A squadron is an organized group of military aircraft or ships that work together as a unit. When fighter jets fly in formation during a mission, they're operating as a squadron. Naval vessels might sail together as a squadron to patrol an area or conduct operations.

Over centuries, as warfare changed, the term shifted to describe groups of ships, and later aircraft. A squadron often contains between 12 and 24 aircraft, though the exact number varies by country and aircraft type.

Each squadron has its own identity, usually with a number, nickname, and insignia. The famous “Flying Tigers” were part of the 1st American Volunteer Group that flew in China during World War II. Modern air force squadrons might be called things like “The Thunderbolts” or “Nighthawks,” with pilots wearing patches showing their squadron's symbol.

You might also hear the word used more casually to describe any organized group moving together with a common purpose, like a squadron of geese flying south for winter or a squadron of grocery carts being pushed back to the store entrance.