Flight Support  VXS-1

VXS-1, located at NAS Patuxent River, MD, operates and maintains a fleet of three uniquely configured, research modified NP-3D "Orion" aircraft.  In addition, VXS-1 has recently acquired an RC-12 to support smaller projects. The men and women of the squadron provide the Naval Research Laboratory with airborne research platforms, conducting flight operations worldwide in support of a wide spectrum of projects and experiments. These include: magnetic variation mapping, hydroacoustic research, bathymetry, electronic countermeasures, gravity mapping, and radar research. The detachment annually logs approximately 1,000 flight hours and in it's 42 years, VXS-1 has amassed over 64,000 hours of accident free flying.

Code 1600:
The Commanding Officer of VXS-1 and his assistant are responsible for setting policy and managing the daily activities of the squadron.

Code 1630:
The VXS-1 Operations office interacts directly with the Military Support Division to accomplish the scheduling, planning and establishment of long term goals for VXS-1 operations. Additionally they also track aircrew qualifications, publish the daily flight schedule and ensure aircrew proficiency and interact with Code 1650 to ensure maximum use of aircraft assets assigned.

Code 1640:
The VXS-1 Administration office interfaces directly with the NRL Military Administration Branch for the processing of military records, awards processing, training, and travel and Per Diem issues for the assigned military personnel. Additionally they work for the Commanding Officer for the promulgation of all policies, instructions and notices for VXS-1.

Code 1650:
The VXS-1 Maintenance Office is responsible for the maintenance, record keeping, reporting and management of the 4 assigned research modified aircraft. Additionally they work with the Military Support Division for the scheduling of aircraft, and long term maintenance planning. The Maintenance department acts as the sole point of contact for detached aircraft operations; ensuring required maintenance inspections, and reporting are accomplished in a timely fashion.

Projects Office:
The VXS-1 Projects office acts as a liaison between project scientists and maintenance control. It is responsible for determining project equipment requirements, arranging for flight clearances, installation and testing of project equipment, and equipment removal at the completion of the project.