Carrier Air Wing Three

Carrier Air Wing Three is a United States Navy carrier air wing based at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia. Known by the nickname "Battle Axe," it is one of the Navy's oldest and most decorated air wings, with a combat history spanning from World War II to the modern era. The air wing is currently assigned to the USS ''Dwight D. Eisenhower'' (CVN-69) as part of Carrier Strike Group 2.

History

The wing's origins trace to Carrier Air Group Three, established on 1 July 1938 aboard the USS ''Ranger'' (CV-4). It saw extensive action in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II, participating in pivotal campaigns like the Battle of the Philippine Sea and raids on the Japanese archipelago. Following the war, the redesignated air wing supported United Nations forces during the Korean War, operating from carriers such as the USS ''Leyte'' (CV-32). During the Cold War, it conducted numerous deployments to the Mediterranean Sea with the Sixth Fleet and later executed combat missions over North Vietnam and Laos from the USS ''Saratoga'' (CV-60). In the post-Vietnam War era, CVW-3 participated in critical operations including Operation Desert Storm from the USS ''Theodore Roosevelt'' (CVN-71), and later sustained combat operations over Afghanistan and Iraq during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Current composition

As of the 2020s, the wing operates a complement of modern aircraft centered on the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. The strike fighter squadrons include the "Gunslingers" of VFA-105, the "Fighting Swordsmen" of VFA-32, the "Rampagers" of VFA-83, and the "Wildcats" of VFA-131. Electronic attack is provided by the "Zappers" of VAQ-130 flying the Boeing EA-18G Growler. The "Screwtops" of VAW-123 operate the Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye for airborne early warning, while helicopter detachments from HSM-74 and HSC-7 fly the Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk and Sikorsky MH-60S Seahawk for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and logistics.

Command structure

The air wing is commanded by a captain (O-6) in the United States Navy who serves as the Commander, Air Group (CAG). This command position is typically held by a senior naval aviator with extensive fleet experience. The wing falls under the administrative oversight of Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic and is operationally assigned to a carrier strike group commander when deployed. The individual squadron commanders, also captains or commanders, report directly to the CAG for all air wing functions, ensuring integrated warfighting capabilities across the diverse aircraft types.

Deployments and operations

In recent years, CVW-3 has been integral to deployments of the USS ''Dwight D. Eisenhower''. Notable deployments include a 2020 cruise to the Fifth Fleet and Sixth Fleet areas of responsibility, which included operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The air wing regularly participates in major multinational exercises such as Exercise Baltic Operations in the Baltic Sea and Exercise Sea Breeze in the Black Sea, enhancing interoperability with allies like NATO. Its operations consistently focus on power projection, maritime security, and deterrence in key global regions.

Aircraft flown

Throughout its history, the wing has operated a vast array of naval aircraft. Early propeller-driven types included the Grumman F4F Wildcat, Grumman TBF Avenger, and Vought F4U Corsair. The jet age introduced models like the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II and the Grumman A-6 Intruder. During the late 20th century, it transitioned to the Grumman F-14 Tomcat and the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet. Its current primary platform, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, is complemented by the electronic warfare Boeing EA-18G Growler, the airborne early warning Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye, and the utility and anti-submarine Sikorsky MH-60 Seahawk helicopters.

Category:Carrier air wings of the United States Navy Category:Military units and formations established in 1938 Category:Naval Air Station Oceana