Residents near the installation may experience temporary GPS interruptions on ground-based navigation systems, electronic devices, and GPS-enabled smartphone apps when the U.S. Navy’s Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two One (HX-21) conducts flight operations from April 1 to April 12 between 10 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.

The interruptions are part of scheduled flight operations by HX-21, known for its role in executing developmental flight tests and evaluations for rotary-wing and tilt-rotor aircraft. Despite potential disruptions, GPS reliability is expected to resume after 5:30 a.m. once the flight operations conclude.

What is HX-21?

Many people may not have ever heard of HX-21. But, the Naval test and evaluation unit has been around for quite a while. 

HX-21 boasts a rich history dating back to 1949. The squadron’s mission is to provide the highest quality evaluation and reporting in support of aircraft program managers and fleet warfighters for the United States Navy and Marine Corps.

In 2018, HX-21 operated 33 aircraft of nine different types, including major programs such as V-22, UH-1Y, AH-1Z, CH-53K, MH-60R, and MH-60S. During that year, the squadron executed 246 Chief of Naval Operations-directed test and evaluation projects, totaling over 1,200 sorties and nearly 2,000 flight hours.

Despite the temporary GPS interruptions, the contributions of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron HX-21 to naval aviation innovation remain unwavering, solidifying its reputation as a cornerstone of excellence in the field.