Patrol Squadron 8 (VP-8), known as the “Fighting Tigers,” was established in September 1942 during World War II. Originally flying the PBY Catalina and later the PB4Y-1 Liberator, the squadron conducted anti-submarine warfare and maritime patrol missions in the Atlantic and Caribbean. Over the decades, VP-8 transitioned to various maritime patrol aircraft, including the P-2 Neptune, P-3 Orion, and currently the P-8A Poseidon. Throughout its history, VP-8 has participated in key operations such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, Cold War patrols, and modern global anti-submarine and reconnaissance missions, earning a reputation for operational excellence.
