VQ-2

Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron VQ-2, also known as "Batemen" and later "Sandeman," was an air reconnaissance squadron of the United States Navy was established on 1 September 1955 and based at NAS Whidbey Island, flying Lockheed EP-3 aircraft. The squadron was disestablished on 22 May 2012.

Squadron History

1960s

VQ-2 was commissioned on 1 September 1955 to provide the United States with an improved defense posture. Designated Electronic Countermeasures Squadron TWO (ECMRON TWO) at the outset, it was homeported at NAS Port Lyautey.

The squadron originally utilized the P-4M-1Q Mercator and the P-2V Neptune as mission aircraft. In September 1956, a new and faster carrier-capable A-3D-1Q Skywarrior. In January 1960, the squadron was transferred to NS Rota, Spain.

In early 1960, the squadron's name was changed to Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron TWO (VQ-2). Shortly thereafter, the P4M-1Q aircraft were replaced by the WV-2Q Super Constellations. In October 1962, the WV-2Q was redesignated the EC-121M Super Constellation.