 In November 1975, it deployed aboard for the annual active duty training and as part of CVWR-30’s tactical air mobilization test, and for the operational readiness exercise/inspection to ensure the squadron was seaworthy and combat ready.On 19 October 1985, VFA-303 was the first reserve squadron to transition to the F/A-18 Hornet.On 25 September 20 Nov 1990, a detachment of the squadron’s F/A-18 Hornets and personnel, along with VFA-305, joined CVW-11 aboard for her transit from Norfolk to Alameda, via Cape Horn.