About this Unit
VS-21, known as the "Fighting Redtails," was a U.S. Navy anti-submarine squadron established in 1945. The squadron operated a variety of carrier-based aircraft, including the S-2 Tracker and later the S-3 Viking, focusing on anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions. Throughout its history, VS-21 participated in major operations, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, and various Cold War deployments, providing critical ASW and maritime patrol support from aircraft carriers. After over five decades of distinguished service, VS-21 was disestablished in 2005 as part of the Navy's restructuring of its carrier air wings.
Historical Facts
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Long Service History: VS-21, or Sea Control Squadron 21, was originally established as VS-931 on 28 August 1948 and redesignated VS-21 on 4 February 1953, serving for over 50 years until its disestablishment on 31 March 2005.
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Korean War Beginnings: The squadron was mobilized during the Korean War and initially operated the Grumman TBM-3E Avenger, performing anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions.
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Nickname "Fighting Redtails": VS-21 was commonly known as the "Fighting Redtails" due to the distinctive red tails on their aircraft.
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Transition to S-3 Viking: In 1974, VS-21 became the first Pacific Fleet squadron to transition to the Lockheed S-3A Viking, a carrier-based ASW aircraft, marking a significant technological leap.
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Vietnam War Operations: Throughout the Vietnam War, VS-21 conducted anti-submarine operations from aircraft carriers, providing critical protection against potential Soviet submarine threats.
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Operation Desert Storm: VS-21 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying from USS Nimitz (CVN-68), conducting surveillance, surface search, and tanker missions.
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Global Deployments: The squadron completed multiple deployments across the Pacific and Indian Oceans, operating from numerous aircraft carriers, including USS Midway, USS Independence, and USS Kitty Hawk.
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Role Expansion: In the 1990s, the S-3 Vikings' mission expanded beyond ASW to include surface surveillance, electronic warfare, and aerial refueling.
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Final Deployment: VS-21's last operational deployment was aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) in 2004, supporting operations in the Western Pacific and the Global War on Terror.
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Legacy and Disestablishment: VS-21 was the last active S-3 Viking squadron in the U.S. Navy and was disestablished at Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, in 2005, ending an era of anti-submarine carrier aviation.
