Officially Licensed VX-9 Vampires Leather Patch — Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 9 Vampires Leather Patch
The Vampires in leather — VX-9's iconic squadron design in premium leather, representing the Navy's test and evaluation elite at China Lake.
Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 9 (VX-9), the "Vampires," is the U.S. Navy's primary operational test and evaluation squadron for strike aircraft and weapons systems, based at Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake, California, carrying the tail code "XE." This leather patch presents VX-9's distinctive Vampires design in a premium leather format that offers a unique tactile quality and classic appearance.
VX-9 operates virtually every tactical jet in the Navy's inventory, including the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, and F-35C Lightning II. The Vampires' test pilots and weapons system operators are among the most experienced aviators in naval aviation, selected for their ability to evaluate new weapons, sensors, electronic warfare systems, and tactics under rigorous test conditions. The squadron's work at China Lake — the Navy's premier weapons test range — determines whether new capabilities are ready for fleet deployment.
The leather format elevates this patch beyond standard military patches, creating a distinctive collectible that reflects VX-9's elite status within the Navy's test and evaluation community. The natural leather material develops a unique patina over time, making each patch increasingly individual.
Perfect For: VX-9 Vampires members and veterans, Navy test and evaluation professionals, NAWS China Lake personnel, naval aviation enthusiasts, and leather military patch collectors.
VX-9 Vampires — the Vampires' bite in leather — premium materials for the Navy's premier test squadron.