VFA 143 Strike Fighter Squadron 143 (U.S. Navy) Black Coffee Mug

VFA 143 Strike Fighter Squadron 143 (U.S. Navy) The VFA 143, officially known as the Strike Fighter Squadron 143, is an active-duty strike fighter squadron within the United States Navy. This naval aviation squadron falls under Carrier Air Wing 9 (CVW-9), which serves aboard aircraft carriers of Nimitz class. The VFA 143 operates primarily the F/A-18E Super Hornet, a dual-role fighter designed for air superiority and attack missions. Established in 1962, the squadron's first aircraft was the A-7 Corsair II. Over the years, it has transitioned through various models like the F-8 Crusader, A-6 Intruder, and F/A-18 Hornet before adopting the Super Hornet in 2007. The VFA 143 is nicknamed "Pukin' Dogs" and has been deployed to numerous operational areas, including the Mediterranean Sea, Persian Gulf, and Western Pacific Ocean. Their primary mission consists of striking enemy targets, air defense, close air support for ground forces, and conducting reconnaissance missions.