The Red Lancers of Patrol Squadron (VP) 10 conducted a static display at Naval Station Norfolk Chambers Field, Va. on Dec. 7 for Gen. Glen D. VanHerck, commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (NORTHCOM).
The tour provided the combatant commander an opportunity to see first-hand the aircraft and its role in NORTHCOM operations. NORTHCOM conducts homeland defense, civil support, and security cooperation to defend and secure the United States and its interest.
The static display of the Boeing P-8A Poseidon provided the Red Lancers an opportunity to showcase the vast capabilities of the multi-mission aircraft.
Accompanying VanHerck on the tour was Rear Adm. Lance Scott, commander of the Patrol and Reconnaissance Group. Scott, along with Cmdr. Russell White, commanding officer of Patrol Squadron (VP) 10, guided VanHerck through the tour of the aircraft to discuss the different capabilities of the aircraft, specifically its anti-submarine capability.
According to White, “It’s vital that we as a community showcase the enormous role the P-8A plays in the defense of our nation. Opportunities like this allow higher-level commanders to improve their mission effectiveness by integrating a multi-mission platform, like the P-8A.”
Each crewmember was given the opportunity to speak directly to VanHerck and describe their specific duties on the crew. “The tour of the aircraft provided an incredible opportunity for the Patrol and Reconnaissance Group to demonstrate the P-8A’s ability to collect acoustic, electronic, and imagery intelligence during critical missions at home and abroad,” stated Scott.
Lt. Jordan Feight, the patrol plane commander, was able to showcase the P-8A flight deck and the effectiveness of the aircraft’s automation system to VanHerck. “The automation the P-8A expands the situational awareness of the flight crew during crucial evolutions,” stated Feight.
The Red Lancers, based in Jacksonville, Fla., continue to execute their demanding home cycle operations and remain ready to serve the Navy when called upon.