About this Unit
Patrol Squadron 50 (VP-50), known as the "Blue Dragons," was a U.S. Navy maritime patrol squadron established in June 1944. Initially flying PBM Mariners during World War II, the unit conducted anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue operations in the Pacific. Over its long service, VP-50 transitioned to newer aircraft, including the P-5 Marlin and eventually the P-3 Orion, adapting to Cold War missions such as surveillance and intelligence-gathering. The squadron was based at NAS Moffett Field, California, and participated in significant operations until its decommissioning in March 1992.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Patrol Squadron 50 (VP-50) was originally established as VP-917 on 15 November 1946 in the U.S. Naval Reserve and later redesignated several times, finally becoming VP-50 in February 1950.
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Nickname: VP-50 was known as the “Blue Dragons,” a name and emblem adopted in the 1960s that became iconic among maritime patrol squadrons.
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Aircraft Evolution: Over its service life, the squadron operated several aircraft types: PBM Mariners, P5M Marlins, P2V Neptunes, and most notably the P-3 Orion, which it flew until disestablishment.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, VP-50 played a critical role in reconnaissance and surveillance, helping to enforce the naval blockade of Cuba.
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Vietnam War Service: VP-50 was deployed to Southeast Asia, conducting maritime patrol, reconnaissance, and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions in support of U.S. operations during the Vietnam War.
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Tragic Loss in 1967: On 6 January 1967, two VP-50 P5M Marlins collided in midair during a night training mission off the coast of San Diego, resulting in the loss of all 12 crew members.
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1978 P-3 Crash: On 26 March 1978, a VP-50 P-3B Orion crashed near the Aleutian Islands during a mission, with the loss of all 15 crew members. The cause was later attributed to severe icing conditions.
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Cold War Operations: Throughout the Cold War, VP-50 conducted surveillance and tracking of Soviet submarines and ships, particularly in the Pacific theater, contributing to U.S. maritime dominance.
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Operation Desert Storm: In 1991, VP-50 participated in Operation Desert Storm, deploying to the Persian Gulf to conduct surveillance and reconnaissance missions against Iraqi naval forces.
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Disestablishment: VP-50 was disestablished on 30 June 1992 as part of post-Cold War drawdowns, ending nearly 46 years of distinguished service to the U.S. Navy.
