Which designation is used for aircraft that are employed for both fighter and attack missions?

The designation used for aircraft that are employed for both fighter and attack missions is VFA. This designation stands for "Fixed Wing Fighter/Attack Squadrons." Aircraft in this category are specifically designed to perform offensive combat missions, including air-to-air combat and ground attack operations. This dual capability allows these aircraft to effectively engage enemy combatants in the air while also delivering precision strikes on ground targets, making them versatile assets in modern warfare.

In contrast, the other designations refer to different roles: VP is for patrol squadrons focusing on anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance, VQ stands for reconnaissance squadrons that specialize in electronic warfare and intelligence-gathering missions, and VT designates training squadrons that focus on pilot training rather than combat missions. Understanding these designations is key to comprehending the varied roles that different aircraft play within naval aviation.