USN Carrier air units 1928-on

This pdf document covers the history of aircraft carrier-assigned air units (squadrons, groups and wings) from 1928 onwards for those interested in the history of Naval Aviation on aircraft carriers. It's a bit rough; any comments or criticisms welcome.

Sources:

-- OPNAV Notice 5400 (Naval Aeronautical Organization) 1928-1998
-- OPNAV Notice C3110 (Allowance and Location of Naval Aircraft) 1942-1988
-- Ships and Aircraft of the U.S. Fleet, 19th Edition (2013)

 

[Llarry]

Apologies for the not-quite-ready-for-prime-time nature of the original attachment. I found a number of things that I left out, including Marine squadrons on carriers -- and even Marine Carrier Air Groups in 1945-46 -- the CV concept of the mid-1970s, and (a chargeable offense for a cryptologic officer!) VQ dets. I've incorporated these improvements and others in the attached document, as well as improving readability. As before, comments welcome.

 

[Llarry]

Latest updated version of carrier-based aircraft units 1928 to 2024 and beyond attached.

The latest available Marine Aviation Plan indicates that eight total VMFAs will be equipped with the F-35C: six USMC and two USMCR. Could that mean that the Marine Corps intends to operate a couple of squadrons of F-35Cs land-based instead of integrated with CVWs? Or will Marine integration with CVWs be increased?

 

[Griz882]

Latest updated version of carrier-based aircraft units 1928 to 2024 and beyond attached.

The latest available Marine Aviation Plan indicates that eight total VMFAs will be equipped with the F-35C: six USMC and two USMCR. Could that mean that the Marine Corps intends to operate a couple of squadrons of F-35Cs land-based instead of integrated with CVWs? Or will Marine integration with CVWs be increased?

Remember, before 1943 the “S” in VS meant “Scouting” as in observation. Essentially Dauntless dive bombers that carried a lighter load to extend range a bit.