About this Unit
VAQ-132, known as the "Scorpions," is a distinguished U.S. Navy electronic attack squadron established in 1955. Originally formed as Patrol Squadron (VP) 911 and later redesignated as Heavy Attack Squadron (VAH-132), the unit transitioned to electronic warfare in 1968, becoming the Navy's first operational EA-6B Prowler squadron. Over its history, VAQ-132 has participated in numerous major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Odyssey Dawn. The squadron transitioned to the cutting-edge EA-18G Growler in 2009, continuing its vital mission of electronic attack and suppression of enemy air defenses.
Historical Facts
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First Electronic Attack Squadron: VAQ-132, known as the "Scorpions," was the United States Navy’s first operational electronic attack squadron, initially established as VAW-132 in 1955 and redesignated VAQ-132 in 1968.
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Transition from Propeller to Jet: The squadron originally flew the propeller-driven E-1B Tracer before transitioning to the jet-powered EA-6B Prowler in 1971, marking a significant leap in electronic warfare capability.
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First EA-18G Growler Squadron: In 2009, VAQ-132 became the first operational squadron to transition from the EA-6B Prowler to the EA-18G Growler, the Navy's most advanced electronic attack aircraft.
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Operation Odyssey Dawn: VAQ-132 was the first unit to deploy the EA-18G Growler in combat, supporting Operation Odyssey Dawn over Libya in 2011. They played a pivotal role in suppressing enemy air defenses.
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Nickname and Insignia: The squadron’s nickname, "Scorpions," is reflected in their insignia, which features a menacing scorpion, symbolizing their attack and defense capabilities.
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Carrier Deployments: Over its history, VAQ-132 has deployed aboard multiple aircraft carriers, including the USS Enterprise (CVN-65), USS America (CV-66), and USS George Washington (CVN-73).
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Vietnam War Service: The squadron flew electronic warfare missions during the Vietnam War, providing essential jamming support to strike packages and protecting U.S. aircraft from enemy radar and missiles.
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Home Base: Since 1971, VAQ-132 has been based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, which is the home of all Navy electronic attack squadrons.
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Global Operations: The Scorpions have participated in numerous operations worldwide, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, demonstrating their global reach and importance.
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Legacy of Innovation: VAQ-132 has a history of pioneering new tactics and technologies in electronic warfare, often being the first to operate new systems and platforms, making them a key contributor to U.S. Navy and joint force capabilities.
