About this Unit
Fleet Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron 63 (VFP-63), based at NAS Miramar, California, was a United States Navy squadron established in 1949. The unit specialized in photographic reconnaissance missions, initially operating the F9F-6P Cougar and later the RF-8 Crusader aircraft. VFP-63 played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, providing vital aerial intelligence and battle damage assessment for carrier strike groups. The squadron was disestablished in 1982 as newer reconnaissance technologies and platforms became available.
Historical Facts
• Origins: VFP-63 (Fleet Composite Squadron 63) was originally established as VJ-63 on September 1, 1949, and redesignated as VFP-63 in July 1956, specializing in photographic reconnaissance.
• Base Location: The squadron was primarily based at NAS Miramar in San Diego, California, a major hub for US Navy aviation.
• Aircraft Operated: VFP-63 flew several versions of the photo-reconnaissance variant of the F-8 Crusader, notably the RF-8A and later the RF-8G, which were equipped with advanced camera systems in place of guns.
• Cuban Missile Crisis: During the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, VFP-63 pilots flew low-level photo reconnaissance missions over Cuba from aircraft carriers, providing crucial intelligence on Soviet missile sites.
• Vietnam War Service: The unit was heavily involved in the Vietnam War, conducting reconnaissance missions over North Vietnam to gather vital imagery for targeting and battle damage assessment.
• Nickname: VFP-63 was known as the "Eyes of the Fleet" due to their critical intelligence-gathering role for naval operations.
• Carrier Deployments: The squadron regularly deployed detachments aboard aircraft carriers, integrating with various carrier air wings throughout the Pacific Fleet.
• End of the Line: VFP-63 was disestablished on January 1, 1982, as advancements in reconnaissance satellites and newer aircraft like the F-14 Tomcat with TARPS pods made their specialized role obsolete.
• Decorations: VFP-63 received numerous awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation, for their outstanding service and bravery during high-risk missions.
• Legacy: The squadron's legacy lives on in the history of naval aviation reconnaissance and is commemorated by former members and aviation museums, notably for their daring missions and technological innovations.
