VA-15 (U.S. Navy)

VA-15 was a designation for two distinct attack squadrons of the United States Navy. The first VA-15 was established in 1943 and disestablished in 1945. The second VA-15 was established in 1951 and disestablished in 1969. Both squadrons were designated as "Attack Squadron 15" (VA-15), but they represent separate entities in the Navy's historical record.

First VA-15 (1943-1945):

The first VA-15 was formed during World War II. Details regarding its specific aircraft type, deployments, and major engagements are limited in readily available unclassified historical records, but it is known to have operated in the Pacific Theater. Further research into Navy archives would likely yield more comprehensive information. The squadron’s disestablishment followed the end of World War II as part of the Navy’s post-war drawdown.

Second VA-15 (1951-1969):

The second VA-15 was established during the Cold War era. It operated primarily from aircraft carriers in the Atlantic Fleet. The squadron flew various attack aircraft throughout its existence, including but not limited to the A-1 Skyraider and the A-4 Skyhawk.

The second VA-15 participated in numerous deployments to the Mediterranean Sea and the Caribbean Sea as part of the U.S. Navy's forward presence and power projection strategy. Squadron operations included training exercises, fleet maneuvers, and potentially, though unconfirmed in open sources, contingency responses.

The second VA-15 was disestablished in 1969, likely due to budget cuts or restructuring within the Navy. The functions and roles of the squadron may have been absorbed by other existing or newly formed squadrons.