In January 1976, VF-101 'The Grim Reapers' began operating and instructing aircrews and maintainers in the F-14 Tomcat. In 1986, VF-101 were flying the F-14A, with underpowered and troublesome engines that limited their time on-station and range.
The landing gear is very robust, in order to withstand the harsh takeoffs and landings necessary for carrier operation. It comprises a double nosewheel and widely spaced single main wheels. There are no hardpoints on the sweeping parts of the wings, and so all the armament is fitted on the belly between the air intake ramps and on pylons under the wing gloves.