PATUXENT RIVER, Md. — Col. Jay Zarra relinquished command of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23, known as the “Salty Dogs,” to Cmdr. Eric Zilberman during an airborne change-of-command ceremony over Naval Air Station Patuxent River on June 12, 2025. Zarra piloted an F-35B Lightning, while Zilberman flew an F/A-18F Super Hornet. Naval Test Wing Atlantic Commodore Capt. Elizabeth Somerville presided over the event, marking a significant transition for the Navy’s largest developmental test squadron.
“I have the ultimate confidence in the leadership of this incredible command to deliver what is needed – both for the fight today and the fight in the future – all while continuing to position those that will be in our roles many years from now with what they are going to need in order to ensure that success in the future,” said Somerville.
Zilberman, previously VX-23’s chief test pilot, assumes leadership with extensive experience in test and operational aviation. A native of Belmont, California, he is a decorated naval officer with a distinguished career. “We will continue to ensure the Navy sails the seas from a position of strength by developing, testing, and evaluating the most advanced, carrier-based, fixed-wing aircraft to soar the skies,” said Zilberman.
During his tenure, Zarra oversaw significant advancements, increasing the squadron’s execution rate by 20 percent across 1,700 sorties and 2,200 flight hours. These efforts enhanced capability and readiness for Navy and Marine Corps tactical aviation. “The advances that happen by VX-23 would not be possible without the motivation of the people who see them through,” said Zarra. He also highlighted the privilege of working with the Naval Air Systems Command to deter U.S. adversaries.
Zarra will next serve at the F-35 Joint Program Office in Crystal City, Virginia. His leadership at VX-23 strengthened the squadron’s role in advancing naval aviation through rigorous testing and evaluation.
VX-23, part of Naval Test Wing Atlantic under the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD), focuses on the research, development, test, and evaluation of fixed-wing tactical aircraft. The squadron provides aircraft, pilot assets, maintenance services, and safety oversight to ensure naval aviation remains at the forefront of technological and operational readiness. With facilities in Patuxent River; Lakehurst, New Jersey; and Orlando, Florida, NAWCAD supports a broad mission to enhance naval capabilities.
The airborne ceremony underscored VX-23’s commitment to innovation, with the symbolic flight of advanced aircraft highlighting the squadron’s critical role. Zilberman’s leadership is expected to build on Zarra’s achievements, ensuring the Navy’s tactical aircraft meet future challenges. The squadron’s work directly supports carrier-based operations, equipping the Navy with cutting-edge technology to maintain maritime dominance.
NAWCAD, headquartered at Patuxent River, plays a pivotal role in naval aviation, overseeing testing and development across multiple platforms. VX-23’s contributions are integral to this mission, ensuring aircraft are combat-ready and capable of meeting evolving threats. The transition from Zarra to Zilberman marks a continuation of this legacy, with the squadron poised to advance naval aviation further under new leadership.
