RVAH-3
Reconnaissance Attack (Heavy) Squadron 3 | |
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RVAH-3 squadron patch
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Active | 15 June 1956-17 August 1979 |
Country | United States |
Branch | United States Navy |
Role | Photo-reconnaissance |
Part of | Inactive |
Nickname(s) | Sea Dragons |
RVAH-3 was a Reconnaissance Attack (Heavy) Squadron of the U.S. Navy. Originally established as Heavy Attack Squadron Three (VAH-3) on 15 June 1956 it was redesignated as Reconnaissance Attack (Heavy) Squadron Three (RVAH-3) on 1 July 1964. The squadron was disestablished on 17 August 1979.[1]
Contents
Operational history
VAH-3
VAH-3 was originally equipped with the A-3D1 Skywarrior and made its only operational cruise in the Mediterranean in 1958. In mid-1958 the squadron was merged with the Atlantic Fleet's Heavy Attack Training Unit and designated as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, inheriting a mix of aircraft including R4D-7s and F9F-8Ts and A-3D-2Ts.[2]
VAH-3 received its first A3J-1s in June 1961. In December 1963 VAH-3 received its first RA-5Cs.[3]
The last A-3 Skywarrior class graduated in January 1964, however RVAH-3 would continue to operate the TA-3B until its disestablishment[2]
Home port assignments
The squadron was assigned to these home ports:[2]
Aircraft Assignment
- A-3D1/A-3D-2T/TA-3B Skywarrior
- R4D-7/C-117 Skytrain
- F9F-8T Cougar
- TA-4J Skyhawk
- A3J-1/RA-5C Vigilante
See also
- Reconnaissance aircraft
- List of inactive United States Navy aircraft squadrons
- History of the United States Navy