VW-3

• VW-3 Stood for "Weather Squadron Three": VW-3 was a U.S. Navy squadron formally known as Airborne Early Warning Squadron THREE, but was also called "Hurricane Hunters" due to their specialized missions. • Established in 1953: VW-3 was established on 1 June 1953 at Naval Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii, as part of the Navy’s effort to provide airborne early warning and weather reconnaissance. • Hurricane and Typhoon Hunters: The squadron’s primary mission was to fly into hurricanes and typhoons to collect meteorological data, helping improve storm prediction and warning systems. • Used the Lockheed WV-2 "Warning Star": VW-3 operated the Lockheed WV-2 (EC-121) "Warning Star" aircraft, a military version of the Constellation airliner adapted for radar and weather missions. • Pacific Ocean Coverage: VW-3’s area of operations included vast stretches of the Pacific, providing early warning radar coverage as part of the Navy's Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line extension. • Cold War Role: During the Cold War, VW-3 was integral to U.S. defenses, providing surveillance and early warning against potential Soviet bomber attacks approaching from the Pacific. • Support for Nuclear Testing: The squadron participated in monitoring atmospheric nuclear tests in the Pacific, collecting vital data on radioactive fallout and weather patterns. • Unique Call Sign "Big Eye": VW-3 missions were often referred to as "Big Eye" flights, referencing their surveillance and reconnaissance role. • Deactivation in 1965: The squadron was disestablished on 1 April 1965 as advances in technology and changes in strategic requirements reduced the need for manned airborne early warning in its area. • Legacy: VW-3’s pioneering work in airborne early warning and weather reconnaissance contributed to the development of modern weather prediction and the evolution of the Navy’s airborne warning and control capabilities.