About this Unit
Fighter Squadron 2 (VF-2), also known as the "Bounty Hunters," is a distinguished United States Navy fighter squadron originally established on October 14, 1972. VF-2 was first equipped with the F-14A Tomcat and deployed aboard the USS Enterprise, participating in operations including the Vietnam War’s final stages and later Cold War missions. The squadron earned a reputation for excellence in air combat and fleet defense, notably during deployments in the Persian Gulf and Operation Desert Storm. In 1993, the unit was redesignated as VFA-2 and transitioned to flying the F/A-18F Super Hornet, continuing its legacy as a premier carrier-based strike fighter squadron.
Historical Facts
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VF-2, the "Bounty Hunters": Fighter Squadron 2 (VF-2), nicknamed the "Bounty Hunters," is a famous U.S. Navy fighter squadron first established in June 1972.
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F-14 Tomcat Pioneers: VF-2 was one of the first squadrons to fly the legendary Grumman F-14 Tomcat, receiving its first aircraft in 1973.
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Combat Debut in Operation Frequent Wind: VF-2 saw its first combat action during Operation Frequent Wind, the evacuation of Saigon in 1975, providing air cover for U.S. forces.
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Iran Hostage Crisis: In 1980, VF-2 deployed aboard USS Ranger to the Indian Ocean in response to the Iran Hostage Crisis, demonstrating U.S. naval power and readiness.
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Operation Desert Storm: VF-2 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying combat missions over Iraq and providing air superiority for coalition forces.
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Record-Setting Deployment: During its 1974-1975 deployment on USS Enterprise, VF-2 set a record by flying over 1,400 hours in a single month—an impressive feat for carrier-based aviation.
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Hollywood Fame: VF-2 and its F-14s appeared in the movie The Final Countdown (1980), which featured the USS Nimitz, bringing attention to naval aviation.
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Transition to F/A-18F Super Hornet: In 2003, VF-2 was redesignated as VFA-2 and transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, continuing its legacy as a multirole strike fighter squadron.
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Notable Insignia: The squadron’s insignia—a skull and crossbones—pays homage to the famous "Jolly Rogers," but with its own unique "Bounty Hunters" identity.
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Long-Standing Excellence: VF-2 has earned numerous awards, including the prestigious Battle "E" for battle efficiency and safety awards, attesting to its professionalism and combat effectiveness.
