Fighter Squadron 43 (VF-43), known as the "Challengers," was a United States Navy adversary squadron established in 1945. Over its history, the squadron underwent several redesignations and operated a variety of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II, A-4 Skyhawk, and F-16N Fighting Falcon. VF-43’s primary mission became providing air combat training for fleet units, simulating enemy tactics as part of the Navy’s adversary program. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia until its disestablishment in July 1994.
