About this Unit
Strike Fighter Squadron 146 (VFA-146), known as the "Blue Diamonds," was established on February 1, 1956. Originally flying the F9F-8 Cougar, the squadron has since operated various aircraft, including the A-7 Corsair II and the F/A-18 Hornet. VFA-146 has participated in numerous deployments, supporting combat operations in Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Southern Watch, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Homeported at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, the "Blue Diamonds" continue to serve as a key strike fighter unit within the U.S. Navy's carrier air wings.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Strike Fighter Squadron 146 (VFA-146), known as the "Blue Diamonds," was established on February 1, 1956, originally as Fighter Squadron 146 (VF-146).
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Nickname: The squadron's nickname, "Blue Diamonds," comes from their distinctive blue tail markings and diamond-shaped insignia.
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Aircraft Evolution: VFA-146 has flown a variety of aircraft, starting with the F9F-8 Cougar, then the FJ-4 Fury, F-8 Crusader, A-7 Corsair II, and currently the F/A-18E Super Hornet.
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Vietnam War Action: The Blue Diamonds participated in multiple combat deployments during the Vietnam War, flying thousands of sorties and earning several commendations for their actions.
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First Combat Use of A-7 Corsair II: In 1968, VF-146 was among the first squadrons to deploy the A-7 Corsair II in combat operations during the Vietnam War.
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Transition to Strike Fighter Role: In 1989, the squadron was redesignated from VA-146 (Attack Squadron) to VFA-146, reflecting its new role as a strike fighter squadron equipped with F/A-18 Hornets.
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Operation Desert Storm: VFA-146 took part in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying combat missions from the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) in support of coalition forces.
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Global Deployments: The squadron has completed numerous deployments worldwide, including the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf, and Mediterranean Sea, supporting various U.S. Navy carrier strike groups.
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Emblem Symbolism: The squadron's emblem features a blue diamond with a white aircraft silhouette, symbolizing precision, speed, and naval aviation heritage.
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Ongoing Excellence: VFA-146 continues to operate the advanced F/A-18E Super Hornet from NAS Lemoore, California, maintaining a reputation for professionalism, combat readiness, and support of U.S. Navy operations around the globe.
