Mission Our mission is to employ the IFC-4 MQ-4C Triton aircraft to provide persistent ISR, distributing valuable and time-critical intelligence to Combatant and Fleet Commanders.
History Unmanned Patrol Squadron ONE ONE (VUP-11) is the second Unmanned Patrol Squadron established by the U.S. Navy and is tasked with operating the MQ-4C Triton high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) unmanned aircraft system (UAS). Alongside its sister squadron, VUP-19, VUP-11 utilizes the Triton as a persistent force multiplier, enhancing situational awareness within the battlespace and shortening the sensor-to-shooter decision loop in the maritime domain. The MQ-4C Triton, in its Multi-Intelligence (Multi-INT) Integrated Functional Capability (IFC-4) variant, serves as the cornerstone of the Navy’s Family-of-Systems solution, laying the foundation for the future of Fleet Maritime Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (MISR&T). Triton’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform is also helping to advance the Navy’s increasing investment in Distributed SIGINT and GEOINT Operations (DSO/DGO). VUP-11 is composed of both active-duty and civilian personnel, and its legacy is rooted in the distinguished histories of Patrol Squadron ONE ONE (VP-11) “Proud Pegasus” and Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron ONE (VQ-1) “World Watchers.” VP-11 was established on May 15, 1953, at NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island, before relocating to NAS Brunswick, Maine, where it was disestablished on August 2, 1997. VQ-1 was established on June 1, 1955, at NAS Iwakuni, Japan, and later moved to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, where it was disestablished on March 28, 2025. Also based at NAS Whidbey Island, VUP-11’s distinct focus on unmanned aircraft operations dedicated to ISR excellence honors the proud traditions of both VP-11 and VQ-1. VQ-1’s unparalleled contributions to the Navy’s ISR mission, along with many of its personnel, have been fully integrated into VUP-11’s growing strength, shaping the squadron’s emerging reputation at NAS Whidbey Island. Officially established on October 1, 2024, VUP-11 is undergoing rapid growth as it progresses through a multi-year standup period. A formal establishment ceremony is scheduled for late 2025, followed by commencement of initial flight operations. The squadron is on track to assume full flight operations at NAS Whidbey Island by 2027 and full maintenance operations at NBVC Point Mugu by 2029.