Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (HX) 21 Fact Sheet

Check out fast facts on HX-21!

The mission of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two One (HX-21) is to execute developmental flight test and evaluation of rotary-wing and tilt-rotor aircraft, and their associated airborne systems in support of all United States Navy and Marine Corps training, combat, and combat support missions. The goal of HX-21 is to provide the highest quality evaluation and reporting in support of the aircraft program managers and the fleet warfighters. Exemplifying the Navy and Marine Corps' ethos, the pride and professionalism inherent in everything HX-21 does has established it as the "World's Greatest Test Squadron."

HX-21 History

Welcome to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two One (HX-21), a component command of Naval Test Wing Atlantic. The test and evaluation of rotary-wing aircraft by the United States Navy traces its beginning to the establishment of the rotary wing section of the flight test division at Naval Air Test Center, Patuxent River, Maryland, on April 25, 1949.  In 1975, the rotary-wing test section was renamed the Rotary Wing Test Directorate, and was formally established as an air test and evaluation squadron in 2002.  HX-21 continues to build upon its proud heritage conducting rotary-wing and tilt-rotor developmental flight test in support of U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard acquisition and fleet support programs.

In 2018, the squadron operated 33 aircraft of nine different Type/Model/Series. Seven of the programs the squadron supported were categorized as Major Defense Acquisition Category ONE programs (ACAT I). These programs were: V-22, UH-1Y, AH-1Z, CH-53K, MH-60R, and MH-60S.

In 2018, HX-21 executed 246 Chief of Naval Operations-directed test and evaluation (T&E) projects on nine different Type/Model/Series aircraft, totaling 1,215 sorties and 1,926.8 flight hours, and surpassing 123,586.9 total flight hours of Class "A" mishap-free flight operations.  HX-21 also executed 318 flight tests totaling 692.3 test hours and performed 8,500.0 hours of ground test.  Squadron test pilots logged 7,941 landings in squadron aircraft including 229 shipboard landings in support of multiple high risk suitability/compatibility tests.  In addition to 87 active duty Navy and

Marine Corps personnel, HX-21 also employs  38 government civilians and 353 contractors over seven different contracts.  In support of HX-21 T&E missions, DynCorp contract maintenance personnel performed 25,189 maintenance actions totaling 81,376.9 maintenance man-hours which included 4,272 maintenance actions and 13,544.5 maintenance man-hours in support of NAS Patuxent River Search and Rescue aircraft.

The success of HX-21 depends on mission-critical relationships with our key acquisition partners, including NAS Patuxent River, the Marine Aviation Detachment, NAVAIR competencies, our industry partners and the following program offices: Aircrew Systems (PMA-202), Aviation Training Systems (PMA-205), Air Combat Electronics (PMA-209), Naval Air Traffic Management Systems (PMA-213), Direct and Time Sensitive Strike (PMA-242), Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment (PMA-251), H-53 and Executive Transport Helicopters (PMA-261), Air Anti-Submarine Warfare Systems (PMA-264), Advanced Tactical Aircraft Protection Systems (PMA-272), Presidential Helicopters Program (PMA-274), V-22 Osprey Program (PMA-275), H-1 Helicopter Program (PMA-276), Strike Planning and Execution (PMA-281), Multi-Mission Helicopters H-60 (PMA-299), and Mine Warfare (PMS-495).

Lt. Col. Aaron Okun 

HX-21 Commanding Officer

Lieutenant Colonel Aaron E. Okun, a native of Canton, MA, received a Bachelor of Science with distinction in Aerospace Engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2007 and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant.  After completing The Basic School and flight training, 1st LT Okun reported to the “Raging Bulls” of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 261 and deployed on the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and to OEF 14.1, holding the billets of embark officer and airframes officer.

Following OEF 14.1, Capt Okun began operational test flight duties for the “Argonauts” of VMX-22 serving as the Aviation Safety Officer.  In June 2016, Capt Okun became a plank holder of the re-designated Marine Operational Test Squadron One (VMX-1).  While at VMX-1, Capt Okun conducted multiple V-22 operational tests and was the lead project officer for the Universal Urgent Needs Statement (UUNS) fielding of survivability equipment.

In 2017, Capt Okun completed training at the United States Naval Test Pilot School (USNTPS). Upon graduation, Maj Okun was assigned to the “Blackjacks” of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two One (HX-21) where he conducted numerous flight tests including aerial refueling envelope expansion, structural and fatigue testing, and five Dynamic Interface (DI) test periods.  Additionally, he was the lead project officer for Reduced Visibility Landing Symbology upgrades and recirculation investigations. While serving as the Government Flight Test Director (GFTD) throughout 2020, he had oversight of initial CMV-22 testing through Operational Test Readiness Review.

In July 2021, Maj Okun was assigned to the V-22 Joint Program Office (JPO) as the Survivability Integrated Product Team Lead (IPTL), as well as the military lead for strategic planning.  In September 2022, he assumed the role of Hard Clutch Engagement (HCE) Team Lead and led a diverse government and industry team in resolving the HCE risk.  Following his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel and selection for command, he has been the Blackjack’s Chief Test Pilot since June 2023.

He is a DAWIA practitioner in both Test and Evaluation and Program Management and holds Masters degrees in System Engineering from Naval Postgraduate School and in Leadership Studies from Marshall University.  LtCol Okun’s personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal and an Individual Strike/Flight Air Medal.  Additionally, he was the Society of Experimental Test Pilots 2022 Tenhoff Award recipient and has logged flight time in over 30 different aircraft.

Cmdr. Michael Lindsey

HX-21 Chief Test Pilot

Cmdr. Michael Lindsey, a native of Palmdale, CA, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the United States Naval Academy in 2008.  Following graduation, he reported to NAS Pensacola to begin flight school.  After completing fixed wing training at NAS Corpus Christi and rotary wing training at NAS Whiting Field, Lindsey received his wings of gold in June 2010.

Upon completion of Fleet Replacement Pilot training in the MH-60S, Lindsey reported to the “Eightballers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron EIGHT (HSC-8) where he served as the squadron’s Legal Officer, Training and Readiness Officer, and NATOPS Officer.  He deployed twice with the Eightballers as a MH-60S Aircraft Commander and Level III Anti-Surface Warfare, Personnel Recovery, and Special Operations Forces qualified pilot on board USS JOHN C STENNIS (CVN-78) and USS MOBILE BAY (CG-53) in support of Operation New Dawn and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Lindsey was then board selected to attend the United States Naval Test Pilot School and successfully graduated as a member of Class 147 in June 2015.  He then reported to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ONE (HX-21) where he served as MH-60R/S Developmental Test Pilot and Project Officer.  He led several test projects, to include platform hardware, software and envelope expansion, designed to increase the capability of the MH-60R/S for fleet operators. After hours, Lindsey completed a rigorous distance-learning curriculum and graduated with a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from Johns Hopkins University. Nearing the end of his tour at HX-21, Lindsey selected for lateral transfer to Aerospace Engineering Duty Officer.

Lindsey reported to NAVAIR’s Program Office for Multi-Mission Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems (PMA-266) in April 2018 and served as the Fire Scout Ship Integration Level 1 IPT Lead until April 2021. At PMA-266, he was responsible for the cost, schedule, and performance of the MQ-8 Fire Scout Mission Control Station. Throughout his time at 266, he has seen the MQ-8C through Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E), Initial Operational Capability (IOC) declaration, fleet fielding of the MQ-8C and Mobile Mission Control Station (MMCS), and sustainment of the MQ-8B.

Following his tour at PMA-266, CDR Lindsey reported to the Ghost Wolves of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO FOUR (UX-24) as the MQ-8 Fire Scout Government Flight Test Director. He was responsible for the planning, monitoring, scheduling, execution, and reporting of all MQ-8B/C Fire Scout Developmental Test and Evaluation. Significant achievement during his tenure included executing the first ever strategic airlift and overseas detachment of MQ-8C for International Maritime Exercise 2023, as well as publishing expanded wind envelopes for flight operations aboard Littoral Combat Ship.

Next, Lindsey reported to the Naval Undergraduate Flight Training Systems Program Office (PMA-273) in January 2024 as the T-45 Deputy Program Manager. At PMA-273, he was directly responsible for managing all sustainment efforts for the Navy and Marine Corps carrier based fixed wing training platform. Shortly after beginning his tour, Lindsey was selected for command of HX-21. He began his tour at HX-21 as the Chief Test Pilot in February 2025.

Cmdr. Lindsey has over 1,600 flight hours in 22 different Type/Model/Series aircraft. 

Cmdr. James Malvasio

HX-21 Executive Officer

Commander (CDR) James Malvasio was born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in New Jersey.  Graduating from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 2002, he received a commission through the NROTC program and was designated a Naval Aviator in 2004.

Upon completion of H-60F/H training, he served with the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron FIVE (HS-5) from April 2005 to April 2008 in Jacksonville, Florida.  At HS-5, Commander Malvasio completed one deployment on board USS EISENHOWER (CVN 69) to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

From June 2008 to January 2011, Commander Malvasio served as an Operational Test Pilot at Air Test and Evaluation ONE (VX-1) in Patuxent River, Maryland.  There he simultaneously led all MH-60S “Armed-Helo” testing efforts as the Operational Test Director and earned an Executive Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the Naval Postgraduate School.

From February 2011 to May 2013, Commander Malvasio was by-name selected to transition the “Dusty Dogs” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron SEVEN (HSC-7) from the H-60F/H to the MH-60S in Norfolk, VA.  There he served in a Department Head role as the Training Officer and Safety Officer in support of the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) Strike Group.

From June 2013 to October 2015, Commander Malvasio returned to the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron FIVE (HSC-5) in Norfolk, VA, successfully transitioning them to the MH-60S.  There he served as the Safety Officer, Training Officer, Operations Officer, and Maintenance Officer and became one of the U.S. Navy’s first H-60 Fixed-Forward Firing Weapons Instructors.  He also led four detachments as Officer-in-Charge supporting the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) Strike Group.

From November 2015 to November 2016, Commander Malvasio earned a Master’s Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.  In December 2016, he reported to US Special Operations Command as the Theater Maritime Requirements Manager for all Naval Special Warfare Command equities and Precision Strike Weapon Systems throughout the SOCOM enterprise.  Before detaching in February 2020, he deployed to Afghanistan with SOJTF-A/NSOCC-A from May 2019 to October 2019 as the Global Force Manager for all NATO SOF requirements and Lead Planner for the initial drawdown efforts within the Afghanistan AOR.

In March 2020, Commander Malvasio reported to Expeditionary Strike Group TWO (ESG-2) as the Deputy Operations Officer and Lead Scheduler for all 14 East Coast Amphibious Class ships in support of US Fleet Forces (USFF) and Commander, SECOND Fleet.  He also coordinated all Defense Support of Civil Authorities efforts and deployed to Louisiana with MARFORNORTH as the USFF Liaison Officer in support of Hurricane Ida relief.

In January 2022, Commander Malvasio reported to HX-21 as Executive Officer.  He has accumulated over 2500 flight hours in naval aircraft, and is the recipient of the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (three awards) and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

Senior Chief Conrad Lampasona

Command Senior Chief

Command Senior Chief Lampasona, is a native of Long Island, New York.  He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in February 2001 and upon completion of Recruit Training in Great Lakes, Illinois, he attended Yeoman “A” School in Meridian, Mississippi.

His sea duty assignments include the USS Vella Gulf (CG-72) where he completed two deployments to the Persian Gulf and a Baltic Operations Exercise, Riverine Squadron ONE (RIVRON ONE) where he completed three deployments to Iraq, SEAL Team TEN (ST-10) where he completed two deployments to Afghanistan with Special Operations Task Force-Southeast, and Strike Fighter Squadron ONE NINE FIVE (VFA-195) also known as the “Dambusters” where he completed three deployments in the Indonesian-Pacific Region onboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76).

His shore duty assignments include Assault Craft Unit TWO (ACU 2), Recruit Training Command (RTC) where he served as a Recruit Division Commander, the United States Naval Academy (USNA) where he served as a Company Senior Enlisted Leader, and Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ONE (HX-21) also known as the “Blackjacks” where he currently serves as the Command Senior Chief.

He is qualified as an Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS), Enlisted Expeditionary Warfare Specialist (EXW), Enlisted Information Warfare Specialist (EIWS), Enlisted Air Warfare Specialist (EAWS), Master Training Specialist (MTS), Advanced Warrior Toughness Training Instructor, and Command Navy Leader Development (CNLD) and Chief Petty Officer CNLD Facilitator.  He is a graduate of the Georgetown University Institute for Transformational Leadership Coaching Skills for Leaders Course, USNA Leadership Coaching Course, Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 254), and the Command Master Chief and Chief of the Boat Course (Class 24080).

His personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), Army Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (seven awards), Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal (seven awards), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Navy Rifle Expert Medal, Navy Pistol Expert Medal, and various unit and campaign awards.

HX-21 Points of Contact

HX-21 Duty Office: 301-342-1762 
HX-21 Administration Department: 301-342-4461
HX-21 Email: Administration Department

The mission of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two One (HX-21) is to execute developmental flight test and evaluation of rotary-wing and tilt-rotor aircraft, and their associated airborne systems in support of all United States Navy and Marine Corps training, combat, and combat support missions. The goal of HX-21 is to provide the highest quality evaluation and reporting in support of the aircraft program managers and the fleet warfighters. Exemplifying the Navy and Marine Corps' ethos, the pride and professionalism inherent in everything HX-21 does has established it as the "World's Greatest Test Squadron."

HX-21 History

Welcome to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two One (HX-21), a component command of Naval Test Wing Atlantic. The test and evaluation of rotary-wing aircraft by the United States Navy traces its beginning to the establishment of the rotary wing section of the flight test division at Naval Air Test Center, Patuxent River, Maryland, on April 25, 1949.  In 1975, the rotary-wing test section was renamed the Rotary Wing Test Directorate, and was formally established as an air test and evaluation squadron in 2002.  HX-21 continues to build upon its proud heritage conducting rotary-wing and tilt-rotor developmental flight test in support of U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard acquisition and fleet support programs.

In 2018, the squadron operated 33 aircraft of nine different Type/Model/Series. Seven of the programs the squadron supported were categorized as Major Defense Acquisition Category ONE programs (ACAT I). These programs were: V-22, UH-1Y, AH-1Z, CH-53K, MH-60R, and MH-60S.

In 2018, HX-21 executed 246 Chief of Naval Operations-directed test and evaluation (T&E) projects on nine different Type/Model/Series aircraft, totaling 1,215 sorties and 1,926.8 flight hours, and surpassing 123,586.9 total flight hours of Class "A" mishap-free flight operations.  HX-21 also executed 318 flight tests totaling 692.3 test hours and performed 8,500.0 hours of ground test.  Squadron test pilots logged 7,941 landings in squadron aircraft including 229 shipboard landings in support of multiple high risk suitability/compatibility tests.  In addition to 87 active duty Navy and

Marine Corps personnel, HX-21 also employs  38 government civilians and 353 contractors over seven different contracts.  In support of HX-21 T&E missions, DynCorp contract maintenance personnel performed 25,189 maintenance actions totaling 81,376.9 maintenance man-hours which included 4,272 maintenance actions and 13,544.5 maintenance man-hours in support of NAS Patuxent River Search and Rescue aircraft.

The success of HX-21 depends on mission-critical relationships with our key acquisition partners, including NAS Patuxent River, the Marine Aviation Detachment, NAVAIR competencies, our industry partners and the following program offices: Aircrew Systems (PMA-202), Aviation Training Systems (PMA-205), Air Combat Electronics (PMA-209), Naval Air Traffic Management Systems (PMA-213), Direct and Time Sensitive Strike (PMA-242), Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment (PMA-251), H-53 and Executive Transport Helicopters (PMA-261), Air Anti-Submarine Warfare Systems (PMA-264), Advanced Tactical Aircraft Protection Systems (PMA-272), Presidential Helicopters Program (PMA-274), V-22 Osprey Program (PMA-275), H-1 Helicopter Program (PMA-276), Strike Planning and Execution (PMA-281), Multi-Mission Helicopters H-60 (PMA-299), and Mine Warfare (PMS-495).

Lt. Col. Aaron Okun 

HX-21 Commanding Officer

Lieutenant Colonel Aaron E. Okun, a native of Canton, MA, received a Bachelor of Science with distinction in Aerospace Engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2007 and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant.  After completing The Basic School and flight training, 1st LT Okun reported to the “Raging Bulls” of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 261 and deployed on the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and to OEF 14.1, holding the billets of embark officer and airframes officer.

Following OEF 14.1, Capt Okun began operational test flight duties for the “Argonauts” of VMX-22 serving as the Aviation Safety Officer.  In June 2016, Capt Okun became a plank holder of the re-designated Marine Operational Test Squadron One (VMX-1).  While at VMX-1, Capt Okun conducted multiple V-22 operational tests and was the lead project officer for the Universal Urgent Needs Statement (UUNS) fielding of survivability equipment.

In 2017, Capt Okun completed training at the United States Naval Test Pilot School (USNTPS). Upon graduation, Maj Okun was assigned to the “Blackjacks” of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two One (HX-21) where he conducted numerous flight tests including aerial refueling envelope expansion, structural and fatigue testing, and five Dynamic Interface (DI) test periods.  Additionally, he was the lead project officer for Reduced Visibility Landing Symbology upgrades and recirculation investigations. While serving as the Government Flight Test Director (GFTD) throughout 2020, he had oversight of initial CMV-22 testing through Operational Test Readiness Review.

In July 2021, Maj Okun was assigned to the V-22 Joint Program Office (JPO) as the Survivability Integrated Product Team Lead (IPTL), as well as the military lead for strategic planning.  In September 2022, he assumed the role of Hard Clutch Engagement (HCE) Team Lead and led a diverse government and industry team in resolving the HCE risk.  Following his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel and selection for command, he has been the Blackjack’s Chief Test Pilot since June 2023.

He is a DAWIA practitioner in both Test and Evaluation and Program Management and holds Masters degrees in System Engineering from Naval Postgraduate School and in Leadership Studies from Marshall University.  LtCol Okun’s personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal and an Individual Strike/Flight Air Medal.  Additionally, he was the Society of Experimental Test Pilots 2022 Tenhoff Award recipient and has logged flight time in over 30 different aircraft.

Cmdr. Michael Lindsey

HX-21 Chief Test Pilot

Cmdr. Michael Lindsey, a native of Palmdale, CA, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the United States Naval Academy in 2008.  Following graduation, he reported to NAS Pensacola to begin flight school.  After completing fixed wing training at NAS Corpus Christi and rotary wing training at NAS Whiting Field, Lindsey received his wings of gold in June 2010.

Upon completion of Fleet Replacement Pilot training in the MH-60S, Lindsey reported to the “Eightballers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron EIGHT (HSC-8) where he served as the squadron’s Legal Officer, Training and Readiness Officer, and NATOPS Officer.  He deployed twice with the Eightballers as a MH-60S Aircraft Commander and Level III Anti-Surface Warfare, Personnel Recovery, and Special Operations Forces qualified pilot on board USS JOHN C STENNIS (CVN-78) and USS MOBILE BAY (CG-53) in support of Operation New Dawn and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Lindsey was then board selected to attend the United States Naval Test Pilot School and successfully graduated as a member of Class 147 in June 2015.  He then reported to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ONE (HX-21) where he served as MH-60R/S Developmental Test Pilot and Project Officer.  He led several test projects, to include platform hardware, software and envelope expansion, designed to increase the capability of the MH-60R/S for fleet operators. After hours, Lindsey completed a rigorous distance-learning curriculum and graduated with a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from Johns Hopkins University. Nearing the end of his tour at HX-21, Lindsey selected for lateral transfer to Aerospace Engineering Duty Officer.

Lindsey reported to NAVAIR’s Program Office for Multi-Mission Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems (PMA-266) in April 2018 and served as the Fire Scout Ship Integration Level 1 IPT Lead until April 2021. At PMA-266, he was responsible for the cost, schedule, and performance of the MQ-8 Fire Scout Mission Control Station. Throughout his time at 266, he has seen the MQ-8C through Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E), Initial Operational Capability (IOC) declaration, fleet fielding of the MQ-8C and Mobile Mission Control Station (MMCS), and sustainment of the MQ-8B.

Following his tour at PMA-266, CDR Lindsey reported to the Ghost Wolves of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO FOUR (UX-24) as the MQ-8 Fire Scout Government Flight Test Director. He was responsible for the planning, monitoring, scheduling, execution, and reporting of all MQ-8B/C Fire Scout Developmental Test and Evaluation. Significant achievement during his tenure included executing the first ever strategic airlift and overseas detachment of MQ-8C for International Maritime Exercise 2023, as well as publishing expanded wind envelopes for flight operations aboard Littoral Combat Ship.

Next, Lindsey reported to the Naval Undergraduate Flight Training Systems Program Office (PMA-273) in January 2024 as the T-45 Deputy Program Manager. At PMA-273, he was directly responsible for managing all sustainment efforts for the Navy and Marine Corps carrier based fixed wing training platform. Shortly after beginning his tour, Lindsey was selected for command of HX-21. He began his tour at HX-21 as the Chief Test Pilot in February 2025.

Cmdr. Lindsey has over 1,600 flight hours in 22 different Type/Model/Series aircraft. 

Cmdr. James Malvasio

HX-21 Executive Officer

Commander (CDR) James Malvasio was born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in New Jersey.  Graduating from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 2002, he received a commission through the NROTC program and was designated a Naval Aviator in 2004.

Upon completion of H-60F/H training, he served with the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron FIVE (HS-5) from April 2005 to April 2008 in Jacksonville, Florida.  At HS-5, Commander Malvasio completed one deployment on board USS EISENHOWER (CVN 69) to support Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

From June 2008 to January 2011, Commander Malvasio served as an Operational Test Pilot at Air Test and Evaluation ONE (VX-1) in Patuxent River, Maryland.  There he simultaneously led all MH-60S “Armed-Helo” testing efforts as the Operational Test Director and earned an Executive Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the Naval Postgraduate School.

From February 2011 to May 2013, Commander Malvasio was by-name selected to transition the “Dusty Dogs” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron SEVEN (HSC-7) from the H-60F/H to the MH-60S in Norfolk, VA.  There he served in a Department Head role as the Training Officer and Safety Officer in support of the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) Strike Group.

From June 2013 to October 2015, Commander Malvasio returned to the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron FIVE (HSC-5) in Norfolk, VA, successfully transitioning them to the MH-60S.  There he served as the Safety Officer, Training Officer, Operations Officer, and Maintenance Officer and became one of the U.S. Navy’s first H-60 Fixed-Forward Firing Weapons Instructors.  He also led four detachments as Officer-in-Charge supporting the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) Strike Group.

From November 2015 to November 2016, Commander Malvasio earned a Master’s Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.  In December 2016, he reported to US Special Operations Command as the Theater Maritime Requirements Manager for all Naval Special Warfare Command equities and Precision Strike Weapon Systems throughout the SOCOM enterprise.  Before detaching in February 2020, he deployed to Afghanistan with SOJTF-A/NSOCC-A from May 2019 to October 2019 as the Global Force Manager for all NATO SOF requirements and Lead Planner for the initial drawdown efforts within the Afghanistan AOR.

In March 2020, Commander Malvasio reported to Expeditionary Strike Group TWO (ESG-2) as the Deputy Operations Officer and Lead Scheduler for all 14 East Coast Amphibious Class ships in support of US Fleet Forces (USFF) and Commander, SECOND Fleet.  He also coordinated all Defense Support of Civil Authorities efforts and deployed to Louisiana with MARFORNORTH as the USFF Liaison Officer in support of Hurricane Ida relief.

In January 2022, Commander Malvasio reported to HX-21 as Executive Officer.  He has accumulated over 2500 flight hours in naval aircraft, and is the recipient of the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (three awards) and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

Senior Chief Conrad Lampasona

Command Senior Chief

Command Senior Chief Lampasona, is a native of Long Island, New York.  He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in February 2001 and upon completion of Recruit Training in Great Lakes, Illinois, he attended Yeoman “A” School in Meridian, Mississippi.

His sea duty assignments include the USS Vella Gulf (CG-72) where he completed two deployments to the Persian Gulf and a Baltic Operations Exercise, Riverine Squadron ONE (RIVRON ONE) where he completed three deployments to Iraq, SEAL Team TEN (ST-10) where he completed two deployments to Afghanistan with Special Operations Task Force-Southeast, and Strike Fighter Squadron ONE NINE FIVE (VFA-195) also known as the “Dambusters” where he completed three deployments in the Indonesian-Pacific Region onboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76).

His shore duty assignments include Assault Craft Unit TWO (ACU 2), Recruit Training Command (RTC) where he served as a Recruit Division Commander, the United States Naval Academy (USNA) where he served as a Company Senior Enlisted Leader, and Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ONE (HX-21) also known as the “Blackjacks” where he currently serves as the Command Senior Chief.

He is qualified as an Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS), Enlisted Expeditionary Warfare Specialist (EXW), Enlisted Information Warfare Specialist (EIWS), Enlisted Air Warfare Specialist (EAWS), Master Training Specialist (MTS), Advanced Warrior Toughness Training Instructor, and Command Navy Leader Development (CNLD) and Chief Petty Officer CNLD Facilitator.  He is a graduate of the Georgetown University Institute for Transformational Leadership Coaching Skills for Leaders Course, USNA Leadership Coaching Course, Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 254), and the Command Master Chief and Chief of the Boat Course (Class 24080).

His personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), Army Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (seven awards), Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal (seven awards), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Navy Rifle Expert Medal, Navy Pistol Expert Medal, and various unit and campaign awards.

HX-21 Points of Contact

HX-21 Duty Office: 301-342-1762 
HX-21 Administration Department: 301-342-4461
HX-21 Email: Administration Department