VA-86

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About VA-86

Attack Squadron 86 (VA-86), known as the "Sidewinders," was established in 1955 by the United States Navy. Initially flying the FJ-3 Fury, the squadron later transitioned to the A-4 Skyhawk and then to the A-7 Corsair II, participating in major operations during the Vietnam War and the Gulf of Sidra incidents. VA-86 played a key role in enforcing U.S. policies during the Cold War, including deployments to the Mediterranean and support for operations in Lebanon and Libya. The squadron was disestablished in 1995 after four decades of distinguished service.

Unit Members

Michael Goddard

U.S. Navy

VA-86View Profile

Harold Corn

U.S. Navy

VA-86View Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About VA-86

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Establishment: Attack Squadron 86 (VA-86), known as the "Sidewinders," was established on 15 February 1951. • Early Aircraft: VA-86 originally flew the FG-1D Corsair, a piston-engine fighter bomber, before transitioning to jet-powered aircraft. • Carrier Deployments: The squadron made its first deployment on USS Midway (CV-41) in 1952, supporting NATO operations in the Mediterranean. • Vietnam War: VA-86 participated extensively in the Vietnam War, flying A-7 Corsair II aircraft on combat missions from aircraft carriers. • Libya Operations: In 1986, VA-86 took part in Operation El Dorado Canyon, the U.S. retaliatory air strike against Libyan targets. • Transition to F/A-18: VA-86 transitioned to the F/A-18C Hornet in 1987 and was re-designated as Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (VFA-86). • Unique Nickname: The squadron’s nickname, "Sidewinders," refers to the venomous snake, symbolizing the unit’s striking power and agility. • Desert Storm: VA-86 played a key role in Operation Desert Storm (1991), conducting strike missions from USS America (CV-66). • Decorations: The squadron earned multiple awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation, for its operational excellence. • Deactivation: VA-86 was deactivated on 30 September 2005, concluding over five decades of distinguished service.