VAQ-136

• Establishment: VAQ-136, known as the "Gauntlets," was established on April 6, 1973, at Naval Air Station (NAS) Alameda, California, as an Electronic Attack Squadron. • Nickname Origin: The squadron's nickname, "Gauntlets," reflects their role in electronic warfare—throwing down the gauntlet in the face of enemy defenses. • Aircraft Evolution: VAQ-136 initially flew the EA-6B Prowler and later transitioned to the advanced EA-18G Growler, which significantly increased their electronic attack capabilities. • Carrier Deployments: The squadron has been deployed on a variety of U.S. Navy aircraft carriers, including the USS Kitty Hawk, USS Nimitz, and USS Carl Vinson, supporting operations worldwide. • Operation Desert Storm: VAQ-136 played a key role in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing electronic warfare support to coalition air forces and helping to suppress enemy air defenses. • Forward Deployed Naval Forces (FDNF): In 1992, the Gauntlets became part of the Forward Deployed Naval Forces in Japan, enhancing the U.S. Navy's presence in the Pacific and supporting regional security. • Operation Enduring Freedom & Iraqi Freedom: VAQ-136 participated in both Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom, supporting air operations with jamming and electronic surveillance. • International Exercises: The squadron has participated in numerous multinational exercises such as RIMPAC and ANNUALEX, fostering interoperability with allied and partner navies. • Safety and Excellence Awards: VAQ-136 has received multiple Battle "E" awards, the Safety "S," and the prestigious RADM Clifton Award, recognizing excellence in electronic attack and safe operations. • Squadron Emblem: The squadron's emblem, featuring a mailed fist clenching lightning bolts, symbolizes their mission to dominate the electromagnetic spectrum and protect the fleet.