About this Unit
Patrol Squadron FIVE (VP-5), known as the "Mad Foxes," was established in 1937 and is one of the U.S. Navy’s oldest maritime patrol squadrons. Initially equipped with P2Y flying boats, VP-5 played a significant role in anti-submarine warfare during World War II, operating in the Atlantic to protect Allied shipping from German U-boats. Over the decades, the squadron transitioned through various aircraft, including the P-3 Orion, and has conducted missions ranging from surveillance and reconnaissance to search and rescue. Today, VP-5 flies the advanced P-8A Poseidon, continuing its legacy of excellence in maritime patrol and reconnaissance operations worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Historic Beginnings: Patrol Squadron 5 (VP-5), also known as the "Mad Foxes," was originally established on 3 September 1937, making it one of the oldest maritime patrol squadrons in the U.S. Navy.
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WWII Service: During World War II, VP-5 conducted anti-submarine warfare (ASW), reconnaissance, and convoy escort missions, playing a significant role in protecting Allied shipping from German U-boats.
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Korean War Action: VP-5 was deployed during the Korean War, where it conducted patrols and surveillance missions to support United Nations forces.
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First U.S. Squadron with P-2V Neptune: VP-5 was among the first U.S. Navy squadrons to operate the P-2V Neptune patrol bomber, a significant leap in maritime patrol technology at the time.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, VP-5 played a critical role by conducting surveillance flights and monitoring Soviet ships in the Caribbean.
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Vietnam War Involvement: The squadron provided reconnaissance and ASW support during the Vietnam War, contributing to U.S. naval operations in Southeast Asia.
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Transition to P-3 Orion: In 1966, VP-5 transitioned to the Lockheed P-3 Orion, enhancing its patrol and ASW capabilities for the Cold War era.
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Cold War Operations: Throughout the Cold War, VP-5 was involved in tracking Soviet submarines and ships, participating in numerous intelligence-gathering and ASW missions.
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Modern Era Aircraft: VP-5 now flies the P-8A Poseidon, a state-of-the-art maritime patrol aircraft, keeping the squadron at the forefront of naval aviation technology.
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Humanitarian and Counter-Drug Missions: In addition to combat roles, VP-5 has participated in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and counter-narcotics operations throughout the Caribbean, Central America, and beyond.
