NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md. — Capt. Todd Keith assumed command of the Navy’s Strike Planning and Execution Systems program office (PMA-281) from Capt. Jerick Black during a change of command ceremony on June 18, 2025, at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum. Rear Adm. Stephen Tedford, head of the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons, presided over the event, praising Black’s leadership and contributions.
“Through innovation and collaboration, Capt. Black took the critical first steps in establishing an AI clearinghouse that consolidates AI and autonomy software to ensure long-term benefits across the naval enterprise,” Tedford said. “By consistently and transparently advocating for what his program needed…he has built not only a credible reputation for himself and the program office, but for delivering required capabilities on time.”
Black, during his tenure, led over 270 personnel managing a $2.4 billion portfolio of joint and international software-intensive programs. These efforts supported more than 40 naval aviation platforms, unmanned vehicles, and cruise missile systems, serving 180 global mission planning sites. His focus on collaborative solutions addressed evolving fleet requirements, enhancing mission planning capabilities across naval operations.
“I believe the enduring principle of PMA-281 is to unlock people’s potential with innovative technology to support and defend the Constitution,” Black said. “Our people are the first link in the kill chain…they represent whole teams of people supporting naval mission planning, theater mission planning, air wing ship integration and autonomy mission planning. Our people are the mission.”
Keith, the incoming commander, brings extensive experience as a graduate of the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School Airborne Systems program, with over 2,000 flight hours in 25 jet models. He transitioned to Aviation Engineering Duty Officer in 2014, serving in roles such as T-45 mission systems lead at PMA-273, P-8A military class desk, deputy program manager for PMA-271, and deputy program manager for Aerial Targets (PMA-208). His background equips him to lead PMA-281’s complex acquisition programs.
“The men and women of PMA-281 are the heartbeat of this command. Your expertise, innovation, and unwavering commitment inspire me,” Keith said. “As your program manager, I pledge to lead with integrity, foster collaboration, and empower our teams to accelerate mission planning capabilities. It is a profound honor to join this team and assume command of this vital acquisition program.”
PMA-281 oversees the acquisition and life cycle management of mission planning, control systems, and execution tools, developed in partnership with other Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) program offices, U.S. military services, and foreign partners. The program office’s work supports critical naval aviation and strike capabilities, ensuring operational readiness for global missions.
The ceremony, held at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, marked a significant transition for PMA-281, located at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, a hub for naval aviation research and development. The museum, a venue steeped in naval history, provided a fitting backdrop for the event, attended by personnel and dignitaries.
Black’s leadership laid a foundation for advancements in AI and autonomy, positioning PMA-281 for future success. Keith’s appointment signals a commitment to building on these achievements, with a focus on innovation and collaboration to meet the Navy’s evolving needs.
