VFA-83

• Established in 1950: Strike Fighter Squadron 83 (VFA-83), known as the "Rampagers," was originally established as VA-83 on April 1, 1950. • Nickname - "Rampagers": The squadron adopted the nickname "Rampagers" in 1951, a name inspired by their aggressive attack mission profile. • Korean War Service: Although established during the Korean War era, VFA-83 did not deploy to the Korean Peninsula but provided crucial readiness and support. • First Carrier Deployment: Their first carrier deployment was aboard USS Essex (CV-9) in 1951, operating F4U Corsair aircraft. • Transition to Attack Role: Over the years, the squadron flew various aircraft, including the F8F Bearcat, F9F Panther, and A-4 Skyhawk, before settling into the A-7 Corsair II as a light attack unit. • First Combat Missions: The Rampagers flew combat missions during the Vietnam War, providing close air support and strike missions from aircraft carriers. • Operation El Dorado Canyon (1986): VFA-83 participated in the air strikes against Libya, launching from USS Coral Sea (CV-43) in retaliation for terrorist bombings. • Transition to F/A-18 Hornet: In 1987, VA-83 was redesignated VFA-83 and transitioned to the F/A-18C Hornet, becoming a multi-role fighter/attack squadron. • Gulf War Operations: The squadron played a significant role during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying strike and combat air patrol missions from USS Saratoga (CV-60). • Modern Deployments: VFA-83 continues to serve as an operational strike fighter squadron, flying the F/A-18E Super Hornet and deploying with Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) aboard aircraft carriers, supporting global U.S. Navy operations.