The query details a specific U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft, Bureau Number (BuNo) 166894, assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron 132 (VAQ-132), which historically used the tail code NL 540. Aircraft DetailsAircraft Type: Boeing EA-18G Growler, a variant of the F/A-18F Super Hornet designed for airborne electronic attack (AEA) and suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD).Bureau Number (Serial): 166894. This aircraft was the eighth Growler built and the sixth production model.Squadron: Electronic Attack Squadron 132 (VAQ-132), known as the "Scorpions", based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington.Modex/Military Code: The code 540 was the aircraft's Modex number (tail number) while assigned to VAQ-132, within the full tail code NL-540. The "NL" tail code indicates the carrier air wing assigned to the Pacific Fleet. Operational HistoryAircraft 166894 has a notable history, including being the squadron's "CAG bird" (Commander Air Group's aircraft, often featuring special markings) for a time. It was involved in significant operations: First Operational Squadron: VAQ-132 was the first operational squadron to transition to the EA-18G Growler platform in 2009.Combat Debut: This specific aircraft (NL-540) was among the five EA-18Gs from VAQ-132 that were the first Growlers used in combat during Operation Odyssey Dawn in 2011. They were redeployed from Iraq to Aviano Air Base in Italy to enforce the UN no-fly zone over Libya.Current Status: After service with VAQ-132, the aircraft was transferred back to VAQ-129 (the Fleet Replacement Squadron) and was operational as of early 2023, participating in the Super Bowl LVII flypast. The Role of the EA-18GThe Growler is the Navy's primary electronic warfare aircraft, capable of disrupting and jamming a broad range of enemy electronic systems, including communications and radar, and typically carries electronic warfare pods and missiles like the AGM-88 HARM.