KEFLAVIK, Iceland –
Patrol Squadron (VP) FOUR alongside maritime forces from eight partner nations, began its participation in the U.K.-hosted exercise Joint Warrior (JW) 21-1 off the coast of Scotland, Apr. 09, 2021.
Joint Warrior is a biannual, multilateral, multi-warfare exercise that incorporates surface, subsurface, airborne, and land assets providing joint training in a multi-threat environment for NATO units, as well as conducting certifications for the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG). The exercise is executed by the Joint Tactical Exercise Planning Staff in the U.K., with the intent to improve interoperability between Allied and partner navies. Other nations who participated in JW 21-1 include Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, and Poland.
“VP-4’s participation in Joint Warrior 21-1 allowed the Skinny Dragons a unique opportunity to fly with NATO Allies while enhancing readiness in support of ASW, ASUW, and Direct Support operations,” said CDR Johnny Harkins, VP-4 Commanding Officer. “Our Combat Aircrews employed their tactics and skills while demonstrating the full range of capabilities of the P-8A Poseidon.”
Commander, Task Group (CTG) 67.8, composed of VP-4, provided three P-8A Poseidon aircraft to participate in the exercise. Combat Aircrews demonstrated the P-8A’s ability as a long-range ASW asset by transiting from detachment sites within the SIXTH Fleet AOR to the waters off Scotland’s coast.
“Joint Warrior is an excellent opportunity for us to hone our ASW skills,” said Naval Aircrewman Operator 2nd class Kelly Jackson, a VP-4 acoustic operator. “Working together with partner nations allows us the chance to improve our interoperability while preparing us for real world situations.”
VP-4 is currently assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 67 and is deployed to the U.S. SIXTH Fleet area of responsibility. CTF 67 is composed of land-based maritime patrol aircraft that operate over the waters of the Mediterranean and North Atlantic conducting anti-submarine, reconnaissance, surveillance, and search and rescue missions.