Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (VFA-86) is a strike fighter squadron of the United States Navy. It is equipped with the F-35C Lightning II and is stationed at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. The squadron is nicknamed "Sidewinders", leading to the call sign Winder. The unit is currently assigned to Joint Strike Fighter Wing.

VFA-86 is an F-35C Lighting II strike fighter squadron attached to Joint Strike Fighter Wing Pacific.

In June of 1987, the Sidewinders departed NIMITZ to transition to the FA-18C Hornet and were re-designated Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA-86). In 1989, deploying with the Navy’s premier strike fighter, the Sidewinders spent eight months with the Carrier Air Wing ONE (CVW-1) "TARBOX" team aboard AMERICA.

Apr 22, 2023 · NORFOLK – The “Sidewinders” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86 returned to their home base Naval Air Station Lemoore in California, April 22, 2023, following an eight-month deployment with...

If you have orders to VFA-86, welcome! Installation information, including directions for reaching the base, is available on the Naval Air Station Lemoore website. Military personnel checking...

Oct 23, 2024 · VFA-86, the third squadron of the U.S. Navy to be equipped with the F-35C Lightning II aircraft, achieved the Safe-For-Flight Operations Certification (SFFOC), according to a public statement...

In June of 1987, the Sidewinders departed NIMITZ to transition to the FA-18C Hornet and were re-designated Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA-86). In 1989, deploying with the Navy’s premier strike...

Oct 23, 2024 · VFA-86 has earned a Full Safe for Flight certification on the F-35C. The F-35C enhances the carrier strike group's ability to project power, supporting U.S. national security and integrating...

Oct 24, 2024 · The F-35C Lightning II aircraft flown by VFA-86 is the world’s most advanced strike fighter. Designed to operate from a carrier, the F-35C is fully capable in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.

Oct 17, 2022 · Lemoore Naval Air Station’s VFA-86 “Sidewinders” welcomed a new commanding officer during an airborne change of command ceremony held on Saturday, October 1, on board the USS George H.W. Bush.