Naval Air Station Patuxent River recently saw a change in leadership as Lt. Col. Aaron Okun assumed command of the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (HX) 21 from Cmdr. Nicholas Green during a ceremony on February 13. The transition, overseen by Naval Test Wing Atlantic Commodore Capt. Elizabeth Somerville, highlighted the squadron’s essential role in advancing naval aviation.
Captain Somerville commended HX-21 for its contributions to the development of advanced rotary-wing and tilt-rotor aircraft, emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining high operational standards in aviation. She expressed confidence in Lt. Col. Okun’s ability to lead the squadron forward and acknowledged Cmdr. Green’s exemplary leadership during his tenure.
Lt. Col. Okun brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as HX-21’s Chief Test Pilot. With a background in flight testing, operational evaluation, and aviation development, Okun is well-equipped to guide the squadron in its mission to enhance naval aviation capabilities. Cmdr. Green, who led the squadron since June 2023, will transition to the V-22 Joint Program Office in a new leadership role.
A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Okun holds a degree in aerospace engineering and has a distinguished career in aviation, including deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. His training at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School and his previous work with HX-21 on projects such as aerial refueling and fatigue testing have prepared him well for his new command.
In his address to the squadron, Lt. Col. Okun expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead and recognized the dedication of HX-21 personnel. He underscored his commitment to advancing the squadron’s mission and furthering the capabilities of naval aviation. Cmdr. Green, a seasoned H-60 Seahawk pilot, leaves behind a legacy of professionalism and excellence at HX-21.
The Blackjacks of HX-21, a vital component of Naval Test Wing Atlantic under the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, are responsible for developmental flight testing and evaluation of rotary-wing and tilt-rotor aircraft used by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. With a history dating back to 1949 at NAS Patuxent River, the squadron plays a crucial role in testing a variety of aircraft platforms, including heavy-lift helicopters, tiltrotors, attack and utility helicopters, and the Presidential Helicopter fleet.
As HX-21 continues to lead the way in developing the next generation of rotary-wing aircraft, Lt. Col. Okun’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of naval aviation. The squadron’s ongoing commitment to innovation ensures that Navy and Marine Corps aircraft remain at the forefront of operational readiness in modern warfare.
Expert Insights on Naval Aviation
To gain further insights into the significance of leadership changes in naval aviation, we spoke with aviation expert and former Navy pilot, Captain Sarah Thompson. Captain Thompson emphasized the importance of continuity in leadership within squadrons like HX-21, highlighting the need for seamless transitions to maintain operational effectiveness and morale.
“In a specialized field like naval aviation, leadership changes can have a significant impact on the squadron’s culture and operational readiness,” Captain Thompson explained. “Having a leader like Lt. Col. Okun, with his diverse background and experience, is crucial in ensuring that the squadron continues to meet the evolving challenges of modern warfare.”
As Naval Air Station Patuxent River welcomes a new commander for HX-21, the future of naval aviation looks promising under the guidance of seasoned leaders like Lt. Col. Aaron Okun. With a legacy of excellence and a commitment to innovation, the Blackjacks of HX-21 are poised to continue their vital role in shaping the future of naval aviation.
This engaging narrative showcases the importance of leadership in naval aviation and the dedication of individuals like Lt. Col. Okun and Cmdr. Green in advancing the capabilities of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Their contributions to HX-21 and the broader naval aviation community serve as a testament to the professionalism and expertise that define this critical sector.
