U.S. Navy Fighter-Bomber Squadrons (VBF)

During World War II, the U.S. Navy utilized a variety of designations for its various carrier-based squadrons. "VF" stood for "Fighter Squadron," which were primarily tasked with aerial combat to secure air superiority and protect the fleet. "VB" stood for "Bombing Squadron," whose role was to engage enemy ships and ground targets primarily with bombs and torpedoes.

However, there was also a designation known as "VBF," which stood for "Fighter-Bombing Squadron." These were specialized units intended to carry out both air-to-air combat and air-to-ground bombing missions, providing them with a more diverse operational capability. This was a particularly significant shift from the previously strictly divided roles of VF and VB squadrons.

However, after the war, the U.S. Navy discontinued the VBF designation. Carrier-based fighter units, even those tasked with ground attack duties, were all designated as VF or VA (Attack Squadron) based on the aircraft type they flew and their primary mission focus.

This changed with the introduction of the McDonnell-Douglas F/A-18 Hornet in the 1980s. The F/A-18 was designated as a "strike-fighter," meaning it was designed from the outset for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. This new type of aircraft reflected a shift in Navy doctrine toward a more versatile and multi-mission capable force.