About this Unit
Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 3 (VMAQ-3), known as the "Moon Dogs," was a United States Marine Corps aviation unit established in 1984. The squadron specialized in electronic warfare, flying the EA-6B Prowler to provide electronic attack, jamming enemy radars, and gathering electronic intelligence. VMAQ-3 participated in numerous operations, including Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, supporting both Marine and joint forces worldwide. The squadron was deactivated in May 2018 as part of the Marine Corps’ transition away from the EA-6B platform.
Historical Facts
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Origins: Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 3 (VMAQ-3) was originally activated as VMC-3 (Marine Composite Squadron 3) on September 15, 1952, at MCAS Miami, Florida.
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Name Changes: The unit underwent several redesignations—from VMC-3 to VMCJ-3 (Marine Composite Reconnaissance Squadron 3) in 1955, and finally to VMAQ-3 in 1975, reflecting its evolving electronic warfare mission.
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Vietnam War Service: As VMCJ-3, the squadron flew electronic countermeasures and reconnaissance missions during the Vietnam War, primarily using the EA-6A "Electric Intruder" and RF-8G aircraft.
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EA-6B Prowler Era: VMAQ-3 transitioned to the EA-6B Prowler in 1984, a four-seat electronic warfare aircraft that became the unit's signature platform for the remainder of its existence.
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Desert Storm: The squadron deployed to Shaikh Isa Air Base, Bahrain, in 1991 to support Operation Desert Storm, flying combat missions to jam enemy radar and communications.
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Balkan Operations: VMAQ-3 participated in Operation Deny Flight and Operation Allied Force in the 1990s, providing electronic attack support over Bosnia and Kosovo.
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Global War on Terror: After 9/11, VMAQ-3 deployed multiple times to support Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, supporting ground forces by suppressing enemy air defenses and communications.
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Nicknamed the "Moondogs": VMAQ-3 adopted the nickname "Moondogs" and used a stylized dog howling at the moon as its squadron insignia.
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Distinguished Safety Record: The squadron was recognized with several awards for safety, including the Chief of Naval Operations Safety Award, reflecting its professional excellence.
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Deactivation: As part of the retirement of the EA-6B Prowler, VMAQ-3 was deactivated on May 11, 2018, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, marking the end of Marine Corps tactical electronic warfare squadrons.
