Authentic US Navy RVAH-1 Smokin’ Tigers Squadron Embroidered Patch

Description

Officially Licensed US Navy RVAH-1 Smokin’ Tigers Squadron Patch — Reconnaissance Attack Squadron 1 RA-5C Vigilante Embroidered Patch

The Smokin’ Tigers — the first RVAH squadron, flying the fastest recon jet ever to launch from a carrier.

Reconnaissance Attack Squadron 1 (RVAH-1), the “Smokin’ Tigers,” was the first heavy reconnaissance attack squadron in the U.S. Navy, operating the North American RA-5C Vigilante — a Mach 2-capable carrier-based reconnaissance aircraft that remains the fastest and most sophisticated recon platform ever to operate from a flight deck. RVAH-1 conducted photo and electronic reconnaissance missions over the most heavily defended airspace in the world, including targets in North Vietnam during the Rolling Thunder and Linebacker campaigns.

The RA-5C Vigilante was originally designed as a supersonic nuclear bomber but was repurposed into the Navy’s premier tactical reconnaissance platform, carrying an advanced integrated operational intelligence system that produced imagery and electronic intelligence in real time. RVAH-1’s Smokin’ Tigers flew at low altitude and high speed directly over enemy targets — Hanoi, Haiphong, and the rail lines to China — to bring back the photography that strike planners needed. The mission was extraordinarily dangerous, and the Vigilante community suffered heavy losses. RVAH-1 was disestablished following the retirement of the RA-5C.

Perfect For:
RVAH-1 Smokin’ Tigers veterans, RA-5C Vigilante aircrew, carrier-based reconnaissance community members, Vietnam War naval aviation veterans, and US Navy reconnaissance squadron patch collectors.

Smokin’ Tigers. First in recon. Fastest on the deck.

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