About this Unit
Patrol Squadron 26 (VP-26), known as the “Tridents,” is a distinguished U.S. Navy maritime patrol squadron established in 1943. Originally flying the PB4Y-1 Liberator, VP-26 conducted anti-submarine warfare and reconnaissance missions during World War II. Over the decades, the squadron transitioned through several aircraft, including the P-3 Orion and currently the P-8A Poseidon, expanding its capabilities in surveillance, intelligence gathering, and anti-surface warfare. VP-26 has participated in numerous operations worldwide, consistently demonstrating excellence in maritime patrol and contributing to U.S. and allied security.
Historical Facts
• Origins in WWII: Patrol Squadron 26 (VP-26), known as the "Tridents," was originally established in 1943 as Bombing Squadron 114 (VB-114) during World War II, flying the PB4Y-1 Liberator in anti-submarine and maritime patrol missions in the Atlantic.
• Squadron Redesignations: The unit underwent several redesignations, becoming VPB-114, VP-114, VP-HL-6, and finally VP-26 in 1948, reflecting changes in Navy patrol squadron nomenclature.
• Cold War Patrols: During the Cold War, VP-26 played a crucial role in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and surveillance missions, monitoring Soviet naval activity in the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
• Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, VP-26 aircraft were part of the U.S. Navy's efforts to enforce the naval quarantine of Cuba, conducting reconnaissance flights to track Soviet shipping during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
• Vietnam War Service: The squadron deployed to Southeast Asia, flying the P-3 Orion in support of Operation Market Time, which aimed to interdict the flow of supplies to North Vietnamese forces by sea.
• Historic Aircraft: VP-26 was one of the first squadrons to operate the advanced P-3C Update III Orion, a major upgrade in maritime patrol technology, enhancing anti-submarine and electronic surveillance capabilities.
• Global Deployments: The Tridents have operated around the world, including deployments to Iceland, Spain, Italy, Bahrain, Japan, and the Indian Ocean, reflecting their global reach and strategic importance.
• Humanitarian Missions: VP-26 has participated in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, such as providing surveillance and coordination during the aftermath of natural disasters like hurricanes and tsunamis.
• Transition to P-8 Poseidon: In 2023, VP-26 completed its transition from the P-3C Orion to the state-of-the-art Boeing P-8A Poseidon, marking a new era for the squadron in maritime patrol and reconnaissance.
• Motto and Legacy: VP-26’s motto is "Ready for All Things," reflecting their reputation for operational excellence and adaptability over more than 80 years of continuous service in the U.S. Navy.
