NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md.— Cmdr. Jessica Barrientos assumed command of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20 from Cmdr. Charles Larwood during a change of command ceremony at Naval Air Station Patuxent River on Oct. 3.
In his farewell remarks, Cmdr. Larwood expressed pride in his tenure as commanding officer, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of his squadron. “It has been a privilege to serve as the commanding officer of this outstanding squadron,” Larwood said. “VX-20 plays a critical role in the advancement of naval aviation, and I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together. Thank you to each member of this squadron for your dedication and hard work—your commitment has made this experience truly unforgettable.”
A native of Roswell, Georgia, Larwood has an extensive career as a P-8A pilot. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2004 with a degree in quantitative economics and later earned a master’s degree in operations research from the Naval Postgraduate School. His career includes serving as the commanding officer of Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron (VP) 45, operations officer of VP-8, and various roles during his P-3C operational tour. Larwood also served as the government flight test director for the P-8A program and as a test pilot with VX-20, contributing to numerous flight testing projects.
With over 3,000 flight hours in more than 25 aircraft types, Larwood has been honored with multiple awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal. Following the ceremony, he retired from the U.S. Navy after years of dedicated service.
Cmdr. Barrientos, who previously served as VX-20’s chief test pilot, now steps into the role of commanding officer. In her first address to the squadron, Barrientos praised the team and emphasized her commitment to continued excellence. “VX-20 tests emerging technologies that not only enhance our capabilities but also strengthen our national defense,” said Barrientos. “After more than six years of supporting VX-20, I am honored to take the helm and lead such a dedicated team. Together, we will continue to uphold our commitment to excellence, fostering innovation and teamwork as we serve our mission and support our nation.”
A native of Chicago, Illinois, Barrientos is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and earned her naval flight officer wings in 2007. She has deployed twice with Airborne Command & Control Squadron (VAW) 113, the “Black Eagles,” in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in the Western Pacific. Barrientos is also a Class 140 graduate of the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, where she played a vital role in the testing of E-2 and C-2 aircraft. She led the E-2/C-2 Integrated Test Team, supported the first deployment of the E-2D aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), and has held various leadership positions throughout her career, demonstrating her commitment to advancing naval aviation capabilities.
VX-20 plays a crucial role in the testing and evaluation of naval aviation systems, including flight testing throughout the weapons system lifecycle. The squadron conducts testing related to aircraft carrier suitability, navigation, aerial refueling, strategic airborne communications, airborne surveillance and intelligence collection, early warning systems, and carrier onboard delivery, among other missions.
The squadron operates under Naval Test Wing Atlantic, part of the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD). NAWCAD facilities in Patuxent River, Maryland, Lakehurst, New Jersey, and Orlando, Florida, support testing and evaluation efforts to advance naval aviation readiness and capabilities.
