On July 14, RADM Nevin Carr, Chief of Naval Research, visited Scientific Development Squadron One (VXS-1) to tour the facilities and meet with squadron personnel. During his visit RADM Carr was able to meet face to face with his Sailors and congratulate them on recent command accomplishments as well as hear what issues where on their minds. At the time of his visit the Commanding Officer, CDR Jay Steingold, was on an NP-3D detachment in support of Office of Naval Research (ONR) research in Dakar, Senegal. RADM Carr sited some of the major achievements and successes that this detachment had accomplished with the Senegalese military and how important that effort was not just for research but also USAFRICOM's strategic theater engagement plan.
VXS-1 provides airborne research platforms for the Naval Research Laboratory, the United States Navy, U.S. Government, and its contract agencies. VXS-1 maintains a fleet of three uniquely-configured, research-modified Lockheed NP-3D Orion aircraft, two RC-12s, and 4 unmanned aerial systems.
Located onboard the Naval Air Station, Patuxent River, Md., VXS-1 is responsible for the training, qualifications, and proficiency of all assigned personnel, as well as the maintenance of the research aircraft, and detachment coordination.
Committed to safety, NRL has logged over 70,000 flight hours and completed over 48 years of accident free flying. This commitment to safety has been recognized by VXS-1 being awarded the Chief of Naval Operations Aviation Safety Award.