About this Unit
VAQ-308, known as the "Griffins," was a U.S. Navy Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron established in 1979 at Naval Air Facility Washington, Maryland. The unit was part of the Naval Reserve Force and flew the EA-6A Intruder and later the EA-6B Prowler, specializing in electronic attack and jamming enemy radar and communications. VAQ-308 provided essential electronic warfare support during training exercises and fleet operations, augmenting active-duty squadrons. The squadron was deactivated in 1994 as part of post-Cold War force reductions.
Historical Facts
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Establishment and Role: VAQ-308, known as the “Griffins,” was a United States Navy Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron established on May 2, 1970. Its primary role was to provide electronic warfare support, including jamming enemy radars and communications.
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Reserve Squadron: VAQ-308 was a Naval Air Reserve squadron, making it unique as it operated with reserve personnel and resources while still maintaining high operational readiness.
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Home Base: The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington State, a major hub for electronic warfare units in the Navy.
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Aircraft Operated: VAQ-308 flew the EA-6A Intruder, an electronic warfare variant of the A-6 Intruder, and later transitioned to the more advanced EA-6B Prowler.
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Nickname and Insignia: Their official nickname was the “Griffins,” and their squadron insignia featured a mythological griffin, symbolizing vigilance and strength.
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Cold War Service: The squadron was active during the height of the Cold War, providing critical electronic warfare training and support for fleet operations, and was ready to deploy in case of major conflict.
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Training Role: VAQ-308 played an important part in training both reserve and active-duty personnel in the complex tactics and technologies associated with electronic warfare.
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Deactivation: The squadron was deactivated on September 30, 1987, as part of a broader post-Cold War reduction in U.S. Navy reserve electronic warfare squadrons.
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Legacy of Personnel: Many of the squadron’s members went on to serve in other Navy squadrons or to instruct the next generation of electronic warfare aviators.
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Unique Achievements: VAQ-308 was one of the few reserve squadrons to operate the sophisticated EA-6B Prowler, a testament to their proficiency and the trust placed in them by the Navy.
