VFA-113

• Nickname - "Stingers": Strike Fighter Squadron 113 (VFA-113) is famously known as the “Stingers,” a name inspired by their aggressive bee insignia and combat prowess. • Established in 1948: VFA-113 was originally commissioned as Fighter Squadron 113 (VF-113) on July 15, 1948, making it one of the oldest continuously active Navy squadrons. • Korean War Combat Debut: The squadron saw its first combat during the Korean War, flying the F8F Bearcat and then transitioning to the F4U Corsair, conducting ground-attack and close-air support missions. • First Navy Squadron to Deploy with F9F-1 Panther: VFA-113 was the first Navy squadron to deploy with the F9F-1 Panther jet, marking a shift from propeller to jet-powered aircraft. • Vietnam War Operations: The Stingers flew the A-4 Skyhawk during the Vietnam War, participating in multiple combat cruises and establishing a reputation for precision strike missions. • Transition to the F/A-18 Hornet: In 1983, VFA-113 became one of the first operational squadrons to transition to the F/A-18A Hornet, embracing the multi-role fighter/attack concept. • Gulf War Service: VFA-113 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying over 500 combat sorties from USS Independence (CV-62) and delivering precision-guided munitions on strategic targets. • Carrier Air Wing 14 (CVW-14) Attachment: The squadron has a long association with Carrier Air Wing 14, deploying aboard various Nimitz-class carriers including USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Ronald Reagan. • Modernization to F/A-18E Super Hornet: In 2016, the Stingers upgraded to the F/A-18E Super Hornet, enhancing their combat capabilities with advanced avionics and weapons systems. • Global Deployments and Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, VFA-113 has participated in numerous humanitarian operations, including disaster relief in the Indian Ocean and Pacific regions, showcasing their versatility and commitment to global security.