About this Unit
Patrol Squadron 4 (VP-4), known as the "Skinny Dragons," is a United States Navy maritime patrol squadron originally established in 1943. During World War II, VP-4 conducted anti-submarine and reconnaissance missions across the Pacific theater, playing a key role in securing sea lanes. Over the decades, the squadron transitioned through several aircraft, including the P-2 Neptune, P-3 Orion, and currently operates the P-8A Poseidon. VP-4 has participated in numerous Cold War, post-Cold War, and modern operations, providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) support in various global theaters.
Historical Facts
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One of the Oldest Patrol Squadrons: VP-4 (“Skinny Dragons”) is one of the U.S. Navy’s oldest maritime patrol squadrons, first established on 1 May 1943 during World War II.
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Multiple Designations: VP-4 has undergone several redesignations since its inception, including VB-144, VPB-144, VP-144, VP-ML-4, and finally VP-4 in 1948.
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PBY Catalina and Beyond: The squadron initially flew the PBY Catalina, later transitioning to the PV-2 Harpoon, P2V Neptune, P-3 Orion, and currently the P-8A Poseidon.
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“Skinny Dragons” Nickname: The unit’s nickname comes from its patch, which features a stylized, thin Asian dragon, symbolizing its long deployments in the Pacific.
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WWII Pacific Operations: VP-4 conducted anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue missions across the Pacific, including the Aleutian Islands and the Philippines, during WWII.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: VP-4 played a patrol and surveillance role during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, helping enforce the naval quarantine of Cuba.
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Vietnam War Service: The squadron was heavily involved in operations during the Vietnam War, flying combat and reconnaissance missions from bases like NAS Sangley Point in the Philippines.
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Award-Winning Unit: VP-4 has received numerous awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, and the Battle “E” for operational excellence.
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Forward-Deployed Legacy: For decades, VP-4 was homeported at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, before relocating to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, in 2016.
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Modern Deployments: In recent years, VP-4 has deployed globally for anti-submarine warfare, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue operations, supporting U.S. and allied missions worldwide.
