VXS-1: The Warlocks
History
Air Test and Evaluation Squadron One (VXS-1), known as the "Warlocks," is a specialized aviation squadron within the United States Navy focused on scientific research, airborne testing, and electronic warfare evaluation. Established in 1963 as a detachment of the Naval Air Development Center, the unit was formally designated VXS-1 in 2004 when it became part of the Naval Research Laboratory's (NRL) Scientific Development Squadron. Since its inception, VXS-1 has played a pivotal role in the Navy's airborne research programs, supporting national defense, technology innovation, and maritime security.
Initially operating under different designations and structures, VXS-1 evolved from the earlier Navy Airborne Research and Development squadron. The squadron's primary mission has always been to serve as an airborne research and testing platform for new technologies, including sensor integration, radar systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and environmental monitoring.
Contributions and Capabilities
VXS-1 operates a fleet of highly modified aircraft tailored to research, including the Lockheed P-3 Orion, a maritime patrol aircraft extensively used for testing new surveillance and reconnaissance systems. The squadron also operates other aircraft, such as the Beechcraft King Air C-12 and UAVs, for specialized testing.
The Warlocks have been instrumental in evaluating:
Electronic warfare systems to enhance U.S. Navy capabilities.
Surveillance and reconnaissance technologies for intelligence gathering.
Meteorological and environmental monitoring to improve naval weather forecasting.
Advanced sensor systems for anti-submarine warfare, missile defense, and coastal security.
One of VXS-1's significant contributions was its involvement in developing Magnetic Anomaly Detection (MAD) technology, which helps detect submerged submarines by measuring disturbances in Earth's magnetic field. The squadron has also participated in joint military and civilian efforts, including hurricane tracking, oceanographic studies, and satellite calibration missions.
Present and Future of VXS-1
Today, VXS-1 continues to serve as the aviation arm of the Naval Research Laboratory, conducting airborne research for future military applications. The squadron frequently collaborates with DARPA, NASA, and other military branches, ensuring the U.S. Navy maintains technological superiority in electronic warfare, reconnaissance, and intelligence gathering.
Looking ahead, VXS-1 is expected to integrate more unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into its operations, expand hypersonic missile tracking research, and support future developments in quantum radar and electronic warfare countermeasures. As warfare becomes increasingly digital and space-oriented, the squadron will continue to pioneer advancements in airborne technology.
With a legacy of cutting-edge research and real-world applications, VXS-1 remains one of the most critical squadrons in naval aviation. It ensures the fleet stays at the forefront of technological innovation.
Sources:
Research Squadron VXS-1 Celebrates 60th Anniversary at Tailhook, DVIDS, 2024.
Research Squadron VXS-1 Mobilizes Quickly to Track Hurricane Idalia, DVIDS, 2024.
Scientific Development Squadron (VXS) 1, Naval District Washington, n.d.
Scientific Development Squadron (VXS) 1, Naval Research Laboratory, n.d.