About this Unit
VS-29, known as the “Dragonfires,” was a United States Navy anti-submarine squadron established in 1960. Flying the S-2 Tracker and later the S-3 Viking, VS-29 served with distinction aboard various aircraft carriers, providing crucial anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and maritime patrol capabilities. The squadron participated in numerous operations, including during the Vietnam War and the Gulf War, supporting carrier battle groups and contributing to fleet defense. VS-29 was deactivated in 2004 as part of the broader retirement of the S-3 Viking from active service.
Historical Facts
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Established in 1960: Sea Control Squadron 29 (VS-29), also known as the “Dragonfires,” was established on April 1, 1960, at NAS North Island, California.
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Anti-Submarine Warfare Focus: The squadron specialized in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), using aircraft to detect and track enemy submarines during the Cold War.
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S2 Tracker to S-3 Viking: VS-29 initially flew the Grumman S2F Tracker before transitioning to the Lockheed S-3A Viking in 1975—a major leap in ASW technology.
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Vietnam War Service: The squadron deployed aboard aircraft carriers such as the USS Kearsarge and USS Ticonderoga, supporting operations off the coast of Vietnam in the 1960s and early 1970s.
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Desert Storm Operations: VS-29 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing sea control and surveillance from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72).
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Carrier Deployments: The squadron served on multiple aircraft carriers, including USS Enterprise, USS Ranger, USS Carl Vinson, and USS Nimitz, supporting fleet operations worldwide.
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Dragonfire Insignia: VS-29’s distinctive insignia featured a dragon breathing fire, symbolizing the unit’s power and vigilance.
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Final Operations: In the 1990s and early 2000s, VS-29 took part in numerous exercises and overseas deployments, supporting naval operations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
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Sundown and Disestablishment: The squadron was officially disestablished on April 23, 2004, as part of the Navy’s decommissioning of the S-3 Viking fleet.
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Legacy: Many former VS-29 personnel went on to serve in other aviation and naval roles, and the squadron’s history is celebrated at reunions and in naval aviation museums.
