"The science we enable is ambitious, often foundational, and it unfolds over years," said VXS-1 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Tony Levine. "But our purpose is immediate and unwavering: to defend the nation. Every line of code, every prototype, every test run - we partner with the scientists and do it with a mission in mind."
Based at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, the "Warlocks" provide the first proving ground for NRL's airborne systems, ensuring innovations are ready for use in the fleet.
"VXS-1 is NRL's own aircraft testing squadron," said Executive Officer Cmdr. Andrew Vawter. "We work with NRL to test cutting-edge equipment, accelerating its readiness for use in the field. Our primary mission is to deliver these new capabilities to the Naval Research Enterprise and in turn, into the hands of the warfighter."
The squadron operates multiple aircraft types, each tailored to specific research roles. Modified P-3 Orions carry large payloads for complex system trials, including advanced sensors and communications. Recent missions deployed buoys ahead of hurricanes to capture storm surge data, improving forecasting to protect lives and infrastructure.
Twin Otter aircraft support low-altitude trials of mapping and environmental monitoring technologies vital for coastal operations. The C-12 platform facilitates high-altitude evaluations of missile defense and communication systems, ensuring compatibility with current naval assets.
"Our job is to support the scientists and engineers to get their equipment into the air, to further their research and ultimately deliver advanced capabilities to the warfighter," said Steve Rorke, project liaison officer at VXS-1.
Through its specialized fleet and expertise, VXS-1 speeds the transition from experimental concept to field-ready capability, strengthening naval readiness and technological superiority.
"Waking up in the morning, I'm super excited to go fly and work with all these guys and gals," said Operations Officer Brandon Bui. "At VXS-1, every mission is driven by one goal: delivering tomorrow's technology to today's Fleet - faster, smarter, and mission-ready. Everyone's committed to providing good science and technology for the Fleet out there."
VXS-1 remains a key intersection between innovation and operational application, ensuring the Navy's warfighters receive the most advanced tools to safeguard the nation.
Related Links
Scientific Development Squadron (VXS) 1 at NRL
Naval Warfare in the 21st Century
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