VF-43

• VF-43 Origins: Fighter Squadron 43 (VF-43) was originally established as VF-74A on 1 May 1945, but was quickly redesignated as VF-74 on 1 August 1945, and then as VF-43 on 15 November 1946. • Multiple Designations: The unit went through several designation changes, including VA-43 and then back to VF-43, reflecting its changing roles and aircraft assignments throughout its history. • Korean War Service: VF-43 (as VA-43) did not see direct combat in Korea, but contributed to the training of pilots and aircrew who did participate in the Korean War. • Aircraft Operated: Over its lifetime, VF-43 operated a wide variety of aircraft including the F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, FJ Fury, A-4 Skyhawk, and F-21A Kfir, among others. • Adversary Training: In the 1970s and 1980s, VF-43 became one of the Navy's premier adversary squadrons, simulating enemy tactics and aircraft for fleet training—a real-life "Top Gun" squadron. • Unique Kfir Operations: VF-43 was one of the few U.S. Navy squadrons to fly the Israeli-built F-21A Kfir, which was used to simulate Soviet MiG fighters during air combat training. • Disestablishment: The squadron was officially disestablished on 1 July 1994 as part of post-Cold War reductions, after nearly 50 years of service to the U.S. Navy. • Location: VF-43 was based at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, Virginia, a major hub for U.S. Navy fighter aviation. • Nickname: The squadron was known as the "Challengers" during its later years, reflecting its role as a formidable opponent in training exercises. • Legacy: Many of the adversary training roles and traditions of VF-43 have been carried on by other units, such as VFC-12, ensuring its influence continues in Navy fighter training.