About this Unit
Strike Fighter Squadron 125 (VFA-125), known as the "Rough Raiders," was established on November 13, 1980, at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. Originally serving as the Navy's first F/A-18 Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS), VFA-125 was responsible for training pilots and maintenance personnel on the F/A-18 Hornet. The squadron was deactivated in 2010 but was reactivated in 2017 to serve as the Navy’s first F-35C Lightning II Fleet Replacement Squadron, continuing its vital training mission. Throughout its history, VFA-125 has played a crucial role in preparing generations of naval aviators for front-line carrier-based operations.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Strike Fighter Squadron 125 (VFA-125), known as the "Rough Raiders," was originally established on November 13, 1980, at NAS Lemoore, California.
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First F/A-18 Training Squadron: VFA-125 was the U.S. Navy's first squadron dedicated to training pilots and maintenance personnel on the F/A-18 Hornet platform.
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Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS): As the West Coast Fleet Replacement Squadron, VFA-125 trained both new and transitioning pilots for operational fleet assignments.
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Primary Mission: The unit's main mission was to provide comprehensive training for Navy and Marine Corps aviators in the F/A-18 Hornet, including tactics, weapons systems, and carrier operations.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: VFA-125 was deactivated on October 1, 2010, as part of the transition to the F-35C Lightning II, but was reactivated on January 12, 2017, specifically to serve as the first F-35C Fleet Replacement Squadron.
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Transition to F-35C: Upon reactivation, VFA-125 became the Navy’s primary training squadron for the cutting-edge F-35C stealth fighter, marking a new era in naval aviation.
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Training International Pilots: VFA-125 has trained not only U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviators but also pilots from allied nations, playing a vital role in coalition interoperability.
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Nickname and Insignia: The "Rough Raiders" nickname and squadron patch—a winged horse (Pegasus) with a lightning bolt—symbolize the unit’s speed, power, and cutting-edge technology.
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Accident-Free Milestones: Over its operational years, VFA-125 has celebrated lengthy periods of accident-free flying, a testament to its rigorous training standards and safety culture.
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Historical Legacy: VFA-125’s legacy extends beyond its own history; the "125" designation has been used for various squadrons since World War II, and the Rough Raiders have carried that heritage into the modern era with advanced aircraft and training missions.
