In November 1999, VP-4 flew to NAS North Island, California to take part in Joint Fleet Exercise (JTFEX/FLEETEX). Following the September eleven assaults, VP-four deployed to the US Central Command (USCENTCOM) AOR under Commander, Task Force 57 (CTF 57), a subordinate ingredient of US Naval Forces Central Command (USNAVCENT)/US fifth Fleet. In December 1998, VP-4 again deployed to six sites around the Middle East, during their deployment, the squadron participated in three combat operations: Operation Desert Fox, where they have been awarded the Navy Unit Commendation