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Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87)
Founded1 February 1968; 57 years ago (1968-02-01)
Country United States
Branch United States Navy
TypeFighter/Attack
RoleClose air support
Air interdiction
Aerial reconnaissance
Part ofCarrier Air Wing Eight
Garrison/HQNAS Oceana
NicknameGolden Warriors
Motto"War Party Rocks!!!"
Colors  
MascotNative American Warrior
EngagementsVietnam War
Operation Urgent Fury
Multinational Force in Lebanon
Operation Desert Storm
Operation Provide Comfort
Operation Southern Watch
Operation Deny Flight
Operation Deliberate Force
Operation Allied Force
Operation Enduring Freedom
Operation Iraqi Freedom
Operation New Dawn
Operation Inherent Resolve
Websitehttps://www.airlant.usff.navy.mil/vfa87/
Commanders
Commanding OfficerCDR John C. Schnepper, USN
Executive OfficerCDR Brandon S. Rodgers, USN
Command Master ChiefCMDCM (SW/FMF) Jason T. Snyder
Notable
commanders

Timothy J. Keating Patrick Walsh Dominic Gorie

Insignia
Call SignWar Party
Tail CodeAJ
Aircraft flown
AttackA-7B/E Corsair (1968 - 1986)
FighterF/A-18A/C/A+ Hornet (1986-2015)
F/A-18E Super Hornet (2015-present)

The Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87) is a United States Navy strike fighter squadron based at Naval Air Station Oceana. The squadron is equipped with the Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet and is nicknamed the Golden Warriors, its call sign is War Party. Currently, the squadron is assigned to Carrier Air Wing 8 (tail code "AJ").

Insignia and Nickname

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The squadron's insignia and nickname were approved by CNO on 29 July 1968 and have remained essentially unchanged.

History

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1960s

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Corsairs from VA-87 on USS Ticonderoga in 1969.

In June 1968, the squadron was established as VA-87, an attack aircraft squadron and the first fleet squadron to fly the LTV A-7 Corsair II, at NAS Cecil Field, Florida. In March 1969, the squadron flew its first combat missions from USS Ticonderoga, striking targets in South Vietnam. In April 1969 following the shoot down of a Navy EC-121 Warning Star aircraft by the North Koreans, Ticonderoga, with VA-87 embarked, was ordered to the Sea of Japan.

1970s

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In the 1970s, VA-87 made 12 deployments aboard three different carriers—USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, USS America and USS Independence.

In 1973, the squadron protected U.S. interests during the Yom Kippur War. Transitioning to the improved A-7E Corsair II, the squadron returned in October 1976 to the Middle East following the assassination of the American ambassador to Lebanon Francis E. Meloy Jr, assisting in the evacuation of U.S. citizens, while embarked on America.

1980s

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A VA-87 A-7E over Grenada, in 1983.

During the Iran hostage crisis and the Israeli-Syrian disputes of 1981, VA-87 deployed to the region for 195 days aboard Independence. One year later the squadron returned, supporting U.S. peacekeeping operations in Lebanon.

In October 1983, the squadron participated in Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada. During the same deployment, VA-87 participated in strikes against Syria in response to hostile fire against U.S. reconnaissance aircraft from Syrian positions in Lebanon.

On 24 October 1986, the squadron transitioned to the F/A-18A Hornet and was redesignated Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87).

1990s

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F/A-18As of VFA-87 during a raid over Iraq, in 1991.

On 28 December 1990, following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, the squadron deployed for Operation Desert Storm, flying 629 sorties over 43 days of intense combat.

The squadron, equipped with the newer F/A-18C, deployed to the Adriatic Sea and Red Sea from March to September 1993, flying hundreds of missions in support of United Nations Operation Deny Flight, Operation Provide Comfort and Operation Southern Watch. Embarked for the last time on Theodore Roosevelt, VFA-87 returned in March 1995 to Southwest Asia for a month to participate in Operation Southern Watch.

Following a hasty transit to the Adriatic, the squadron spent four months flying combat sorties over the increasingly embattled former Yugoslavia. On 30 August 1995, squadron jets were the first to strike Bosnian Serb targets as the Operation Deliberate Force campaign commenced.

VFA-87 again headed to the Adriatic to fly over Bosnia-Herzegovina in support of Operation Deliberate Guard and again in Operation Southern Watch before coming home in October 1997 to Naval Air Station Cecil Field for the last time in the squadron's history. The squadron was forced to relocate to NAS Oceana, in Virginia Beach, Virginia from NAS Cecil Field in Jacksonville, Florida due to a 1993 post-Cold War Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC) decision mandating the closure of NAS Cecil Field by 1 Oct 1999.

The Golden Warriors made history again by participating in combat operations in two different theaters during a single deployment, operating from USS Theodore Roosevelt. While en route to the Persian Gulf in April 1999, crisis erupted in the former Yugoslavian republic of Kosovo, prompting the largest aerial bombing campaign since the Vietnam War. In just 68 days, Golden Warrior FA-18s dropped 430,000 pounds of ordnance and flew 595 combat missions during Operation ALLIED FORCE, contributing to a NATO victory, and expelling Serbian oppressors from the war-torn province of Kosovo. In July, VFA-87 returned to the Persian Gulf and flew 176 combat missions in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH. The Golden Warriors returned to their first new home in over thirty years, NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, Virginia.[1]

2000s

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In April 2001, VFA-87 deployed on a Persian Gulf cruise enforcing the no fly zone over Southern Iraq aboard USS Enterprise until the September 11 attacks occurred. The squadron was then held on station along with the entire Enterprise battle group, to conduct first strike combat missions over Afghanistan against embedded Taliban targets. VFA-87 returned to NAS Oceana in November 2001.

Iraq and Afghanistan

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In January 2003, USS Theodore Roosevelt battle group along with VFA-87 conducted combat operations over Iraq, initiating Operation Iraqi Freedom.

VFA-87 deployed again in September 2005 aboard Theodore Roosevelt, returning on 11 March 2006, and received the Atlantic Fleet "Battle E" award later that year.

In September 2006, the squadron transitioned from the F/A-18C to the F/A-18A+ and was again named the "Battle E" squadron for the Atlantic Fleet in March 2007. It deployed again in September 2008 to the North Arabian Sea, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and returned home to NAS Oceana on 18 April 2009.

2010s

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2010 was a year of significant accomplishment for the squadron. VFA-87 participated in three embarked periods in preparation for the maiden deployment of USS George H. W. Bush, including a deck qualification, Independent Steaming Exercise (ISE), and Tailored Ship's Training Assessment (TSTA). Additionally the "War Party" completed three command detachments; one to NAS Key West for the Air-to-Air Strike Fighter Advanced Readiness Program (SFARP) and two to NAS Fallon for Air-to-Ground SFARP.[2]

In May 2011, VFA-87 departed on a deployment aboard USS George H. W. Bush. While deployed the squadron flew combat missions in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn flying over Afghanistan and Iraq respectively in support of combat troops on the ground.

In 2012 VFA-87 successfully completed four operational detachments, transitioned back to the F/A-18C by transferring 10 F/A-18A+ and accepting 11 F/A-18C aircraft. The squadron made another deployment aboard George H. W. Bush to the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean from February to November 2014. Following this deployment, VFA-87 converted to the F/A-18E Super Hornet.

Syria

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Main article: Ja'Din shootdown incident

VFA-87 made a single deployment aboard USS George H. W. Bush from January to August 2017. During this desployment, Lieutenant Commander Michael Tremel, flying a VFA-87 F/A-18E shot down a Syrian Su-22 after multiple observed ROE violations on 18 June 2017. The Su-22 had been bombing US-backed forces fighting the Islamic State.[3][4]

2020s

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F/A-18E of VFA-87 landing aboard Gerald R. Ford in March 2022.

After having been assigned to CVW-8 since 1988, VFA-87 was re-assigned to Carrier Air Wing 11 in 2020. The squadron made two deployments aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt to the Western Pacific from January and July 2020 and from December to May 2021. Following these deployments, the squadron returned to CVW-8. In 2021, CVW-8 was re-assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford.[5]

Notable squadron members

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See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

VFA-87

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87), known as the "Golden Warriors", is an active aviation unit specializing in operations. Established on 1 February 1968 as Attack Squadron 87 (VA-87) at , , it became the first Navy squadron to operate the LTV A-7B Corsair II light attack aircraft. The squadron conducted its initial combat missions in 1969 during the and later participated in Operation Urgent Fury in in October 1983, providing and strikes from . On 24 October 1986, VA-87 transitioned to the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A Hornet and was redesignated VFA-87, relocating to , Virginia, as part of (CVW-8). In Operation Desert Storm (1990–1991), the squadron flew 629 combat sorties over 43 days from USS Theodore Roosevelt, contributing to the liberation of . During Operation Allied Force in 1999, VFA-87 executed 595 combat missions in 68 days, expending over 430,000 pounds of ordnance in support of operations over the . The squadron has since upgraded to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and continues to deploy aboard aircraft carriers such as , logging thousands of flight hours and carrier landings in recent operations.

Squadron Identity

Insignia, Nickname, and Call Sign

Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87) bears the nickname "Golden Warriors," a designation originating from its establishment as Attack Squadron 87 (VA-87) in 1968 and retained through its transition to strike fighter role. The squadron's radio call sign is "War Party," used for tactical communications during flight operations. The official insignia, approved by the Chief of Naval Operations on 15 September 1969, features a central image of a golden-armored warrior mounted on a horse, emblematic of the squadron's name and martial ethos, set within a circular design incorporating the unit's designation. This emblem adorns aircraft, patches, and official squadron materials.

Motto and Traditions

The motto of Squadron 87 (VFA-87) is "War Party Rocks!", a phrase that affirms the squadron's "War Party" and underscores its emphasis on high morale, , and during deployments and operations. The motto appears in official squadron documentation, including welcome materials for new personnel and historical summaries of achievements, such as post-deployment recaps following the 2021 cruise aboard (CVN-75). VFA-87 maintains traditions that highlight its aviation prowess and squadron identity, notably conducting change-of-command ceremonies in flight to symbolize seamless transitions amid ongoing missions. This practice occurred on July 2, 2014, when Cmdr. relieved Cmdr. Geoffrey Vickers during an airborne event, and again on September 17, 2020, under Cmdr. Michael Dalby, reinforcing the squadron's operational tempo and readiness ethos. These airborne rituals, performed in F/A-18E Super Hornets, align with the squadron's historical focus on strike and fighter roles since its establishment as VA-87 in 1968. The "War Party" theme permeates squadron culture, evoking a collective warrior spirit tied to its Golden Warriors nickname, though specific ceremonial or morale-building beyond standard U.S. protocols—such as tailhook conventions and deployment commemorations—are not publicly detailed in records.

Organization and Capabilities

Establishment and Lineage

Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87), known as the "Golden Warriors," traces its lineage to Attack Squadron 87 (VA-87), which was established on 1 February 1968 at Naval Air Station Cecil Field, Florida. This marked the U.S. Navy's first operational squadron equipped with the LTV A-7B Corsair II subsonic light attack aircraft, designed for close air support and interdiction missions. The squadron's formation aligned with the Navy's expansion of carrier-based strike capabilities during the Vietnam War era, emphasizing precision strikes with the A-7's advanced navigation and bombing systems. VA-87 maintained its attack squadron designation and A-7 operations through the 1970s and early 1980s, participating in multiple carrier deployments. On 1 May 1986, the squadron was redesignated VFA-87 as it transitioned to the multirole McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A , reflecting the Navy's shift toward integrated fighter-attack platforms capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground roles. This redesignation preserved the squadron's continuous active-duty status without merger or disestablishment from predecessor units, distinguishing its lineage as a direct evolution from dedicated attack to operations. Subsequent upgrades to F/A-18C and F/A-18E variants have sustained this core identity within 8.

Basing, Structure, and Carrier Integration

Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87) is homeported at (NAS) Oceana in , serving as the primary land-based facility for training, maintenance, and administrative functions when not deployed. The squadron operates under a standard U.S. strike fighter organizational structure, led by a (typically a U.S. ) and an , with specialized departments handling flight operations, aircraft maintenance, safety and standardization, administrative services, and training. VFA-87 reports administratively to , Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic (CFSWL) at Oceana and operationally to , Carrier Air Wing 8 (CVW-8). It maintains a complement of F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft, with historical deployments involving around 12-14 aircraft supported by approximately 20 pilots and 200 enlisted personnel dedicated to aviation maintenance and logistics. VFA-87 integrates into CVW-8 as one of the squadrons, bearing "AJ" and contributing multi-role capabilities for air-to-air combat, , and precision strikes during carrier operations. Assigned to CVW-8 since December 1988, the squadron undergoes rigorous composite evolutions, including Air Wing Fallon exercises and carrier qualifications, to synchronize with other wing assets such as electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and squadrons aboard carriers like (CVN-78). Recent integration highlights include an eight-month deployment concluding in January 2024, supporting U.S. 2nd, 5th, and 6th Fleet operations as part of a .

Current Role and Mission Profile

Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87), known as the "Golden Warriors," operates the Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet as its primary aircraft, enabling multi-role capabilities in , , and electronic warfare missions. The squadron is assigned to (CVW-8), based at , , and reports administratively to Commander, Wing Atlantic. Its mission profile includes conducting carrier-based air-to-ground , air-to-air superiority operations, , armed , suppression of enemy air defenses, and fleet air defense, often integrating with joint and coalition forces for precision targeting using advanced and weaponry such as Joint Direct Attack Munitions and missiles. As of October 2025, VFA-87 is deployed with CVW-8 aboard the (CVN-78), which departed on June 24, 2025, for operations initially in the U.S. European Command area, including flight operations in the and . On October 24, 2025, the was redirected to U.S. Southern Command for missions in the region, supporting and deterrence operations. During this deployment, the squadron has executed numerous sorties, demonstrating the Super Hornet's versatility in dynamic threat environments.

Aircraft and Transitions

Early Aircraft: A-7 Corsair II Era

Attack Squadron 87 (VA-87) was established on February 1, 1968, at Naval Air Station Cecil Field, Florida, as the first U.S. Navy fleet squadron to operate the LTV A-7B Corsair II, a light attack aircraft designed for close air support and interdiction missions with enhanced range and payload over its predecessor, the A-4 Skyhawk. The A-7B featured a Rolls-Royce Spey turbofan engine, allowing it to carry up to 15,000 pounds of ordnance, including bombs, rockets, and missiles, while maintaining subsonic speeds suitable for low-level strikes. VA-87's initial deployment occurred from February to September 1969 with Carrier Air Wing 16 (CVW-16) aboard USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14), during which the squadron flew its first combat sorties on March 4, 1969, targeting enemy positions in South Vietnam as part of ongoing U.S. naval operations in Southeast Asia. Over the subsequent years, the squadron conducted multiple Mediterranean and Atlantic deployments, including four cruises with CVW-6 on USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CVA-42) between 1971 and 1975, where A-7Bs supported fleet defense and strike missions amid Cold War tensions. In October 1975, during a deployment on Franklin D. Roosevelt, VA-87 participated in the evacuation of American citizens from Lebanon following the assassination of the U.S. ambassador. In 1975, VA-87 transitioned to the upgraded A-7E variant, which incorporated advanced avionics, including a forward-looking radar and improved electronic countermeasures, enabling more precise all-weather operations and integration with laser-guided munitions. The squadron then shifted to CVW-6 deployments on USS America (CV-66) in 1976 and 1977, followed by USS Independence (CV-62) starting in 1979, accumulating over 12 carrier deployments through the early 1980s. Notable A-7E operations included support for U.S. interests during the 1980-1981 Iran hostage crisis and Israeli-Syrian conflicts, as well as Lebanon peacekeeping in 1982. A pinnacle of the A-7 era came in October 1983 during Operation Urgent Fury, the U.S. invasion of , when VA-87 A-7Es from USS Independence provided , striking Cuban-constructed fortifications at Port Salines airfield and other targets to facilitate the rescue of American students and restoration of order. Later that deployment, the squadron conducted strikes against Syrian positions in . The A-7 Corsair II remained VA-87's primary aircraft until May 1, 1986, when the squadron was redesignated VFA-87 and began transitioning to the F/A-18A Hornet, marking the end of its dedicated attack role with the subsonic light bomber.

Transition to F/A-18C Hornet

On 24 October 1986, Attack Squadron 87 (VA-87) transitioned from the LTV A-7E Corsair II to the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A Hornet and was redesignated Squadron 87 (VFA-87). This shift enabled the squadron to perform both air-to-ground strike and air-to-air fighter roles, reflecting the U.S. Navy's move toward multirole capable of replacing both the A-7 and older interceptors. The F/A-18A offered superior range, versatility, and systems compared to the subsonic A-7, with twin engines providing redundancy and afterburning thrust for carrier operations. The squadron conducted its first Hornet deployment aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt in 1987, accumulating flight hours and qualifying for combat readiness with the new platform. By the 1990–1991 deployment for Operation Desert Storm, VFA-87 flew F/A-18As, logging 629 sorties and delivering precision strikes against Iraqi targets. Following initial operations with the F/A-18A, VFA-87 upgraded to the F/A-18C variant in the early 1990s, incorporating enhanced AN/APG-65 radar modes, compatibility with advanced munitions like the AGM-84 Harpoon and , and improved electronic countermeasures. The C model, introduced Navy-wide starting in 1989, extended the 's service life through structural reinforcements and avionics upgrades. VFA-87 employed F/A-18Cs during its 1993 deployment to the Adriatic and Red Seas, supporting enforcement of no-fly zones over Bosnia with hundreds of missions. This upgrade solidified the squadron's role in precision strike and fleet air defense until further transitions in the .

Shift to F/A-18E Super Hornet

In 2012, Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87) transitioned from its legacy F/A-18A+ Hornets to the F/A-18E Super Hornet as part of the U.S. Navy's broader effort to modernize its carrier-based inventory. The squadron exchanged its aging aircraft for ten new Lot 37 F/A-18E Super Hornets, initiating a rigorous training program for pilots and maintenance personnel to achieve operational proficiency with the advanced platform. This shift followed earlier upgrades from combat-worn F/A-18C models in late 2006, reflecting the squadron's need for aircraft with enhanced reliability after extensive operations in and . The F/A-18E Super introduced significant improvements over the legacy , including a 25% increase in combat radius, approximately 33% greater weapons capacity (up to 17,750 pounds), and enhanced such as the APG-79 radar in later lots. These upgrades enabled VFA-87 to conduct multi-role missions with greater range, survivability, and precision strike capabilities, aligning with evolving threats in contested environments. The single-seat F/A-18E variant adopted by the squadron emphasized air-to-ground strike roles while retaining air superiority functions. Following the transition, VFA-87 integrated the Super Hornet into Carrier Air Wing 8, conducting carrier qualifications and exercises to validate the platform's performance. The squadron's first major deployment with the F/A-18E occurred aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) in 2017, supporting operations in the U.S. Central Command area. This move enhanced the Golden Warriors' operational flexibility, allowing sustained presence in high-tempo scenarios with reduced logistical demands compared to the smaller legacy airframe.

Operational History

Establishment and Initial Deployments (1968–1970s)

Attack Squadron 87 (VA-87), nicknamed the Golden Warriors, was established on 1 1968 at , , as the U.S. Navy's first operational squadron equipped with the LTV A-7B Corsair II light . The squadron conducted initial training and work-up operations at Cecil Field, supplemented by exercises at NAS Fallon, Nevada, and , , to achieve operational readiness with the subsonic A-7B, which emphasized precision ground attack capabilities using advanced navigation and bombing systems. VA-87's inaugural deployment occurred from 1 February to 18 September 1969 with Carrier Air Wing 16 (CVW-16) aboard USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14) to Southeast Asia, marking the squadron's combat debut. The first combat sorties were flown on 4 March 1969 against targets in South Vietnam, contributing to ongoing Rolling Thunder operations with close air support and interdiction missions. In April 1969, following the North Korean shootdown of a U.S. EC-121 reconnaissance aircraft, VA-87 shifted to the Sea of Japan for contingency operations supporting heightened U.S. naval presence in response to the incident. In August 1970, VA-87 transitioned to 6 (CVW-6) and conducted multiple Mediterranean deployments through the 1970s aboard USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CVA-42) in 1971, 1972, January 1973–March 1974 (including support for U.S. interests during the October 1973 Arab-Israeli War), and January–July 1975; in April–October 1976 and September 1977–April 1978; and in June–December 1979. These six-to-eight-month cruises focused on fleet exercises, interoperability, and crisis response, such as assisting in the evacuation of U.S. citizens from in 1976 following the assassination of the U.S. ambassador. During this period, the squadron upgraded to the A-7E Corsair II in 1975, incorporating enhanced , increased payload capacity, and engines for improved range and loiter time.

Cold War Operations (1980s)

In 1981, during the ongoing Iran hostage crisis and heightened Israeli-Syrian tensions, VA-87 deployed aboard USS Independence (CV-62) to the Mediterranean and Middle East regions for 195 days as part of Carrier Air Wing 6 (CVW-6), maintaining naval presence amid Cold War proxy conflicts. The squadron conducted a follow-on deployment in 1982 to the aboard the same carrier in response to the escalating Iran-Iraq War, supporting U.S. efforts to deter Soviet influence in the Persian Gulf and protect vital oil shipping lanes. VA-87's most notable Cold War operation occurred in October 1983 during Operation Urgent Fury, the U.S.-led invasion of to restore democratic governance and evacuate American citizens following a Marxist coup. Operating A-7E Corsair IIs from USS Independence, the squadron flew and strike missions, including sorties over Point Salines airfield to neutralize Cuban-constructed defenses and support Marine and Army Ranger assaults launched on October 25. During the same 1983–1984 deployment, in the aftermath of the October 23 Beirut barracks bombing that killed 241 U.S. service members, VA-87 participated in retaliatory strikes against terrorist infrastructure, targeting Syrian and Palestinian camps in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley to degrade and PLO capabilities aligned with Soviet-backed adversaries.

Gulf War and Post-Cold War Engagements (1990s)

![F-18As of VFA-87 with A-6E during 1991 Gulf War][float-right] On 28 December 1990, following Iraq's invasion of , VFA-87 embarked on USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) and deployed to the Persian Gulf region for Operation Desert Storm. The squadron, operating F/A-18A Hornets, conducted 629 combat sorties over 43 days of intense operations, delivering precision strikes against Iraqi military targets in support of coalition efforts to liberate . These missions included and interdiction strikes, contributing to the degradation of Iraqi infrastructure. Following the ground campaign's conclusion in late February 1991, VFA-87 shifted to post-combat operations, including support for to deliver humanitarian aid and enforce protections for in northern . The squadron also participated in , transiting hastily to the to enforce the UN-mandated over Bosnia-Herzegovina amid escalating Yugoslav conflicts; over four months, pilots flew combat sorties targeting Serb forces violating restrictions. Throughout the mid-1990s, VFA-87 maintained engagement in containment operations against under , enforcing the southern to prevent Iraqi air incursions and suppress regime threats to Shiite populations. In July 1992, the squadron returned to the aboard , executing 176 combat missions that included armed reconnaissance and strikes on Iraqi and air defense sites. A subsequent deployment from October 1996 to June 1999 covered the Mediterranean and , incorporating additional Southern Watch patrols to uphold UN resolutions. These efforts underscored the squadron's role in post-Cold War stability operations, logging thousands of flight hours amid shifting global threats.

Global War on Terror: Iraq and Afghanistan (2000s)

In early 2003, VFA-87, operating F/A-18C Hornets as part of Carrier Air Wing 8 (CVW-8) embarked on USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), conducted strike missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from the northern Arabian Sea. The squadron flew combat sorties targeting Iraqi military infrastructure and forces during the initial invasion phase, contributing to coalition efforts to dismantle Saddam Hussein's regime. These operations marked VFA-87's first major combat engagement in the Iraq theater, with aircraft launching from the carrier positioned to enable rapid response strikes. Following the transition to F/A-18A+ aircraft in late 2006, VFA-87 undertook additional combat deployments aligned with the Global War on Terror. From September 2008 to April 2009, again with CVW-8 on USS Theodore Roosevelt, the squadron executed and precision strikes against and targets in under . Operating from the North , Golden Warrior pilots struck insurgent positions, providing critical support to ground forces amid intensified fighting in regional valleys and border areas. This deployment highlighted the squadron's role in sustaining maritime-based airpower for persistent operations in landlocked theaters. These missions underscored VFA-87's adaptability in multidomain strike roles, leveraging carrier mobility to project power without reliance on forward bases vulnerable to ground threats. No squadron losses were reported during these specific 2000s operations, reflecting effective training and aircraft reliability amid high-tempo sorties.

Operations Against ISIS: Syria and Regional Missions (2010s)

In support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the U.S.-led coalition campaign against the Islamic State (ISIS), VFA-87 embarked on USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) from January 21 to August 21, 2017, conducting airstrikes primarily targeting ISIS positions in Syria while also supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. The squadron flew 623 combat sorties, logging 3,551 flight hours with F/A-18E Super Hornets, focusing on close air support for ground partners like the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) advancing on ISIS-held territories such as Raqqa and Tabqah. These missions involved precision-guided munitions against ISIS command centers, vehicle convoys, and fighting positions, contributing to the territorial losses inflicted on the group during its caliphate phase. A pivotal engagement occurred on , 2017, near Tabqah, , when an F/A-18E from VFA-87, piloted by Lt. Cmdr. Michael Tremel, downed a Syrian Arab Air Force Su-22M4 bomber with an AIM-9X Sidewinder missile after it bombed SDF positions allied with coalition forces battling . The incident, the first air-to-air victory for the Super Hornet platform, was authorized as defensive action to safeguard U.S.-partnered troops from Syrian interference in anti- operations, amid overlapping Russian and Syrian airstrikes in the same . No further direct aerial engagements followed for the squadron during the deployment, but routine patrols enforced deconfliction with Russian forces via established channels to prioritize targets. Regional missions extended VFA-87's role beyond , including strikes on remnants in Iraq's Anbar Province and support for Afghan against ISIS-Khorasan affiliates, reflecting the operation's broader scope across the and . The squadron's efforts aligned with coalition metrics showing over 20,000 fighters killed by airstrikes by mid-2017, though ground maneuver by partners remained decisive for territorial gains. Post-deployment, VFA-87 transitioned to training cycles at , maintaining readiness for persistent regional threats.

Indo-Pacific Focus and Recent Deployments (2020s)

In early 2020, VFA-87 transitioned temporarily to 11 (CVW-11) to support operations in the region, marking a strategic alignment with U.S. priorities in the Western Pacific amid heightened tensions in the . The squadron embarked on for an initial deployment departing on January 17, 2020, conducting flight operations including launches of F/A-18E Super Hornets from VFA-87 as part of routine activities before the deployment was curtailed in April 2020 due to a outbreak aboard the carrier. Following recovery and a sustainment exercise, VFA-87 rejoined CVW-11 for a second deployment aboard starting December 7, 2020, and concluding May 25, 2021, which included transits through the and port visits to and to enhance and deterrence presence. These deployments underscored VFA-87's role in projecting power across the , with the squadron logging thousands of flight hours in support of and joint exercises, though specific metrics for VFA-87 sorties remain classified or unreleased in public records. Upon completion, VFA-87 returned to administrative control under Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic and operational alignment with Carrier Air Wing 8 (CVW-8) by late 2021, shifting focus back to Atlantic and European theaters. In subsequent years, VFA-87 participated in CVW-8 deployments emphasizing European and Mediterranean operations rather than sustained presence. The squadron deployed aboard (CVN-78) from May 2, 2023, to January 15, 2024, conducting over 10,000 flight hours across the U.S. 6th Fleet area, including integrated deterrence activities with allies. A follow-on deployment commenced June 24, 2025, again with CVW-8 on Gerald R. Ford, focusing on the European theater with port calls in , , and to support 's Neptune Strike and enhanced vigilance operations. These missions highlighted VFA-87's versatility in F/A-18E operations but reflected the squadron's primary East Coast basing constraints, with no publicly documented return to extended rotations post-2021 as of October 2025.

Personnel and Achievements

Notable Squadron Members

Lieutenant Commander Michael Tremel, a pilot assigned to during its 2017 deployment aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77), achieved the first confirmed U.S. Navy air-to-air victory since the 1991 on June 18, 2017, when he fired an missile from his F/A-18E Super Hornet to down a Syrian Arab Air Force Su-22 near Tabqah, , after the aircraft bombed U.S.-backed . Tremel's action followed warnings issued to the Su-22 pilot and was executed in amid threats to partners, marking a rare fixed-wing engagement in the campaign against . Admiral , who commanded VFA-87 starting in May 1987, later rose to prominent roles including Commander of U.S. Northern Command and U.S. Pacific Command, overseeing operations across vast theaters during his 38-year career that included Vietnam War-era service and deployments. His leadership of the squadron preceded transitions to F/A-18 Hornets and contributed to its operational readiness in War-era Mediterranean deployments aboard . Captain Dominic L. Pudwill Gorie served as a in VFA-87 during early 1990s deployments with Carrier Air Wing 8 on USS Theodore Roosevelt, logging combat hours in F/A-18C Hornets before becoming a astronaut who commanded (1998) and (2002) missions, accumulating over 800 hours in space. Admiral , who commanded VFA-87 as part of his early career in strike fighter operations, advanced to and Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, amassing over 4,750 flight hours in naval aircraft while contributing to squadron tactics during transitions from A-7 Corsairs to Super Hornets.

Key Commanders and Leadership

The squadron was established as Attack Squadron 87 (VA-87) on February 1, 1968, under the command of CDR Thomas E. Dunlop, who served until May 2, 1969, and oversaw initial training and organization at [Naval Air Station Cecil Field](/page/Naval Air Station Cecil Field), . Subsequent early commanders, including CDR Walter H. McCall (May 1969–March 1970) and CDR Robert W. McKay (March 1970–March 1971), directed the unit's first deployments aboard aircraft carriers such as and USS Saratoga. The transition to strike fighter operations occurred under CDR Raymond A. Dudderar (November 1985–May 1987), who managed the retirement of the A-7E Corsair II and the squadron's redesignation as VFA-87 on May 1, 1986, marking the adoption of the F/A-18C Hornet. CDR Timothy J. Keating followed (May 1987–January 1989), leading initial Hornet qualifications and carrier operations that built the squadron's multirole capabilities. CDR John C. Stencil commanded from June 1990 onward, during which VFA-87 conducted combat missions in the 1991 . In the Global War on Terror era, commanders directed missions supporting Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, including deployments aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS George H.W. Bush. More recently, CDR Jason Dalby led the squadron during its 2020 deployment on USS Theodore Roosevelt, managing operations amid a COVID-19 outbreak that sidelined the carrier. As of 2024, CDR John C. Schnepper serves as commanding officer, a naval aviator with over 2,700 flight hours and 600 carrier arrested landings. Leadership continuity emphasizes rigorous training, combat readiness, and adaptation to advanced aircraft like the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.

Awards, Recognitions, and Combat Effectiveness Metrics

VFA-87 has received the Battle Efficiency Award, known as the Battle "E", for superior performance in 2005 and again in 2006, marking consecutive achievements that highlighted the squadron's operational excellence and readiness during a period of transition to advanced F/A-18E Super Hornet capabilities. Following its 2023 deployment aboard , the squadron earned a from 8 for the Safety "S" Award, recognizing exemplary safety standards amid high-tempo operations that included over 1,000 flight hours without incident. In terms of combat effectiveness, VFA-87 flew 629 sorties during Operation Desert Storm from December 1990 to February 1991, contributing to coalition efforts over and while operating from USS over 43 days of sustained combat. The squadron's participation in Operation included executing 623 combat sorties totaling 3,551 flight hours across , , and during a 2017-2018 deployment, demonstrating sustained precision strike capabilities against ISIS targets.

References

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