Cmdr. Charles Larwood took command of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20 from Cmdr. John Walsh during a change of command ceremony at Naval Air Station Patuxent River today.

"VX-20 tests the emerging technology that can prevent future conflicts and enable our warfighters to win," said Larwood. "I've been lucky to serve the Force on three separate occasions–this team is fully committed to the defense of our great nation."

Larwood assumes command after serving as VX-20’s Chief Test Pilot. The Georgia native is a U.S. Naval Academy alum and has flown with multiple squadrons through his career, during which he advanced critical projects including envelope expansion for P-8A and MQ-4C, refueling compatibility testing for KC-30, and multiple weapons programs. Through his career, he has earned multiple service medals and awards, and is a Class 141 graduate of the Navy's prestigious U.S. Naval Test Pilot School (USNTPS).

"The Force is critical to advancing warfighter capability as quickly as possible," said Walsh. "This squadron's outstanding ability to adapt and overcome the challenges put in front of them is nothing short of amazing."

The U.S. Naval Academy alum and New Jersey native departs the Force with more than 1,800 hours in 23 different jet, prop, and rotary aircraft. Through his career, he's flown with multiple squadrons and supported Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Walsh has more than 15 years of acquisition experience supporting multiple program offices, a number of service awards and medals, and is a Class 133 graduate of the USNTPS.

VX-20 is responsible for active flight test and evaluation in all phases of the weapons system life cycle, including aircraft carrier suitability testing, navigation, aerial refueling, strategic airborne communications, airborne surveillance and intelligence collection, airborne early warning systems, carrier onboard delivery and advanced training aircraft missions.

VX-20 is a component of Naval Test Wing Atlantic, under Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division. With facilities in Patuxent River, Maryland; Lakehurst, New Jersey; and Orlando, Florida NAWCAD advances capability and operational readiness for naval aviation.

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