About this Unit
Sea Control Squadron 22 (VS-22), known as the "Checkmates," was a U.S. Navy anti-submarine warfare squadron established in 1950. Initially flying the Grumman S-2 Tracker, VS-22 later transitioned to the S-3 Viking, operating primarily from aircraft carriers in both the Atlantic and Mediterranean theaters. The squadron participated in significant operations, including NATO exercises and combat support missions during the Gulf War and Operation Iraqi Freedom. After over five decades of service, VS-22 was decommissioned in 2009 as the S-3 Viking was retired from frontline service.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The lineage of VS-22 ("Sea Control Squadron 22") traces back to anti-submarine squadrons first established during World War II, though the modern VS-22 was officially established in April 1960.
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Nickname "Checkmates": VS-22 was known as the "Checkmates," a nod to their tactical prowess and the squadron’s checkered tail markings.
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S-3 Viking Operators: The squadron flew the S-3A and later S-3B Viking aircraft, a jet specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and later adapted for surface warfare and aerial refueling.
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Carrier Deployments: VS-22 served on a variety of aircraft carriers, most notably as part of Carrier Air Wing 3 (CVW-3) aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) and USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75).
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Combat Operations: VS-22 participated in major combat operations, including Operation Desert Storm (1991), Operation Allied Force (Kosovo, 1999), and Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003).
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Last East Coast S-3 Squadron: VS-22 was the last operational S-3 Viking squadron on the U.S. East Coast before its deactivation in January 2009.
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Aerial Refueling Role: In its later years, the squadron’s S-3 Vikings were modified to serve as in-flight refueling tankers, extending the range and endurance of carrier-based aircraft.
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Notable Rescue: VS-22 was involved in the dramatic rescue of downed aviators and provided critical support for search and rescue operations during its deployments.
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Cold War Service: The squadron played a key role in Cold War maritime patrols, tracking Soviet submarines and ensuring the security of U.S. carrier battle groups.
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Legacy and Honors: Over its nearly 50 years of service, VS-22 earned numerous awards, including multiple Battle "E" Awards for combat excellence, and left a lasting legacy in U.S. naval aviation history.
