The Mad Foxes of Patrol Squadron (VP) 5 began a seven-month deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations, following a turnover ceremony at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, July 15.

VP-5 relieved The War Eagles of Patrol Squadron 16, based out of Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida, assuming maritime patrol and reconnaissance efforts in support of national interests in the 7th Fleet operating area.

Like its predecessor, VP-5 flies the Navy's newest maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, the P-8A Poseidon. The P-8A brings the latest technology to the maritime patrol and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission, making it the most advanced anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare aircraft in the world.

"The Mad Foxes are well-prepared for this deployment and excited to be part of the P-8A movement to the fleet," said Cmdr. Gregory Petrovic, VP-5 commanding officer. "We are more than ready to meet and exceed expectations in support of the 7th Fleet mission and those of its allies."

The movement of VP-5 and its P-8A aircraft to the 7th Fleet is part of the Navy's ongoing plan to rotate newer and more capable aircraft forward to ensure the U.S. is best postured to honor its security commitments and to contribute to regional security and stability.