Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series
HA5012
EA-6B Prowler 161350, VAQ-132 Scorpions, November 2006
 
General Background
Based on the A-6 Intruder the Northrop Grumman (formerly Grumman) EA-6B Prowler primary mission is to support strike aircraft and ground forces by interrupting enemy electronics and gathering tactical intelligence. The aircraft carries 4-crew and is in service with the USN and USMC. The first USN EA-6B was retired on June 10, 2011 and the last carrier deployment by an EA-6B took place on November 14, 2014. The USN will replace the EA-6B with the BoeingEA-18G Growler. The USMC will continue using the EA-6B until 2019.
 
The Aircraft 
In November 1968, VAH-2 was re-designated as Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 132 (VAQ-132). In January 1971 VAQ-132 Scorpions were the first unit to receive the new EA-6B Prowler and the first operational Prowler squadron. The unit previously was equipped with the Douglas KA-3B/EKA-3B Skywarrior beginning in 1968. VAQ-132 home base is Whidbey Island Washington. In 2009 the venerable Prowler was replaced by the Boeing EA-18G Growler. In 2004 and 2007 the Scorpions deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and one aircraft was EA-6B 161350 c/n P-94.