Marine Fighter Training Squadron 401 (VMFT-401), a component of the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, was activated at MCAS Yuma on March 18, 1986. The squadron's mission is to improve the Marine Corps' air-to-air combat readiness by employing current threat tactics against Marine pilots.
The "Snipers" of VMFT-401 are the United States Marine Corps' only adversary squadron. The squadron is manned by highly experienced Marine fighter pilots each averaging well more than 2,500 flight hours in tactical fighter aircraft. All "Sniper" pilots are air combat tactics instructors and most are graduates of "Top Gun" or the Marine Corps' Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course. Additionally, the squadron is manned by a United States Air Force F-15C pilot serving as an exchange officer. The "Snipers" are experts on simulating threat aircraft and tactics and provide accurate and realistic training for all branches of the United States military and our allies.
World-class maintenance for the squadron's aircraft is provided by contract with Sikorsky Aerospace Maintenance. The squadron is located in building 146, and its administrative section can be reached at 928-269-2708.
For after-hours emergencies, contact the duty officer at 928-269-2806 or 682-319-4395.