This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (December 2012) |
495th Fighter Squadron | |
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Active | 15 January 1941 – 1 April 1944 1 April 1977 – 13 December 1991 1 October 2021 – present |
Country | United States |
Branch | United States Air Force |
Role | Fighter |
Part of | United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa |
Garrison/HQ | RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom |
Nickname(s) | Valkyries[1] Thundervarks (1977–1991)[2] |
Motto(s) | Mala Ipsa Nova (Latin: Bad News Itself) |
Colors | Green |
Equipment | F-35A Lightning II |
Insignia | |
Squadron code | LN (Apr 1977 – Dec 1991; Dec 2021 – present) |
495th Fighter Squadron emblem | |
495th Tactical Fighter Squadron emblem |
The 495th Fighter Squadron (495th FS), nicknamed the Valkyries, is part of the 48th Fighter Wing at RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom. Having been reactivated on 1 October 2021, it became the first overseas United States Air Force squadron to operate the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II on 15 December 2021.
The unit had previously operated the General Dynamics F-111F Aardvark at RAF Lakenheath between 1977 and 1991.