Collection: VFA-106 Gladiators

VFA-106 was established at NAS Cecil Field, Florida, on April 27, 1984, as the Navy's East Coast F/A-18 Fleet Replacement Squadron. The Gladiators were the first squadron to receive the VFA-106 designation and began training replacement pilots for the F/A-18 Hornet in 1985. The squadron adopted the Gladiators name and insignia previously used by VA-106, carrying forward the traditions of the earlier unit while beginning its own official lineage in 1984.

The Gladiators moved to NAS Oceana, Virginia, in 1999 and later expanded their mission to include the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. As a Fleet Replacement Squadron, VFA-106 has played a critical role in preparing generations of Naval Aviators, Weapon Systems Officers, and maintenance personnel for service in operational strike fighter squadrons. Training includes air-to-air and air-to-ground missions and culminates in day and night carrier qualification.

Today, VFA-106 continues its mission of training aircrew and personnel for the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fleet. From newly winged aviators beginning their strike fighter careers to experienced aircrew transitioning aircraft, the Gladiators remain an important part of preparing the next generation of Naval Aviation for fleet operations.