CDR Eric Zilberman, USN
Editorial Board
A native of Belmont, CA, Commander Zilberman graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering and from the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in 2006 with a Master of Science in Systems Technology. After receiving his wings in July 2008, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106) where he completed flight training in the F/A-18 A-D Hornet.
From 2009 to 2012 he flew with the Blue Blasters of Strike Fighter Squadron 34 (VFA-34) based out of Virginia Beach,VA and completed two combat deployments and flew 40 combat missions in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn.
CDR Zilberman was selected to the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School and graduated with Class 143 in July 2013. He then served as Experimental Test Pilot / Project Officer at Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 23 (VX-23) from 2013 to 2016 and was responsible for over 20 developmental test efforts.
He returned to Virginia Beach, VA, and joined the Ragin’ Bulls of Strike Fighter Squadron 37 (VFA-37) where he completed his department head tour. With the Bulls, he completed his third combat deployment and flew 19 combat missions in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. CDR Zilberman was selected for Aerospace Engineering Duty Officer (AEDO) and Acquisition Corps during this time.
CDR Zilberman is currently serving at PMA-213 as the Class Desk Officer. He has over 2,000 military and civilian flight hours in 28 different aircraft types. His personal decorations include the Air Medal (three awards), Navy Commendation Medal, and Navy Achievement Medal. He was selected as the Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic Pilot of the Year in 2012.