VA-43

Attack Squadron 43 (VA-43), known as the "Challengers," was a United States Navy attack squadron established in 1950 as Fighter Squadron 43 (VF-43) before being redesignated as VA-43 in 1959. Initially operating as a fleet replacement training squadron, VA-43 played a key role in training pilots to fly jet aircraft such as the F9F Panther and later the A-4 Skyhawk. Stationed primarily at Naval Air Station Oceana, the squadron provided essential instruction in carrier-based attack tactics throughout the 1960s. VA-43 was disestablished in 1971, having contributed significantly to the development and readiness of Navy attack aviators during the Cold War era.