 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (December 2012) |
495th Fighter Squadron
 | |
|---|---|
 The squadron's markings on the tail of an F-35A parked at RAF Lakenheath in 2022 | |
| 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.
- ^ "U.S. Air Force names first overseas-based F-35A Squadron". Royal Air Force Lakenheath. 16 February 2021. Retrieved 16 February 2021.
- ^ Svan, Jennifer H. (16 September 2020). "'Thundervarks' on the way out as Air Force seeks new name for F-35 squadron at Lakenheath". Stripes. Retrieved 27 March 2022.