About this Unit
Strike Fighter Squadron 34 (VFA-34), known as the "Blue Blasters," is a United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1943. Originally designated as VF-20, the unit served with distinction in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, flying various aircraft including the F6F Hellcat and F-4 Phantom II. In 1990, the squadron was redesignated VFA-34 and transitioned to the F/A-18 Hornet, participating in operations such as Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve. Today, VFA-34 is based at Naval Air Station Oceana and continues to support carrier air wing deployments worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins: Strike Fighter Squadron 34 (VFA-34), known as the "Blue Blasters," was originally established as VF-20A on August 1, 1948, and redesignated VF-34 in 1948 before becoming VFA-34 in 1996.
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Nickname – “Blue Blasters”: Their nickname stems from their original insignia, featuring a hand firing a lightning bolt, symbolizing their striking power.
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Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, VFA-34 has flown several iconic aircraft including the F4U Corsair, F-4 Phantom II, A-6 Intruder, F/A-18C Hornet, and currently the F/A-18E Super Hornet.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The squadron saw combat in the Vietnam War, flying the A-6 Intruder from the aircraft carrier USS Coral Sea.
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Operation Desert Storm: VFA-34 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, carrying out precision bombing missions over Iraq.
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Final Legacy Hornet Deployment: In 2018, VFA-34 became the last operational Navy squadron to deploy with the original F/A-18C Hornet, marking the end of an era for the aircraft.
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Multiple Home Bases: The squadron has been based at several locations, including NAS Oceana and its current home at NAS Oceana in Virginia.
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Hollywood Connection: VFA-34’s F/A-18C Hornets appeared in the popular 2015 film “Top Gun: Maverick” during pre-production and promotional events.
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Global Operations: The Blue Blasters have participated in a wide range of operations, including Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, providing air support over Afghanistan and Iraq.
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Distinctive Insignia: The squadron’s insignia is instantly recognizable, featuring a skull with a lightning bolt, symbolizing their fierce and swift striking capability.
