VF-1

• First US Navy F-14 Squadron: VF-1, also known as the “Wolfpack,” was one of the two original US Navy squadrons to receive the F-14 Tomcat in 1972, marking a new era in naval aviation. • Established in 1972: VF-1 was officially established on 14 October 1972 at Naval Air Station (NAS) Miramar, California. • First Deployment: VF-1 made its first operational deployment aboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65) in 1974, participating in the inaugural F-14 cruise. • Vietnam War Operations: Though the F-14 arrived too late for heavy combat in Vietnam, VF-1’s first deployment included the final months of US involvement and the evacuation of Saigon in 1975. • Notable Engagement in 1981: In 1981, VF-1 Tomcats provided air cover during the Gulf of Sidra incident, where US Navy F-14s shot down two Libyan Su-22s (VF-1 played a supporting but not direct combat role). • PACEX ’89: VF-1 participated in PACEX ’89, the largest naval exercise since World War II, operating in the North Pacific to demonstrate US naval power at the end of the Cold War. • Operation Desert Storm: VF-1 was deployed aboard USS Ranger (CV-61) during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying combat air patrols and escort missions over Iraq and Kuwait. • Unique Tail Code: VF-1 aircraft were recognized by their distinctive “NK” tail code and the fierce red wolf artwork on the tail fins. • Disestablishment: After 22 years of service, VF-1 was disestablished on 1 October 1993, as part of post-Cold War naval reductions and the retirement of the USS Ranger. • Legacy: The Wolfpack’s legacy lives on in aviation history, and the squadron’s insignia and traditions continue to be celebrated by military aviation enthusiasts and veterans.