List of United States Navy aircraft squadrons


This is a list of active 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 composed of several aircraft, the officers who fly them, the officers and sailors who maintain them and administrative support officers and sailors. Some of the units listed in this article are not technically "squadrons", but they all operate U.S. Navy aircraft in some capacity.
Squadrons and their history are listed in the Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons.

Squadron organization

Active duty squadrons are typically Time commanded by a commander. Second in command is the executive officer, 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 and branches.
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

Squadrons can be categorized in a number of ways: Active versus Navy Reserve, land-based versus sea-based, fixed wing versus rotary wing versus Unmanned aerial vehicle, and by mission. Unlike the USAF, US Army, and USMC, the US Navy does not refer to organizations such as maintenance, medical, administrative or other units as "squadrons". In the US Navy a squadron is a unit of aircraft, ships, submarines or boats. There are two exceptions: Tactical Air Control Squadrons consists of personnel specialized in the control of aircraft in support of amphibious operations; and the operating units of Naval Special Warfare Development Group colloquially known as "SEAL Team SIX", are called "squadrons" named by color. This article concerns US Navy aircraft 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 that have no Active counterpart.
At any one time, the US Navy has approximately 600 aircraft that are associated with particular ships. There are also several thousand additional 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.

Squadron designations

Navy aircraft squadrons can be properly referred to by designation or nickname. A squadron's designation describes its mission and therefore generally the type of aircraft it flies.
A single squadron can carry a number of designations through its existence. Chief Of Naval Operations Instruction 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 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.

Fixed Wing Squadrons

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. 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 with abbreviated squadron designations. 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". 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 heavier 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 Fleet Replacement Squadrons.

Electronic Attack (VAQ)

The VAQ designation was established in 1968 to designate "Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron". On 30 March 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-____".
Electronic Attack Squadrons consists of seven Boeing EA-18G Growlers with the exception of the Fleet Replacement Squadron which has more. The primary mission of the Growler is Electronic Attack, also known as Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses 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.
Most VAQ squadrons are carrier based, however a number are "expeditionary", deploying to overseas land bases. When not deployed, they are home-ported at NAS Whidbey Island, WA. The exception is VAQ-141, which is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan.
Note: The parenthetical and 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 DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational Commander Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
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
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
Wizards
EA-18G
Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE
Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific
VAQ-133: 1 Apr 1996–presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport 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 – presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-137
Rooks
EA-18G
Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE
Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific
VAQ-137: 1 Oct 1996–presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-140
Patriots
EA-18G
Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN
Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific
VAQ-140: 1 Oct 1985–presentHomeport NAS Whidbey Island
VAQ-141
Shadowhawks
EA-18G
Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE
Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific
VAQ-141: 1 Jul 1987–presentForward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan
VAQ-142
Gray Wolves
EA-18G
Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN
Commander, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific
VAQ-142: 1 Apr 1997–presentHomeport 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-209: 1 Oct 1977–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island

Airborne Command & Control (VAW)

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". 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 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. Established from VAW-11 were RVAW-110, VAW-111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116 and established from VAW-12 were RVAW-120, VAW-121, 122, 123. In 2019, the VAW designation was renamed from Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron to Airborne Command and Control squadron and all VAW squadrons were renamed “Airborne Command & Control Squadron XXX” while retaining the VAW designation.
Each Carrier Airborne Command and Control squadron consists of four E-2C or five 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 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.
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 DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational Commander Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
VAW-113
Black Eagles
E-2D
Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO
Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing
VAW-113: 20 Apr 1967–presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport NAS Pt. Mugu
Established from a detachment of VAW-11
VAW-117
Wallbangers
E-2D
Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE
Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing
VAW-117: 1 Jul 1974–presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport NS Norfolk
VAW-125
Tigertails
E-2D
Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE
Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing
VAW-125: 1 Oct 1968–presentForward 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–presentHomeport NS Norfolk

Strike Fighter (VFA)

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" and all VFA squadrons in existence at the time were renamed from "Fighter Attack Squadron-___" to "Strike Fighter Squadron-___". An active component Strike Fighter Squadron consists of either ten or twelve F/A-18E single seat Super Hornets, twelve F/A-18F two seat Super Hornets or ten F-35C Lightning IIs. There is one reserve component VFA squadron equipped with the F/A-18C Hornet. Training squadrons have many more aircraft. The Hornet and Super Hornet are all-weather aircraft used for attack and fighter missions. In fighter mode, they are used 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. The last active component F/A-18C Hornet squadron began its transition to the super hornet in February 2019, leaving only a single reserve component F/A-18C Hornet squadron. The first deployable squadron to transition to the F-35C was a Super Hornet squadron. Ultimately each Carrier Air Wing will be equipped with two Super Hornet squadrons and two F-35C squadrons.
VFA squadrons are home-ported at NAS Lemoore, CA or NAS Oceana, VA when not deployed except for the squadrons of CVW-5 which are forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan
Note: The parenthetical,, 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.
Squadron DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational Commander Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
VFA-2
Bounty Hunters
F/A-18F
Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific
VF-2: 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: 1 Sep 1950-16 Feb 1959
VF-11: 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: 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921
VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921–23 Sep 1921
VF-4 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-1: 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927
VF-1B: 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: 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: 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-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946
VA-6B: 15 Nov 1946–27 Jul 1948
VA-65: 27 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1959
VA-25: 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 ELEVEN
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic
VF-1B: 1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937
VF-6: 1 Jul 1937–15 Jul 1943
VF-3: 15 Jul 1943–15 Nov 1946
VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948
VF-31: 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: 7 Aug 1948-1 Aug 2006
VFA-32: 1 Aug 2006–present
Homeport NAS Oceana
VFA-34
Blue Blasters
F/A-18E
Commander, Carrier Air Wing EIGHT
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic
VA-34: 1 Jan 1970-30 Aug 1996
VFA-34: 30 Aug 1996–present
Homeport NAS Oceana
Was the last active component F/A-18C Hornet squadron. Began transition to F/A-18E in Feb 2019
VFA-37
Ragin Bulls
F/A-18E
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: 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: 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955
VF-81: 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-18E
Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic
VF-916: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953
VF83: 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 SEVEN
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific
VF-921: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953
VF-84: 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955
VA-86: 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 ELEVEN
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: 26 Mar 1952-1 Aug 1958
VA-94: 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-102
Diamondbacks
F/A-18F
Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific
VA-36: 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955
VF-102: 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 and redesignated VF-102 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: 4 Mar 1968-17 Dec 1990
VFA-105:17 Dec 1990–present
Homeport NAS Oceana
VFA-106
Gladiators
F/A-18E, F/A-18F
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic
VFA-106: 27 Apr 1984–presentFleet 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 TWO
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–presentFleet 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, Joint Strike Fighter Wing
Commander, Joint Strike Fighter Wing
VFA-125: 13 Nov 1980–present
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 as a F-35C FRS on 12 Jan 2017
VFA-131
Wild Cats
F/A-18E
Commander, Carrier Air Wing THREE
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic
VFA-131: 3 Oct 1983–presentHomeport NAS Oceana
VFA-136
Knighthawks
F/A-18E
Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific
VFA-136: 1 Jul 1985–presentHomeport NAS Lemoore
VFA-137
Kestrels
F/A-18E
Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific
VFA-137: 1 Jul 1985–presentHomeport 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: 12 Apr 195-20 Jun 1962
VF-143: 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
Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO
Commander, Joint Strike Fighter Wing
VA-147: 1 Feb 1967-20 Jul 1989
VFA-147: 20 Jul 1989–present
Homeport NAS Lemoore
First operational U.S. Navy F-35C squadron
VFA-151
Vigilantes
F/A-18E
Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Pacific
VF-23: 6 Aug 1948-23 Feb 1959
VF-151: 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: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946–15 Jul 1948
VF-151: 15 Jul 1948–15 Feb 1950
VF-192: 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-18C
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: 1 Dec 1949-9 Mar 1959
VF-211: 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)

The VFC designation was created in 1988 when two Fleet Composite 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 and 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 DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
VFC-12
Fighting Omars
F/A-18A
F/A-18C/D
Commander, Tactical Support Wing
VC-12: 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: 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–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
Third "Sundowners" squadron
Based at NAS Key West
Adopted nickname and insignia of VF-111 which had been disestablished in 1995

Patrol (VP), Patrol Squadron Special Unit (VPU), Unmanned Patrol (VUP)

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". In 1982 the VPU Patrol Squadron Special Unit designation was created. Maritime patrol aircraft are used primarily for reconnaissance, anti-surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare. of the Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons contains comprehensive histories over 150 patrol squadrons. Its details the lineage of every VP, VPB, VP, and VP squadron from 1922 through the late 1990s.
In 2016 the first "Unmanned" Patrol Squadron 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,, and, 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 DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
VP-1
Screaming Eagles
P-8A
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: 1 Sep 1948–present
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island
VP-4
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: 1 Sep 1948–present
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island
VP-5
Mad Foxes
P-8A
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN
VP-17F: 2 Jan 1937-1 Oct 1937
VP-17: 1 Oct 1937-1 Jul 1939
VP-42: 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: 1 Sep 1948–present
Homeport NAS Jacksonville
VP-8
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: 1 Sep 1948–present
Homeport NAS Jacksonville
VP-9
Golden Eagles
P-8A
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN
VP-9: 15 Mar 1951–presentHomeport NAS Whidbey Island
VP-10
Red Lancers
P-8A
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN
VP-10: 19 Mar 1951–presentHomeport NAS Jacksonville
VP-16
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: 4 Feb 1953–present
Homeport NAS Jacksonville
USNR VP-741 activated on 1 May 1951 for the Korean War
VP-26
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: 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–presentFleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS Jacksonville
VP-40
Fighting Marlins
P-8A
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN
VP-40: 20 Jan 1951–presentHomeport NAS Whidbey Island
VP-45
Pelicans
P-8A
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN
VP-205: 1 Nov 1942-1 Oct 1944
VPB-205: 1 Oct 1944–15 May 1946
VP-205: 15 May 1946–15 Nov 1946
VP-MS-5: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VP-45: 1 Sep 1948–present
Homeport NAS Jacksonville
VP-46
Grey Knights
P-8A
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN
VP-5S: 1 Sep 1931-1 Apr 1933
VP-5F: 1 Apr 1933–1937
VP-5: 1937-1 Jul 1939
VP-33: 1 Jul 1939-1 Jul 1941
VP-32: 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 active aircraft squadron in the U. S. Navy
VP-47
Golden Swordsmen
P-8A
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN
VP-27: 1 Jun 1944-1 Oct 1944
VPB-27: 1 Oct 1944–15 May 1946
VP-27: 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
Broadarrows
P-3C
Commander, Maritime Support Wing
VP-62: 1 Nov 1970–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
Homeport NAS Jacksonville
VP-69
Totems
P-3C
Commander, Maritime Support Wing
VP-69: 1 Nov 1970–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island
VPU-2
Wizards
P-3C
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN
VPU-2: 1 Jul 1982–presentHomeport MCAS Kaneohe Bay
VUP-11
MQ-4C
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN
To be established in 2020.
Homeport NAS Whidbey Island
VUP-19
Big Red
MQ-4C
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ELEVEN
VUP-19: 1 Oct 2016-presentHomeport NAS Jacksonville
NAS Point Mugu

Fleet Air Reconnaissance (VQ)

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." Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron ONE is currently the Navy's only overt signals intelligence and communications intelligence 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 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 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 which is capable of launching U.S. land based intercontinental ballistic missiles and fulfilling the TACAMO 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 DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational Commander Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
VQ-1
World Watchers
EP-3E
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN
Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing TEN
VQ-1: 1 Jun 1955–presentHomeport NAS Whidbey Island
VQ-3
Ironman
E-6B
Commander, United States Strategic Command task force 124
Commander, Strategic Communications Wing ONE
VQ-3: 1 Jul 1968–presentHomeport Tinker AFB
Dets at Travis AFB and Offutt AFB
VQ-4
Shadows
E-6B
Commander, United States Strategic Command task force 124
Commander, Strategic Communications Wing ONE
VQ-4: 1 Jul 1968–presentHomeport 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)

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 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 " based in Hawaii and Sigonella Italy.
Note: The parenthetical,, or, 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 DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
VR-1
Star Lifters
C-37B
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-1: 1 May 1997 – presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
Joint Base Andrews
VR-51
Windjammers
C-40A
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-51: 1 Jun 1997–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
MCAS Kaneohe Bay
VR-53
Capital Express
C-130T
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-53: 1 Oct 1992–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
Naval Air Facility Washington
VR-54
Revelers
C-130T
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-54: 1 Jun 1991–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
NAS JRB New Orleans
VR-55
Minutemen
C-130T
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-55: 1 Apr 1976–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
NAS Point Mugu
VR-56
Globemasters
C-40A
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-56: 1 Jul 1976–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
NAS Oceana
VR-57
Conquistadors
C-40A
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-57: 1 Nov 1977–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
NAS North Island
VR-58
Sunseekers
C-40A
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-58: 1 Nov 1977–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
NAS Jacksonville
VR-59
Lone Star Express
C-40A
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-59: 1 Oct 1982–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
NAS JRB Fort Worth
VR-61
Islanders
C-40A
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-61: 1 Oct 1982–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
NAS Whidbey Island
VR-62
Nomads
C-130T
Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing
VR-62: 1 Jul 1985–presentU S Navy Reserve Squadron
NAS Jacksonville
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

Fleet Logistics Support (VRC)

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 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", 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.

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30)

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 (VRC-40)

Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission (VRM)

"The CMV-22B Osprey long-range tiltrotor aircraft is the US Navy’s future variant of MV-22B Osprey assault support aircraft developed by Bell Boeing for the US Marine Corps. The medium-lift variant will operate as a carrier on-board delivery aircraft to meet the logistics support requirements of the Joint Force Maritime Component Commander during time-critical scenarios. It will replace Northrop Grumman-built C-2A Greyhound cargo aircraft that has been in service with the US Navy since the 1960s. The CMV-22B will be used by the US Navy for transportation of special warfare teams, mail and cargo from shore to its aircraft carriers, as well as for shore or sea-based combat search-and-rescue missions".
The development of the VRM designation and adoption of the CMV-22B demonstrates the Navy's intent to utilize the platform as a means of replacing the carrier-based C-2A Greyhound. This shift in direction has coincided with the formation of the Navy's first VRM squadron, the "Titans" of VRM-30.


Squadron DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational Commander Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
VRM-30
Titans
CMV-22B
Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing
Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing
VRM-30: 1 Dec 2018–PresentHomeport NAS North Island
VRM-40
CMV-22B
Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing
Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing
Planned for future establishmentHomeport NS Norfolk
VRM-50
CMV-22B
Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing
Commander, Airborne Command, Control, Logistics Wing
VRM-50: 1 Oct 2019–PresentFleet Replacement Squadron based at NAS North Island

Training (VT)

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". In 1946 all remaining Torpedo Squadrons and Bombing Squadrons were redesignated "Attack Squadrons" and the VT designation was retired.
From 1927 to 1947 training squadrons were designated "VN". From 1947 to 1960 training units were not designated as squadrons, they were "units" or "groups" called Basic Training Groups, Advanced Training Units, Jet Transition Training Units or Multi Engine Training Groups. On 1 May 1960 the VT designation was resurrected and existing flying training units were designated "Training Squadrons ". 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 or two advanced training pipelines for Flight Officers. 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. Training squadrons are organized differently than the Navy's operational squadrons as training squadrons do not own their own aircraft. All training aircraft are assigned to and maintained by the Training Air Wing to which the squadrons are assigned. The training squadrons are composed only of Instructors and Students, with all maintenance and support functions carried out by the Training Air Wing. Training aircraft are painted orange and white.
Squadron DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
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
NFO Advanced Training, based at NAS Pensacola
Deactivated in Dec 2010 as an NFO primary training squadron and reactivated 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
Tigers
T-45C
Commander, Training Air Wing ONE
VT-19: 2 Aug 1971-1 Oct 1998
VT-9: 1 Oct 1998–present
Advanced Training, based at NAS Meridian
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 1960
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–presentAdvanced Training, based at NAS Corpus Christi
VT-86
Sabrehawks
T-45C
Commander, Training Air Wing SIX
VT-86: 5 Jun 1972–presentNFO Advanced Training, based at NAS Pensacola

Air Test and Evaluation (VX), Scientific Development (VXS)

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 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.
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 and UX-24 ) are developmental test and evaluation squadrons which conduct or support developmental test and evaluation of aircraft and weapons as part of the Naval Air Systems Command while VX-1 and VX-9 are operational test and evaluation squadrons which conduct operational test and evaluation of aircraft and weapons as part of the Operational Test and Evaluation Force.
Squadron DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
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
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–presentOperational test and evaluation of strike aircraft and weapons.
Based at NAWS China Lake
Established from the assets of VX-4 "Evaluators" and VX-5 "Vampires" which were both disestablished in 1994
VX-20
Force
E-2D
P-8A
C-130T
C-130J
C-2A
E-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
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
Range surveillance, photometric support, area clearance, and airborne telemetry on the Naval Air Systems Command Sea Test Range in support of developmental test and evaluation of airborne weapons and platform-related systems.
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 and platform-related systems.
Based at NAWS China Lake
VXS-1
Warlocks
NP-3D
P-3C
UV-18A
RC-12M
Tiger Shark UAS
Commander, Naval Research Laboratory
VXS-1: 13 Dec 2004–presentNRL early scientific development and testing.
Based at NAS Patuxent River
Formerly NRL's Flight detachment

Other Fixed Wing Aircraft Units

Other than the Naval Flight Demonstration Squadron "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.
The U.S. Naval Test Pilot School operates various fixed and rotary wing aircraft to train and graduate test pilots and test engineers.
The Navy Fighter Weapons School, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Weapons School and the Airborne Electronic Attack Weapons School train selected U. S. Navy Naval Aviators and Naval Flight Officers in instructional techniques and in advanced tactics in their respective aircraft, qualifying them for assignment to their respective wing weapons schools where they provide advanced training for each wing's squadrons utilizing squadron aircraft.
Squadron DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative CommanderNotes
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
Homeport NAS Pensacola
Winter training site NAF El Centro
It has been announced that the Blue Angels 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/D
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-18E/F
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic
Based at NAS Oceana
Strike Fighter Weapons School Pacific
F/A-18E/F
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/D
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

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 ONE and TWO. Prior the creation of the HU designation, the two basic 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)

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. 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.
The MH-53E Sea Dragon is also a capable heavy-lift asset, with three powerful turboshaft engines and a maximum take-off weight of. 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, some 14,950 lb 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. 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 and 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 DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
HM-12
Sea Dragons
MH-53E
Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic
HM-12: 1 Oct 2015–presentFleet Replacement Squadron based at NS Norfolk
HM-14
Vanguard
MH-53E
Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic
HM-14: 12 May 1978 – presentHomeport NS Norfolk
HM-15
Blackhawks
MH-53E
Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic
HM-15: 2 Jan 1987–presentHomeport NS Norfolk

Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC)

The Helicopter Sea Combat Designation was created in 2005 after the Helicopter Combat Support squadrons equipped with the H-46 Sea Knight had completed their transitions to the new multi-mission MH-60S Seahawk, and in anticipation of the upcoming transition of the Helicopter Antisubmarine squadrons from the SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawks to the new MH-60S which began in 2007. 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 squadrons with greatly upgraded Combat Search and Rescue, Naval Special Warfare Support and Anti-Surface Warfare capabilities of the former Helicopter Anti-submarine squadrons.
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 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 DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational Commander Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
HSC-2
Fleet Angels
MH-60S
Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic
Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic
HC-2: 1 Apr 1987-24 Aug 2005
HSC-2: 24 Aug 2005–present
Fleet Replacement Squadron based at NS Norfolk
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: 15 Dec 1969-Apr 2011
HSC-7: Apr 2011–present
Homeport NS Norfolk
HSC-8
Eightballers
MH-60S
Commander, Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN
Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific
HS-8: 1 Nov 1969-1 Apr 2007
HSC-8: 1 Apr 2007–present
Homeport NAS North Island
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–presentHomeport 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–presentHomeport 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: 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



High Rollers
Fire Hawks
MH-60S
HH-60H
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

Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM)

The HSM designation was created in 2006 when the Fleet Replacement Squadron for the MH-60R Seahawk was redesignated from HSL. The new designation was created to reflect the MH-60Rs multi-mission capabilities which combined the area search capabilities of the SH-60B flown by the Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light squadrons with the dipping sonar of the SH-60F flown by the carrier based Helicopter Anti-Submarine squadrons. The first operational fleet squadron to receive the MH-60 Romeo was HSM-71 in fiscal year 2008. With the transition of the HS squadrons to HSC squadrons without any ASW capability and the disestablishment of the last Air Antisubmarine squadrons, all ship based airborne ASW capabilities now reside in the new HSM squadrons.
From 2009 to 2015 all Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light squadrons transitioned to the MH-60R and were redesignated Helicopter Maritime Strike 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 DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational Commander Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
HSM-35
Magicians
MH-60R
MQ-8B
Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific
Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific
HSM-35: 2 May 2013 – presentHomeport NAS North Island
Expeditionary Squadron
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–presentHomeport NAS Jacksonville
HSM-71
Raptors
MH-60R
Commander, Carrier Air Wing NINE
Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific
HSM-71: 1 Jan 2007–presentHomeport 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
HSM-78
Blue Hawks
MH-60R
Commander, Carrier Air Wing TWO
Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific
HSM-78: 1 Mar 2012–presentHomeport NAS North Island
HSM-79
Griffins
MH-60R
Commander, Carrier Air Wing SEVEN
Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific
HSM-79: 2 Jun 2016–presentHomeport NAS North Island

Helicopter Training (HT)

The HT designation first appeared in May 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 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." and proceed on to their selected aircraft's Fleet Replacement Squadron. Training squadrons are organized differently than the Navy's operational squadrons as training squadrons do not own their own aircraft. All training aircraft are assigned to and maintained by the Training Air Wing to which the squadrons are assigned. The training squadrons are composed only of Instructors and Students, with all maintenance and support functions carried out by the Training Air Wing.
Squadron DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
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–presentAdvanced training based at NAS Whiting Field
HT-28
Hellions
TH-57B
TH-57C
Commander, Training Air Wing FIVE
HT-28: 1 Nov 2006–presentAdvanced training based at NAS Whiting Field

Air Test and Evaluation (HX)

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.
Squadron DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
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

Other Rotary Wing Aircraft Units

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. The Navy Rotary Wing Weapons School trains selected U. S. Navy Naval Aviators in instructional techniques and in advanced tactics for their respective aircraft, qualifying them for assignment to their respective wing weapons schools where they provide advanced training for each wing's squadrons utilizing squadron aircraft.
Squadron DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative CommanderNotes
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

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Squadrons

The U.S. Navy operates a number of Unmanned Aerial Systems utilizing different organizational constructs. The operational MQ-4 Triton is organized into "Unmanned Patrol Squadrons" which operate alongside manned "Patrol Squadrons" utilizing the same administrative and operational command structures for both VP and VUP squadrons. MQ-8 Fire Scouts are operated by HSM and HSC squadrons along with the squadrons' MH-60R and MH-60S aircraft. In April 2018 a new squadron type designation was created apart from the existing "V" for fixed wing squadron and "H" for rotary wing squadron when Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Twenty Four was programmed for establishment to develop unmanned aerial systems for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. This action created a third squadron type designation of "U".

Air Test and Evaluation (UX)

Test and Evaluation squadrons test everything from basic aircraft flying qualities to advanced aerodynamics to weapons systems effectiveness. UX-24 conducts developmental test and evaluation of fixed wing and rotary wing unmanned aerial systems as part of the Naval Air Systems Command.
Squadron DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraftOperational and Administrative Commander Squadron LineageNotes
UX-24
Various fixed and rotary winged UAS
Commander, Naval Test Wing Atlantic
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Test Directorate
UX-24: 17 Oct 2018–present
Developmental test and evaluation of Fixed Wing and Rotary Wing UAS
NOLF Webster