VFAW-3

• VFAW-3 Stands for "Fighter All-Weather Squadron 3": The squadron was officially designated as VFAW-3 (Fighter All-Weather Squadron 3), reflecting its specialized role in all-weather jet fighter operations. • Activated in 1943: The unit was originally established as VF-3 in 1943 during World War II, and later redesignated as VFAW-3 on 1 December 1952. • Unique Air Force-Navy Integration: VFAW-3 was unique for being a Navy squadron assigned to the U.S. Air Force’s Air Defense Command at NAS North Island, supporting continental air defense as part of NORAD. • Equipped with F2H Banshee and F4D Skyray: The squadron operated McDonnell F2H Banshee and later transitioned to the Douglas F4D Skyray, one of the first Navy squadrons to do so. • All-Weather Interceptor Mission: VFAW-3’s primary mission was to provide all-weather air defense and interception, a critical role during the Cold War. • Naval Aviation in Continental Defense: The assignment of a Navy fighter squadron to NORAD was an unusual experiment in joint operations, reflecting Cold War urgency and inter-service cooperation. • Short-Lived Existence: VFAW-3 was disestablished on 1 May 1958, making its tenure as an all-weather interceptor squadron a relatively brief but notable chapter in U.S. military history. • Based at NAS North Island, California: Its main base of operations was the historic Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, a hub for naval aviation. • Supersonic Achievements: With the F4D Skyray, VFAW-3 pilots were among the first Navy aviators to routinely fly supersonic missions as part of their air defense patrols. • Legacy of Joint Service Experimentation: Although short-lived, VFAW-3’s cross-service assignment paved the way for future joint operations and inter-service collaboration, influencing later defense strategies.