After completing a compressed work-up cycle following a historic transition from expeditionary to carrier-based operations, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 134 has joined Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70).

The Garudas spent their last weekend in Whidbey Island with their families for Thanksgiving then immediately began the transit to Naval Air Station North Island. This marks the beginning of the Garudas first carrier-based deployment since 1994, and the sixth deployment in the last six years.

December began with carrier qualifications for the entire air wing and then transitioned to a training phase as both the Carl Vinson and the CVW 17 began Composite Unit Training Exercise or COMPTUEX. The focus of this phase of training was to achieve Blue Water Certification and effectively carry out defensive and offensive combat operations. The days leading up to the certification were long and arduous, testing both the physical and mental stamina of the aircrew and maintainers.

“This was the most fast-paced and physically challenging routine I’ve ever experienced. I’ve learned more in a shorter span of time than I ever have before,” said Aviation Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Josh Lee. “I’m definitely looking forward to the routine of deployment as well as the port calls”

The Garudas battled harsh weather off the coast of Southern California as well as the strain of working long days to keep jets up and flying. Working on a compressed timeline and with limited supply lines, the Garuda maintenance team managed to maintain a high sortie completion rate. Their efforts allowed the aircrew to remain proficient and demonstrate tactical excellence.

Without the hard work and dedication of Garuda maintenance, VAQ-134 would not have been able to meet the strenuous demands of the evaluators during the course of the COMPTUEX. 

Having attained Blue Water Certification, VAQ-134 and the rest of the strike group are pressing westward and beginning their deployment. Although the surroundings are different from previous deployments in recent history, the Garudas remain vigilant and prepared to carry on their tradition of tactical excellence.