About this Unit
Reconnaissance Attack Squadron 12 (RVAH-12) was a U.S. Navy squadron established on 1 November 1965 as part of the transition to the RA-5C Vigilante, a high-speed reconnaissance aircraft. The unit played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War, conducting critical photographic reconnaissance missions over hostile territory from aircraft carriers. Throughout its service, RVAH-12 participated in numerous deployments with the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets, earning several commendations for its operational effectiveness. The squadron was disestablished on 2 July 1979, following the retirement of the Vigilante from active service.
Historical Facts
•
Establishment: RVAH-12, known as Reconnaissance Attack (Heavy) Squadron 12, was established on January 1, 1961, at Naval Air Station Sanford, Florida.
•
Nickname: The squadron was nicknamed "Speartips" due to its role at the spearhead of reconnaissance missions.
•
Aircraft Operated: RVAH-12 flew the A3D-2P (RA-3B) Skywarrior initially, before transitioning to the RA-5C Vigilante, a high-speed, carrier-based reconnaissance jet.
•
Vietnam War Service: RVAH-12 made multiple combat deployments to Vietnam, conducting photographic reconnaissance missions over heavily-defended enemy territory.
•
Notable Losses: The squadron suffered several aircraft and crew losses during Vietnam operations due to intense anti-aircraft fire and surface-to-air missiles.
•
High-Risk Missions: RVAH-12’s RA-5C Vigilantes were often assigned the most dangerous "post-strike bomb damage assessment" runs, flying into target areas immediately after bombing raids.
•
Cold War Role: Beyond Vietnam, RVAH-12 conducted reconnaissance missions in support of U.S. Navy carrier battle groups during the tense years of the Cold War.
•
Home Bases: The squadron was based at several locations, including NAS Sanford and later NAS Albany, Georgia, before moving to NAS Key West, Florida, due to base closures.
•
Disestablishment: With the retirement of the RA-5C Vigilante and budget cuts, RVAH-12 was disestablished on July 2, 1979, marking the end of an era for carrier-based heavy reconnaissance.
•
Legacy: RVAH-12 personnel and aircraft played a crucial role in advancing naval reconnaissance technology and tactics, and their operational experiences influenced later generations of naval aviators and reconnaissance platforms.
