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The US Navy's VX-23 squadron, known as the Salty Dogs, plays a critical role in testing and evaluating naval aircraft and systems. Stationed at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in Maryland, they are tasked with research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) for both the Navy and Marine Corps. The squadron is part of the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD).
Their work involves rigorous testing under various conditions to ensure that all carrier-based aircraft meet standards of readiness and performance. "Their work is described as testing systems (and aircraft) in a range of operational and environmental scenarios," including combat maneuvering and maritime conditions.
The Salty Dogs operate several platforms based on Navy requirements, logging around 3,000 flight hours annually. Their focus includes carrier suitability testing and weapons systems evaluations. Captain Matthew Kosnar, a former Commanding Officer of VX-23, noted their contributions to fleet lethality and readiness.
