What is an FRS?
An FRS is a Fleet Replacement Squadron (also referred to as a Fleet Readiness Squadron), or training squadron, that provides advanced level initial and refresher training to naval aviators (Pilots and Naval Flight Officers (NFOs)) in specific fleet aircraft to prepare them for assignment to a fleet squadron. Flight training in the FRS is tailored to the level of experience of the students, who are grouped into training categories based on that level of experience. A newly winged student is assigned as a Category 1 student, while a pilot with previous fleet experience, but who has not flown in several years (or is transitioning to a new aircraft), would be assigned as a Category 2 or higher student. There are currently three FRSs that utilize NALF Fentress for FCLP training: VAW-120 homebased at Naval Station Norfolk Chambers Field, which trains aviators in the E-2/C-2 aircraft; VFA-106 (F/A-18C), and VFA-106 (F/A-18E/F), homebased at NAS Oceana, which train aviators in the two distinct
