blackaces Black Aces FA-18F CVW-9
NAS Lemoore
VFA-81 VFA-81insignia Sunliners FA-18E CVW-17
NAS Oceana
VFA-86 Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (US Navy) patch 1987 Sidewinders FA-18E CVW-2
NAS Lemoore
VFA-102 Diamondbacks Diamondbacks FA-18F CVW-5
NAF Atsugi
VFA-103 Fighter Squadron 103 (US Navy) insignia 1995 Jolly Rogers FA-18F CVW-7
NAS Oceana
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VFA-105 Vfa-105 Gunslingers FA-18E CVW-3
NAS Oceana
VFA-106 VFA-106 insignia Gladiators FA-18A/B/C/D/E/F Fleet Replacement Squadron
NAS Oceana
VFA-115 Vfa115 logo Eagles FA-18E CVW-5
NAF Atsugi
VFA-122 Strike Fighter Squadron 122 (US Navy) insignia 1999 Flying Eagles FA-18A/B/C/D/E/F Fleet Replacement Squadron
NAS Lemoore
VFA-136 Strike Fighter Squadron 136 (US Navy) insignia 2015 Knighthawks FA-18E CVW-1
NAS Oceana
VFA-137 VFA-137 insignia Kestrels FA-18E CVW-2
NAS Lemoore
VFA-143 Vf143dog Pukin' Dogs FA-18E CVW-7
NAS Oceana
VFA-147 VFA-147 Argonauts Argonauts FA-18E CVW-11
NAS Lemoore
VFA-151 Vfa151 Vigilantes FA-18E CVW-9
NAS Lemoore
VFA-154 Fighter Squadron 154 (US Navy) patch Black Knights FA-18F CVW-11
NAS Lemoore
VFA-195 VFA-195 Dambusters FA-18E CVW-5
NAF Atsugi
VFA-211 Strike Fighter Squadron 211 (US Navy) insignia 2015 Checkmates FA-18F CVW-1
NAS Oceana
VFA-213 Strike Fighter Squadron 213 (US Navy) insignia 2015 Black Lions FA-18F CVW-8
NAS Oceana

F/A-18C 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 Valions FA-18C CVW-8
NAS Oceana
VFA-34 VFA-34insignia Blue Blasters FA-18C CVW-2
NAS Oceana
VFA-37 Vfa-37 Ragin Bulls FA-18C CVW-3
NAS Oceana
VFA-83 Vfa 83 squadron patch Rampagers FA-18C CVW-7
NAS Oceana
VFA-87 Vfa87goldenwarriors Golden Warriors FA-18C CVW-8
NAS Oceana
VFA-94 VFA-94 insignia Mighty Shrikes FA-18C CVW-17
MCAS Iwakuni
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VFA-97 Vfa97 Warhawks FA-18C CVW-9
NAS Lemoore
VFA-113 Vfa113logo Stingers FA-18C CVW-17
NAS Lemoore
VFA-131 VFA-131 insignia Wildcats FA-18C CVW-7
NAS Oceana
VFA-146 File:Vfa-146.gif Blue Diamonds FA-18C CVW-11
NAS Lemoore
VFA-192 Vfa192 2009 patch Golden Dragons FA-18C CVW-9
NAS Lemoore

F-35 Lightning II[]

First F-35C Lightning II of VFA-101 lands at Eglin AFB 2013

VFA-101 received its first F-35C at Eglin AFB, 22 June 2013.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VFA-101 Fighter Squadron 101 (United States Navy - insignia) Grim Reapers F-35C Fleet Replacement Squadron
Eglin Air Force Base

Fleet Air Reconnaissance[]

EP-3E DN-SD-07-09322

EP-3E Aries II

Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron ONE is the Navy's only land-based signals intelligence (SIGINT) reconnaissance squadron. 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 THREE and FOUR 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]

Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron SEVEN is the E-6B Fleet Replacement Squadron, providing initial and requalification training for pilots, aircrews, and maintainers. In addition to operating E-6B's on loan from VQ-3 and VQ-4, VQ-7 also leases Boeing 737 aircraft, with which it conducts initial pilot training.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VQ-1 Vq1 World Watchers EP-3E NAS Whidbey Island
VQ-3 Vq3 logo Ironman E-6B Tinker AFB
VQ-4 Vq4 logo Shadows E-6B Tinker AFB
VQ-7 Vq7 Roughnecks E-6B
B737
E-6B Fleet Replacement Squadron
Formerly Naval Training Support Unit (NTSU)
Tinker AFB

Fleet Fighter Composite[]

F-5

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 Omars FA-18 C Reserve
NAS Oceana
VFC-13 Vfc13 insigia Saints F-5 Reserve
NAS Fallon
VFC-111 Vfc-111 Sundowners F-5 Reserve
NAS Key West

Fleet Logistics Support[]

C-20 Gulfstream

C-20.

Navy C-130

C-130.

C-40A Clipper

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. 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. All VR squadrons are from the Navy Reserve.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VR-1 Vr1 Star Lifters C-20D
C-37B
Reserve
Andrews AFB
VR-46 Vr46 Eagles C-9 Reserve
NAS Fort Worth
(Deactivation scheduled for Summer 2012)
VR-48 Vr48 Capital Skyliners C-20G Reserve
Andrews AFB
VR-51 Vr51 insig Windjammers C-20G Reserve
MCAS Kaneohe Bay
VR-52 Vr52 Taskmasters C-9 Reserve
McGuire AFB
(Relocated from NAS Willow Grove in Mar 2011)
VR-53 Vr53 Capital Express C-130T Reserve
Andrews AFB
VR-54 Vr54 Revelers C-130T Reserve
NAS New Orleans
VR-55 Vr55 Minutemen C-130T Reserve
NAS Point Mugu
VR-56 Vr56 Globemasters C-40 Reserve
NAS Oceana
VR-57 Vr57 insig Conquistadors C-40 Reserve
NAS North Island
VR-58 Vr58 insig Sunseekers C-40 Reserve
NAS Jacksonville
VR-59 Vr59b&w Lone Star Express C-40 Reserve
NAS Fort Worth
VR-61 Vr-61 Islanders C-9 Reserve
NAS Whidbey Island
VR-62 VR-62 NOMADS Logo Nomads C-130T Reserve
NAS Jacksonville
(Relocated from NAS Brunswick in 2009)
VR-64 VR-64 Condors C-130T Reserve
McGuire AFB
(Relocated from NAS Willow Grove in Mar 2011)
Formerly VP-64 – redesignated 18 Sep 2004

Carrier Fleet Logistics Support[]

C-2A DN-SC-89-09037

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 Providers NAS North Island
VRC-30 Det 1 Logo det1 Hustlers C-2 CVW-14
VRC-30 Det 2 Logo det2 Roughnecks C-2 CVW-2
VRC-30 Det 3 Logo det3 Crusaders C-2 CVW-11
VRC-30 Det 4 Logo det4 Pure Horsepower C-2 CVW-9
VRC-30 Det 5 Logo det5 Providers C-2 CVW-5
Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VRC-40 Det 1 Vrc-40 Rawhides C-2 CVW-3
VRC-40 Det 2 Vrc-40 Rawhides C-2 CVW-1
VRC-40 Det 3 Vrc-40 Rawhides C-2 CVW-7
VRC-40 Det 4 Vrc-40 Rawhides C-2 CVW-17
VRC-40 Det 5 Vrc-40 Rawhides C-2 CVW-8

Patrol[]

Orion.usnavy

P-3C Orion

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

P 8A touches down at Pax River

P-8A Poseidon.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
VP-1 Vp-1 Screaming Eagles P-3C NAS Whidbey Island
VP-4 Vp-4 logo Skinny Dragons P-3C MCAS Kaneohe Bay
VP-5 Vp-5 insig Mad Foxes P-3C
P-8A
NAS Jacksonville
VP-8 Vp-8 logo Tigers P-3C NAS Jacksonville
VP-9 Insignia of Patrol Squadron 9 (United States Navy) Golden Eagles P-3C MCAS Kaneohe Bay
VP-10 Vp10 insig Lancers P-3C NAS Jacksonville
VP-16 Vp16 War Eagles P-8A NAS Jacksonville
VP-26 Vp26 insig Tridents P-3C NAS Jacksonville
VP-30 Vp30 Pro's Nest P-3C
P-8A
FRS
NAS Jacksonville
VP-40 Vp40 insig Fighting Marlins P-3C NAS Whidbey Island
VP-45 Vp45 Pelicans P-3C
P-8A
NAS Jacksonville
VP-46 VP-46 Grey Knights P-3C NAS Whidbey Island
VP-47 Vp47 insig Golden Swordsmen P-3C MCAS Kaneohe Bay
VP-62 VP-62 Broadarrows P-3C Reserve
NAS Jacksonville
VP-69 Vp69 insig Totems P-3C Reserve
NAS Whidbey Island
VPU-2 Vpu-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-34C Turbo Mentor

T-34C Turbo Mentor

T-45A Goshawk 04

T-45 Goshawk

T-6A Texan II

T-6A Texan II

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

Blueangelsformationpd

Blue Angels

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

Helicopter Squadrons[]

US Navy Helo Master Plan

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.

HM-15 delivers aid to Sumatra following the 2004 Tsunami

An MH-53 delivers aid in Sumatra following the 2004 Tsunami.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HM-14 HM-14 Insignia Vanguard MH-53E NS Norfolk
HM-15 HM-15 Insignia Blackhawks MH-53E NS Norfolk

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]

US Navy 060511-N-0119G-001 An SH-60F Seahawk helicopter assigned to the Dragonslayers of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Eleven (HS-11) releases flares

A SH-60F assigned to HS-11 releases flares

Web 060923-N-9742R-191

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-5 File:Hs5.jpg Nightdippers SH-60F
HH-60H
CVW-7
NS Norfolk
HS-11 File:Hs11.jpg Dragonslayers SH-60F
HH-60H
CVW-1
NAS Jacksonville

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]

MH-60S Sea Hawk

An MH-60S Knighthawk conducts vertical replenishment (VERTREP)

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HSC-2 File:Hsc-2.gif Fleet Angels MH-60S FRS
Formerly HC-2
Formerly HU-2
NS Norfolk
HSC-3 File:HSC-3.gif Merlins MH-60S FRS
Formerly HC-3
NAS North Island
HSC-4 File:Hs4.jpg Black Knights MH-60S Formerly HS-4
CVW-2
NAS North Island
HSC-6 File:Hs6.jpg Indians MH-60S Formerly HS-6
CVW-11
NAS North Island
HSC-7 Hs-7 Dusty Dogs MH-60S Formerly HS-7
CVW-3
NS Norfolk
HSC-8 HSC-8 Eightballers MH-60S Formerly HS-8
CVW-9
NAS North Island
HSC-9 HSC-9 Patch with transparent background Tridents MH-60S Formerly HS-3
CVW-8
NS Norfolk
HSC-12 File:HSC-12 emblem.jpg Golden Falcons MH-60S Formerly HS-2
CVW-5
NAF Atsugi
HSC-14 Hs14 insig Chargers MH-60S Formerly HS-14
NAS North Island
HSC-15 HSC-15 Red Lions Crest Red Lions MH-60S Formerly HS-15
CVW-17
NAS North Island
HSC-21 File:Hsc-21.gif Blackjacks MH-60S Formerly HC-11
Expeditionary
NAS North Island
HSC-22 HSC-22 Seaknights insignia Sea Knights MH-60S Expeditionary
NS Norfolk
HSC-23 File:Hsc-23.gif Wild Cards MH-60S Expeditionary
NAS North Island
HSC-25 File:HSC-25.gif Island Knights MH-60S Formerly HC-5
Expeditionary
Andersen AFB
HSC-26 File:HSC-26.gif Chargers MH-60S Formerly HC-6
Expeditionary
NS Norfolk
HSC-28 File:Hsc-28.gif Dragon Whales MH-60S Formerly HC-8
Expeditionary
NS Norfolk
HSC-84 Red Wolfes logo Red Wolves HH-60H Formerly HCS-4
Reserve and Active
NS Norfolk
HSC-85 NEW FIREHAWK small Fire Hawks HH-60H Formerly HCS-5/HC-85
Reserve and Active
NAS North Island

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 2015 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]

US Navy 060730-N-IJ727-011 An SH-60B Seahawk helicopter assigned to HSL-47 lowers a rescue swimmer

A SH-60B attached to HSL-47 lowers a rescue swimmer.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HSL-37 File:Hsl37.jpg Easyriders SH-60B MCAS Kaneohe Bay
HSL-48 File:Hsl48.jpg Vipers SH-60B NS Mayport
HSL-49 File:Hsl49.jpg Scorpions SH-60B NAS North Island
HSL-60 File:Hsl60.jpg Jaguars SH-60B Reserve NS Mayport

Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadrons[]

MH-60R

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-35 HSM 35 Logo Magicians MH-60R, MQ-8B Expeditionary
Actived May 2, 2013.[11]
NAS North Island
HSM-40 HSM-40 Logo Airwolves MH-60R FRS
NS Mayport
HSM-41 File:Hsm-41.gif Seahawks MH-60R FRS
NAS North Island
HSM-46 HSM 46 Logo Grandmasters MH-60R Expeditionary
NS Mayport
HSM-51 File:Hsl51.jpg Warlords MH-60R Expeditionary
NAF Atsugi
HSM-70 File:HSM-70 emblem.jpg Spartans MH-60R CVW-8
NAS Jacksonville
HSM-71 HSM-71 Raptors MH-60R CVW-9
NAS North Island
HSM-72 HSM 72 Logo Proud Warriors MH-60R CVW-7
NAS Jacksonville
HSM-73 HSM 73 Logo Battle Cats MH-60R CVW-17
NAS North Island
HSM-74 HSM-74 Squadron Patch Swamp Fox MH-60R CVW-3
NAS Jacksonville
HSM-75 HSM-75 Squadron Logo Wolfpack MH-60R CVW-11
NAS North Island
HSM-77 HSM77 Insignia Saberhawks MH-60R CVW-5
NAF Atsugi
First LAMPS deployment aboard carrier[12]
HSM-78 HSM 78 Logo Blue Hawks MH-60R CVW-2
NAS North Island

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."[13]

File:TH-57 HT-8 HLT IX514.jpg

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 File:Ht-8.jpg Eightballers TH-57 NAS Whiting Field
HT-18 File:Ht-18.jpg Vigilant Eagles TH-57 NAS Whiting Field
HT-28 File: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.[14]

RQ-2B pioneer uav

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

Unmanned Reconnaissance Helicopter Squadrons[]

The Unmanned Reconnaissance Helicopter Squadrons' mission is to support Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance demands for conventional forces and special forces. They will be used by HSM and HSC Expeditionary detachments to support Littoral Combat Ship operations and will also be used by unmanned detachments on other aviation capable navy ships.[15] The aviation platforms will consist of the MQ-8B, flown by SH-60 aviators, and the MQ-8C Fire-X, flown by enlisted operators.[16]

FIRESCOUT-VUAS

A US Navy MQ-8B with the BRITE Star II electro-optical/infrared payload at Webster Field, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
HUQ-1 TBD TBD MQ-8 FRS
To be established 1 October 2012[15]
NAS North Island

Test and Evaluation[]

Test and Evaluation squadrons test everything from basic aircraft flying qualities to advanced aerodynamics. VX-1 and VX-9 report to the Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force (OPTEVFOR).

00VX-23 US Navy aircraft in flight

VX-23 jets.

Squadron Name Insignia Nickname Aircraft Notes
USN Test Pilot School Tps Various NAS Patuxent River
VX-1 VX1 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[17]
VXS-1 Vxs-1 Warlocks P-3
C-12
formerly NRL's Flight Support Detachment
Scientific Development
NAS Patuxent River[17]
VX-9 VX-9- logo 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 Force E-2C
P-3C
C-130
C-2A
E-6B
T-34C
Force Warfare Aircraft Test
NAS Patuxent River[18]
HX-21 HX 21 Rotary wing test 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[19]
VX-23 Air Test and Evaluation Squadron VX-23 (insignia) Saltydogs F-35
FA-18
EA-6B
EA-18G
T-45
Strike Aircraft Test
NAS Patuxent River
VX-30 Vx-30 logo Bloodhounds C-130
P-3 All Variants
S-3B
FA-18
Weapons Test
NAS Point Mugu
VX-31 Vx-31 logo 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-18G Growler 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. London, Christina. "Navy Drone Squadron First of Its Kind." NBC San Diego, 3 May 2013.
  12. Utz, Curtis A; Mark L Evans; Dale J Gordon (July–August 2005). "The Year in Review 2004" (PDF). Naval Aviation News. United States Navy. p. 37. http://www.history.navy.mil/nan/backissues/2000s/2005/julaug/p20-43_Year%20in%20Review%202004.pdf. 
  13. "Helicopter Training Squadron 8". Global Security. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/ht-8.htm. 
  14. "Fleet Composite Squadron SIX". U.S. Navy. Global Security. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/vc-6.htm. 
  15. 15.0 15.1 OPNAV Notice 5400. 14 August 2012
  16. Stewart, Joshua. "New squadron to deploy, train unmanned helicopter pilots." Navy Times. 30 August 2012.
  17. 17.0 17.1 "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. 
  18. "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]
  19. Carlson, Ted (Spring 2005). "HX-21 - Blackjack". 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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