About this Unit
Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 113 (VAW-113), also known as the "Black Eagles," was established on April 20, 1967. The squadron provides airborne early warning and command and control capabilities, primarily operating the E-2 Hawkeye aircraft. VAW-113 has participated in major conflicts and operations, including the Vietnam War, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, supporting carrier strike group deployments in the Pacific and Middle East. Over the decades, the unit has earned numerous awards for operational excellence and continues to play a vital role in U.S. Navy carrier operations.
Historical Facts
• Establishment: Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 113 (VAW-113), known as the “Black Eagles,” was established on April 20, 1967, at NAS Miramar, California.
• Vietnam War Service: VAW-113 deployed in support of the Vietnam War shortly after its creation, flying the E-2A Hawkeye in airborne early warning and control missions over Southeast Asia.
• Calls Sign 'Black Eagle': The squadron’s radio call sign, “Black Eagle,” was chosen to symbolize watchfulness and vigilance in the skies.
• Aircraft Evolution: VAW-113 has operated multiple variants of the E-2 Hawkeye, transitioning from the E-2A to the E-2B, E-2C, and currently the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye.
• Desert Storm Deployment: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, VAW-113 provided crucial command and control, coordinating air assets over the Persian Gulf from USS Independence (CV-62).
• ‘Battle E’ Awards: The squadron has earned numerous Battle Efficiency (“Battle E”) awards, recognizing their operational excellence among carrier airborne early warning squadrons.
• Humanitarian Operations: VAW-113 participated in humanitarian missions, including Operation Tomodachi, providing disaster relief in Japan after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.
• Carrier Assignments: Over its history, VAW-113 has been assigned to many aircraft carriers, including USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), and USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76).
• Global Deployments: The squadron has deployed to the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf, and has been forward-deployed in Japan as part of Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5).
• Motto and Emblem: The squadron’s motto is “Eyes of the Fleet,” and its emblem features a black eagle clutching a radar scope—emphasizing its mission of airborne surveillance and control.
