About this Unit
Tactical Air Control Squadron 22 (TACRON 22) is a United States Navy unit responsible for providing air control and coordination for amphibious operations. Established in 1951, TACRON 22 has supported numerous exercises, operations, and deployments, ensuring effective communication and control between Navy ships and embarked Marine Corps aviation elements. The squadron has played key roles in major operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and numerous humanitarian missions. TACRON 22 continues to deliver critical air traffic control and battle management capabilities to amphibious ready groups and expeditionary strike groups worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins: Tactical Air Control Squadron 22 (TACRON 22) was originally commissioned as VTC-22 in 1944, supporting amphibious operations in the Pacific during World War II.
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Post-WWII Deactivation and Reactivation: After World War II, the squadron was deactivated but was later reactivated in response to changing military needs during the Cold War.
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Role in Amphibious Operations: TACRON 22 specializes in providing air control for U.S. Navy amphibious assault operations, coordinating air traffic between ships and landing forces.
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Vietnam War Service: TACRON 22 personnel played a key role in air control and coordination during amphibious operations in the Vietnam War, enhancing the effectiveness of Marine landings.
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Modernization: The squadron has continually updated its communications and air control technology, transitioning from analog radios to state-of-the-art digital systems.
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Nickname: TACRON 22 is often referred to as "Tigers," a nod to their aggressive and agile approach to tactical air control.
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Humanitarian Missions: The squadron has participated in several humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, providing critical air control for relief flights.
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Integration with Marine Units: TACRON 22 frequently trains alongside Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs), ensuring seamless air-ground coordination during joint exercises and deployments.
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Global Deployments: The unit has deployed with Amphibious Ready Groups (ARGs) and Expeditionary Strike Groups (ESGs) around the world, from the Mediterranean to the Western Pacific.
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Unit Insignia: TACRON 22's distinctive insignia features a tiger and lightning bolt, symbolizing speed, power, and precision in tactical air control.