Edwards AFB Sailors get new skipper

  • Published
  • By Kenji Thuloweit
  • 412th Test Wing Public Affairs

Commander Ernest Anderson took command of VX-9 DET Edwards during a change of command ceremony in Hangar 1810 Sept. 20.

Anderson will oversee the local testing of the F-35C — the U.S. Navy’s version of the new fifth-generation fighter.

Anderson previously served as the executive officer for VX-9 DET Edwards and succeeds U.S. Navy Capt. Matt Norris.

The VX-9 detachment at Edwards AFB is a tenant unit that falls under the Navy’s Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Nine based out of Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, California.

VX-9’s mission statement reads, “Support of our National Military Strategy by providing new warfighting capability to the fleet by testing aircraft, weapons, and weapon systems in an operationally relevant environment. Develop advanced warfighting tactics for the fleet operator to enable him/her to lay waste to our enemies with violent prejudice.”

The Navy’s F-35C is one of three versions of the F-35 Lightning II fifth-generation fighter. The C version is equipped for aircraft carrier operations.