Official VAW-121 Bluetails Large Sword Patch

Product Information

This is a 9" patch without hook & loop.

Product Description

Official VAW-121 Bluetails Large Sword Patch — Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 121 Embroidered Patch

The Bluetails draw the sword—VAW-121, the Navy's carrier airborne early warning squadron that provides the eyes and command authority for the strike group from the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 121 (VAW-121), the "Bluetails," is a United States Navy carrier-based airborne early warning squadron assigned to Carrier Air Wing 17 (CVW-17) and embarked aboard USS Nimitz (CVN-68). VAW-121 operates the Northrop Grumman E-2D Advanced Hawkeye—the world's most advanced airborne early warning and battle management platform, featuring the revolutionary AN/APY-9 radar system that provides 360-degree surveillance and theater-level battle management capability.

VAW-121 was established on 1 April 1967 and has deployed aboard numerous aircraft carriers throughout its distinguished history, serving in the Carrier Airborne Early Warning Weapons School (CAEWWS) and Hawkeye Weapons Tactics Instructor (HEWTI) programs that develop the Navy's most tactically proficient E-2 crews. This large sword patch features the Bluetails' distinctive griffin insignia with a prominent sword element, symbolizing the squadron's role as both a sentinel and a warrior—the E-2D does not merely watch the battlespace but actively commands and controls the carrier strike group's combat power.

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye's capabilities are extraordinary. Its AN/APY-9 radar can detect and track hundreds of targets simultaneously at ranges exceeding 300 nautical miles, while its advanced mission computers and communication systems allow the Hawkeye crew to serve as the airborne battle manager for the entire carrier strike group. VAW-121's crews coordinate air intercepts, manage the strike package, provide missile defense cueing, and serve as the critical link between the carrier's Combat Direction Center and aircraft operating hundreds of miles from the ship.

Perfect For: VAW-121 Bluetails members and veterans, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye community members, CVW-17 personnel, USS Nimitz crew members, NAS Norfolk aviators, and carrier airborne early warning enthusiasts.

The Bluetails of VAW-121—drawing the sword from 25,000 feet, commanding the battlespace with the most powerful airborne radar ever put to sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right backing?

If you want to swap patches on/off gear, choose hook & loop (velcro). If you’re attaching permanently to uniforms or fabric, choose sew-on. If you want quick application on compatible fabric, choose iron-on / heat seal (when offered). Backing options are shown on the page and update based on the variant you select.

What size is this item?

Size is shown on the product page and updates with the variant you select (example: 3"). If you’re mounting on a hat or small panel, choose smaller sizes; for plate carriers and display boards, larger sizes fit better.

Are these Officially Licensed?

If the product is officially licensed, it will say “Officially Licensed” in the title and/or in the product details. If it doesn’t, it’s still a legitimate product—just not part of a licensed program.

Do you offer bulk or reruns for units/squadrons?

Yes. If you see a note like “bulk reruns available,” that means we can support group orders or reruns. If you don’t see it, contact us with the unit/squadron and quantity and we’ll confirm options.

Can you make a custom patch / name tag / lanyard / apparel?

Yes—custom solutions are available (patches, name tags, lanyards, apparel). Use the custom request page and include artwork, size, backing preference, and quantity.