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Helicopters On Military Flight Decks

Dynamic scenes of helicopters landing on naval ships, showcasing military aviation operations in varying weather and ocean conditions.

A US Navy SH-60F Seahawk hovers above the flight deck of USS Eisenhower. USS Eisenhower is operating in the 5th fleet area of responsibility off the coast of Pakistan.

220813-N-VJ326-1300 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 13, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 13, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

221213-N-UF592-1126 PHILIPPINE SEA (Dec. 13, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk, attached to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12, flies by the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Philippine Sea, Dec. 13. HSC 12, originally established as Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 2 on March 7, 1952, is the oldest active operational Navy helicopter squadron. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports Alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

An MH-60S Nighthawk attached to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9 approaches the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) flight deck during an ammunition onload, Sept. 25, 2022. Ford is underway in Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and workups for a scheduled deployment this fall.

U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswains Mate 3rd Class Dustin McQuown assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4), and a native of Pasadena, Texas, directs a Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, as it takes off to conduct a close air support mission for an amphibious raid, Jan. 6, 2024. The 15th MEU is currently embarked aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group conducting integrated training and routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

220512-O-NR876-942SEA OF JAPAN (May 12, 2022) The MH-60S Seahawk helicopter Night Rider 07” from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, Detachment 6, lands on the flight deck of the Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) for personnel transfer during Exercise Noble Vanguard. Noble Vanguard serves as an enabler to reinforce tactics and techniques of different mission sets that contribute to regional stability.

DN-ST-85-04003. Subject Operation/Series: INTENSE LOOK Base: USS Shreveport (LPD 12) Country: Gulf Of Suez

220805-N-XN177-1172 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 5, 2022) - A CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) takes off from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 5, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

220807-N-XN177-1022 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 7, 2022) - A UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) takes off from amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 7, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

060219-N-2970T-025. Base: USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49)

EAST CHINA SEA (March 9, 2015) Sailors assigned to the Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) take cover after chocking and chaining an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Island Knights of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25. Ashland is underway in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

220827-N-JR318-1063 IONIAN SEA (Aug. 27, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to the "Dragonslayers" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11, takes off from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) during a vertical replenishment with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), Aug. 27, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

220730-N-VJ326-1133 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 30, 2022) - Sailors and Marines board an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), July 30, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

A CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter of Composite Helicopter Squadron Detachment 4 approaches the amphibious assault ship USS TRIPOLI (LPH-10) during a vertical replenishment (VERTREP). The pilot of the helicopter is LT. Susan Marshall, assigned to USNS NIAGARA FALLS (T-AFS-3). Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jan. 16, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the "Chargers" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14, takes off from the flight deck of USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A helicopter lands on the flight deck of the USS Anchorage as the Navy ship makes its way to the recovery zone for NASA's Orion spacecraft on Dec. 1, 2014. Orion is scheduled to launch on Exploration Flight Test-1 (EFT-1) from Florida on Dec. 4, and splashdown 4.5 hours later in the Pacific Ocean, where it will be picked up by the Anchorage. Part of Batch image transfer from Flickr.

221026-N-XB010-1005 PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 26, 2022) - Aviation Boatswains Mate (Aircraft Handling) 3rd Class Jaquan Morgan, from Bronx, New York, signals to an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the “Golden Falcons” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 to cut its engines on the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) flight deck while in the Philippine Sea. New Orleans, assigned to Task Force 76/3, joined forces with The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group to conduct combined integrated operations with maritime forces from Canada and Japan to experiment with naval concepts in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

220729-N-IL330-2133 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 29, 2022) - U.S. Marines board a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) as it prepares to take off from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), July 29, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

DN-ST-89-02373. Country: Unknown

GULF OF OMAN (May 6, 2013) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter picks up cargo from the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Medgar Evers (T-AKE 13) during a replenishment-at-sea with the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Kearsarge is the flagship for the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

110330-N-ZS029-488INDIAN OCEAN (March 30, 2011) A merchant marine aboard the Military Sealift Command replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199) prepares to attach a cargo net to an MH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Wildcards of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, in transit to the amphibious transport ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) (not pictured). Green Bay is part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group underway supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

111221-N-PB383-374 PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 21, 2011) A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter, assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 268 Reinforced, transfers cargo from the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199) to the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) during a replenishment at sea. New Orleans and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU) are operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group.

An MH-60S Seahawk helicopter from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, assigned to Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), conducts a vertical replenishment while underway in the Atlantic Ocean, Feb. 18, 2024. George Washington is conducting Tailored Ships Training Availability and Final Evaluation Problem (TSTA/FEP). TSTA prepares the ship and crew for full integration into a carrier strike group through a wide range of mission critical operations. Navy

110313-N-5694F-001PACIFIC OCEAN (Mach. 13, 2011) An SH-70B helicopter from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is off the coast of Japan rendering humanitarian assistance following an 8.9 magnitude earthquake and tsunami.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 15, 2022) A U.S. Navy MH-60R Seahawk helicopter, assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 37, takes off the flight deck of the Legend-class cutter USCGC Midgett (WSML 757) with simulated survivors to be transported to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Izumo (DDH-184) during a mass rescue exercise during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

230406-N-NX635-1124 EAST CHINA SEA (April 6, 2023) An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter from the Battlecats of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 73 takes off from the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) during a replenishment at sea. Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773, Marine Air Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, in support of Special Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII, rests while secured aboard the USS Mesa Verde (LPD-19) after conducting close air support operations along the coastal military training areas of Brazil in support of exercise UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 16, 2022. UNITAS, which is Latin for unity, was conceived in 1959 and has taken place annually since first conducted in 1960. This year marks the 63rd iteration of the worlds longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise. Additionally, this year Brazil will celebrate its bicentennial, a historical milestone commemorating 200 years of the countrys independence.

Task Force Rough Riders, Task Force Spartan, participate in amphibious operations and deck landing qualification on the expeditionary sea base USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB 3), in the Arabian Gulf, Nov. 10, 2022. Both UH-60 Blackhawks and AH-64 Apaches rehearse landing on Puller to extend operational range. Puller is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations and assigned to Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (TF 51/5). TF 51/5 coordinates, plans, and executes operations; conducts theater security cooperation; and advances emerging Naval concepts at sea, from the sea, and ashore in order to support U.S. Central Command theater objectives.

050115-N-6125G-022. Base: USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75)

U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswain's Mate Aircraft Handling 3rd Class Jawuan Morgan, assigned to USS New Orleans (LPD 18), directs Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 12, 2022. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

220526-N-BR419-1017 PHILIPPINE SEA (May 26, 2022) The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer JS Teruzuki (DD 116) sails in formation with the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The U.S. Navy and Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force routinely conduct naval exercises together, strengthening the U.S.-Japan alliance and maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

DN-ST-89-10619. Base: USS Jouett (CG 29) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

120720-N-ZE938-005CARIBBEAN SEA (July 20, 2012) An SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 48 prepares to take off from the flight deck of the Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate USS Underwood (FFG 36). Underwood is deployed to Central and South America and the Caribbean in support of Southern Seas 2012.

060413-N-9898L-083. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

PACIFIC OCEAN (February 16, 2024) Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) observe a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU) Air Combat Element (ACE), take off from the forward-deployed amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), while conducting flight operations in the Pacific Ocean, February 16. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navys largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Navy

220817-N-XN177-2388 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 17, 2022) - A CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) takes off from amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 17, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

SAN DIEGO, Calif. - A member of the Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 8 signals to the pilot in an H60-S Seahawk helicopter on the deck of the USS Anchorage as the ship departs Naval Base San Diego in California for the open waters of the Pacific Ocean. NASA and the U.S. Navy are making preparations ahead of Orion's flight test for recovery of the crew module, forward bay cover and parachutes on its return from space and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program is leading the recovery efforts.The first unpiloted flight test of Orion is scheduled to launch this week atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket. During its two-orbit, 4.5-hour flight, Orion will venture 3,600 miles in altitude and travel nearly 60,000 miles before returning to Earth for a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.

A flight deck crewman signals as SH-2F Seasprite light airborne multi-purpose system (LAMPS) helicopter upon landing on a Unitas XXI ship. The helicopter is attached to Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 34 (HAL-34). Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS XXI Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 30, 2021) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Archangels of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25 prepares to take off from the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 30, 2021. Marines and Sailors aboard America regularly conduct flight operations while underway to maintain their readiness to respond to contingencies. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is operating aboard ships of the America Expeditionary Strike Group in the U.S. 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (Marine Corps

040219-N-9742R-001. Base: USS Enterprise (CVN 65)

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2022) Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Jaden Journet directs an MH-60R Sea Hawk, assigned to the "Easyriders" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 37, on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90) as it departs Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

220920-N-ZG822-1336 ADRIATIC SEA (Sept. 20 2022) Sailors move cargo nets as an MH-60S Nighthawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, moves cargo from supply-class fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8) to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during a replenishment-at-sea, Sept. 20, 2022. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group 10 and the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG). The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86, VFA-103, VFA-136, VFA-143, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, HSC-5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The GHWBCSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

110322-N-SF508-093PACIFIC OCEAN (March 22, 2011) A crew member of the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9) attaches cargo to a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter assigned to the Flying Tigers of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 262 during a vertical replenishment. The Flying Tigers are conducting humanitarian assistance missions in Northern Japan as part of Operation Tomodachi.

A Sikorsky HSS-1N (SH-34J, UH-34J) submarine control helicopter (1960-1972) with a Westland Wasp Mk.1 Series 2 & Series 2A (AH-12A) submarine helicopter (1966-1981).

A CH-53E Super Stallion, attached to Marine Medium Tilt-rotor Squadron (VMM) 165, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), prepares to land on the flight deck aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 4), while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Jan. 15, 2024. The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of USS Boxer (LHD 4), USS Somerset (LPD 25), and Harpers Ferry, and the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit are underway conducting integrated training and routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 12, 2019) Marines assigned to the Marine Air-Ground Task Force, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), conduct fast-rope training aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). The 11th MEU is embarked aboard Boxer and acts as a forward-deployed expeditionary crisis response force and is ready to resolve conflicts, provide humanitarian assistance or combat the enemy in remote, austere environments that would be otherwise inaccessible.

220529-N-TI693-2103MEDITERRANEAN SEA (May 29, 2022) - Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Michael Duffy, from Philadelphia, signals an MH-60R helicopter to take off from the flight deck aboard the Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base USS Hershel "Woody" Williams (ESB 4) during Exercise Phoenix Express 22, May 29, 2022. Phoenix Express 22, conducted by U.S. Naval Forces Africa, is a maritime exercise designed to improve cooperation among participating nations in order to increase maritime safety and security in the Mediterranean.

DN-ST-90-03863. Base: Naval Station, Rota Country: Spain (ESP)

221020-N-ZG822-1592 ADRIATIC SEA (Oct. 20, 2022) Sailors attach a cargo hook to an MH-60S Nighthawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, to move cargo to the Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler Kanawha (T-AO 196) from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) while participating the NATO-led vigilance activity Neptune Strike 22.2 (NEST 22.2), in the Adriatic Sea, Oct. 20, 2022. NEST 22.2 is the natural evolution of NATO's ability to integrate the high-end maritime warfare capabilities of a carrier strike group to support the defense of the alliance in Europe.

050903-N-8154G-253. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT TASK FORCE (JTF) KATRINA Base: USS Bataan (LHD 5)

DN-ST-89-07565. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

EAST CHINA SEA (Sept. 1, 2022) Ensign Keji Akinadarijo, left, from Chicago, and Gunnery Sgt. Anthony Curtis, from Miami, both assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), supervise a vertical replenishment exercise with an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, Det. 6, on the ships flight deck while sailing in the East China Sea, Sept. 1, 2022. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready-response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

OSRD operation. Vertical transfer per helicopter to Hr.Ms. De Ruyter (1976-2001).

A U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom helicopter from Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773, Marine Air Group 49, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve in support of Special Marine Air-Ground Task Force awaits fuel aboard the USS Mesa Verde (LPD-19) while conducting cross deck international ship landing operations off the coast of Brazil in support of exercise UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 16, 2022. HMLA 773 serves as the Aviation Combat Element (ACE) for SPMAGTF-UNITAS LXIII throughout the exercise and executes missions ranging from troop transport, parachute operations, and close air support (CAS) missions for all 19 countries involved in this years UNITAS. UNITAS, which is Latin for unity, is the worlds longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that focuses on enhancing interoperability among multiple nations and joint forces during littoral and amphibious operations in order to build on existing regional partnerships and create new enduring relationships that pr

220525-N-XN177-1038 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 25, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 takes off from the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 25, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

120810-N-YF306-348 GULF OF ADEN (August 10, 2012) Seaman Joseluis Robles, from Oakland, Calif., directs an AS332 Super Puma helicopter assigned to the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE 7) to take off from the flight deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81). Winston S. Churchill is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

220703-N-CY569-1451 IONIAN SEA (July 3, 2022) Explosive Ordnance Disposal Sailors fast rope out of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to the "Dragonslayers" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11, on the flight deck of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), July 3, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Cadiz, October 15, 2014. Frigate Admiral Juan de Borbon - F-102. Otan noble Mariner 2014 exercises on the Spanish Mediterranean Coasts. Photo: Ignacio Gil.... Archdc.

220817-N-XN177-2196 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 17, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 17, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom helicopters from Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773, Marine Air Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve in support of Special Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII, land aboard the USS Mesa Verde (LPD-19) while conducting cross deck international ship landing operations off the coast of Brazil in support of UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 16, 2022. HMLA 773 serves as the Aviation Combat Element (ACE) and executes missions ranging from troop transport, parachute operations, and close air support (CAS) in this years exercise. UNITAS is the world's longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that brings together forces from 19 countries to include Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Namibia, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, South Korea, Spain, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States. The exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability among the partnering nations a

An AB212 helicopter of the Spanish Navy landing aboard the Castilla (L52).

220513-N-SI601-1116 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 13, 2022) An EC-225 Super Puma EC-225 helicopter transports personnel on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during a replenishment-at-sea. During the evolution, personnel assigned to dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE 6) transported cargo to Ronald Reagan via vertical replenishment. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 1, 2022) Aviation Machinists Mate Airman Tyler McCormick, left, from New Orleans, supervises Airman John Andrei Sarmiento, from Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., as he signals an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the Black Knights of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4, on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

220804-N-XN177-1099 PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 4, 2022) - A CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) hovers behind amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 4, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

WESTERN ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 14, 2022) Boatswains Mate 3rd Class Terrance Joiner, from Perry, GA, signals for clear take takeoff with an MH-60R Romeo attached to Navy Helicopter Squadron Spartans (HSM) 70 aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82), during UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 14, 2022. UNITAS is the worlds longest-running maritime exercise. Hosted this year by Brazil, it brings together multinational forces from Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Namibia, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, South Korea, Spain, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States conducting operations in and off the coast of Rio de Janeiro. The exercise trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations through the execution of anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air, amphibious and electronic warfare operations that enhance warfighting proficiency and increase interoperability among participating naval and marine forces.

A flight deck crew aboard the guided missile cruiser USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN guides an SH-60B Seahawk onto the ships helo deck. Lake Champlain is operating in the Persian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Base: USS Lake Champlain (CG 57)

220919-N-OK195-1001 IONIAN SEA (Sept. 19, 2022) Boatswains Mate 2nd Class David Delgado, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103), signals for chocks and chains to be applied to an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46, Sept. 19, 2022. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group 10, George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG). The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86, VFA-103, VFA-136, VFA-143, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and HSM-46. The GHWBCSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

060322-N-7981E-014. Base: USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72)

060524-N-8591H-081. Base: Usns Flint (T-AE 32) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

An MH-60S Nighthawk, attached to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, delivers ammunition during an ammunition on-load on USS Gerald R. Fords (CVN 78) flight deck, April 9, 2022. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and strike group integration as part of the ships tailored basic phase prior to operational deployment.

220707-N-CS075-1030 IONIAN SEA (July, 7, 2022) A refueling team oversees the delivery of JP-5 during an on-deck refueling with an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter, attached to the Dragonslayers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11, aboard USS Cole (DDG 67) in the Ionian Sea, July 7, 2022. Cole is part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Marines with 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and U.S. Navy H-60 helicopter crewmembers, conduct a vertical lift to transport a joint task force enabler from aboard USS Boxer to USS New Orleans, Oct. 10, 2013. Marines and sailors are forward deployed for several months in support of theater requirements of geographic combatant commanders.

A CH-46D Sea Knight helicopter drops stores on the flight deck of USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) during a vertical replenishment at sea. Base: USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75)

240118-N-PQ495-1010 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 18, 2024) Naval Special Warfare (NSW) operators take off in an MH-60S Sea Hawk, assigned to the Black Knights of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4, from the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) during a fast-rope evolution. Vinson, flagship of Carrier Strike Group ONE, is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. Naval Special Warfare is the nation's elite maritime special operations force, uniquely positioned to extend the Fleet's reach and gain and maintain access for the Joint Force in competition and conflict.

Ordnance crew members stand by as a Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 6 (HC-6) UH-46 Sea Knight helicopter transports a 500-pound bomb to the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV-67) as the vessel is made ready to deploy to the Mediterranean in support of Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Base: Naval Air Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

110424-N-YX920-126ARABIAN GULF (April 24, 2011) A CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 15 flies above the mine countermeasures ship USS Ardent (MCM 12) during Arabian Gauntlet 2011. Arabian Gauntlet is a multinational exercise designed to refine coalition warfare capabilities in mine warfare and surface warfare, and offshore infrastructure protection to enhance regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

OKINAWA, Japan (Feb. 05, 2024) Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious landing dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) attach chock and chains to a CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Air Combat Element (ACE). Green Bay, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navys largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Navy

220929-N-ZG822-1128 ADRIATIC SEA (Sept. 29 2022) A Sailor signals an MH-60S Nighthawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, delivering cargo from supply-class fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8) to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during a replenishment-at-sea, Sept. 29, 2022. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group 10, George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG). The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86, VFA-103, VFA-136, VFA-143, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, HSC-5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The GHWBCSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 24, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Dragon Whales of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28 carries ammunition from the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise's (CVN 65) during the ship's last ammunition offload before returning to homeport. Enterprise is completing its final deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. The U.S. Navy is reliable, flexible, and ready to respond worldwide on, above, and below the sea. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting.

An MH-60S Nighthawk, attached to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, transports ammunition to USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN78) during an ammunition on-load with USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12), April 9, 2022. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and strike group integration as part of the ships tailored basic phase prior to operational deployment.

A plane director signals directions to the pilot of an AH-1W Sea Cobra helicopter as it takes off from the amphibious assault ship USS GUADALCANAL (LPH-7) during the joint service exercise Ocean Venture '93. Subject Operation/Series: OCEAN VENTURE '93 State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An HH-46D Sea Knight from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 6 (HC-6) prepares to pick up a pallet from the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN-71) during an underway replenishment operation. The fleet oiler USNS KANAWHA (T-AO-196) and the amphibious assault ship USS SAIPAN (LHA-2) are in the background. The ROOSEVELT Battle Group is assisting in enforcement of the no-fly zone over Bosnia-Herzegovina during Operation Deny Flight. Subject Operation/Series: DENY FLIGHT Country: Adriatic Sea

DN-SC-89-02673. Subject Operation/Series: WEST WIND 88 Base: USS Forrestal (CV 59) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

220423-N-LZ839-1154NORFOLK, VA. (April 23, 2022) - Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), observe as an MH-60s helicopter assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26 prepares to take off the flight deck, April 23, 2022. Bataan is underway in the 2nd fleet area of operations. Bataan is homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.

An SH-2F Seasprite helicopter of Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 94 (HSL-94) is washed on the helicopter deck of the guided missile frigate USS CLARK (FFG-11). The two craft have been deployed from Naval Reserve units for use under Coast Guard command in drug-smuggling interdiction efforts. Country: Caribbean Sea

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2021) BoatswainÕs Mate 2nd Class Louis Batson, right, from Lake Crystal, Minnesota, secures BoatswainÕs Mate Seaman Evashawn Poemoceah from Lawton, Oklahoma, as she signals an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter from ÒEasyriderÓ Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 37 to land aboard Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112), July 21, 2021. Michael Murphy is underway conducting routine operations in Third Fleet.

Aboard the USS Pecos, March 2, 2006 - A CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter lands on the deck of the USS Pecos during a Visit Board Search and Seizure exercise.

Crewmen aboard the combat stores ship USS NIAGARA FALLS (AFS-3) attach several bundles to a line lowered from an SH-3H Sea King helicopter hovering over the ship's flight deck during Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Unknown

230320-N-NT811-0004 Pacific Ocean - (March 20, 2023) - Under the watchful eye of Lt.j.g. Greg Dawber acting as the helicopter control officer an SH-60R helicopter from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron Seventy-Eight (HSM 78) piloted by Lt. Trent Kurek and Lt. Dave Colville lands on the guided missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104) after completing a surveillance exercise as part of surface warfare advanced tactical training (SWATT). Sterett is underway in the Pacific Ocean. SWATT is the Navys premier advanced tactical training even for the surface fleet to ensure units are competent, proficient and ready to deploy forward. The intense multi-week training event is given under the guidance of Naval Surface and Mine Warfare Development Center (SMWDC).

110705-N-ZZ999-015ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 5, 2011) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Sea Knights of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 22 delivers cargo from the fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8), not pictured, to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) during an underway replenishment. The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group is supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

221110-N-XB010-1002 EAST CHINA SEA (Nov. 10, 2022) - Aviation Boatswains Mate, Fueling, 2nd Class Tameca McKenzie, from Montego Bay, Jamaica, directs a AH-1Z Cobra helicopter as it lands on the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) flight deck while in the South China Sea during Keen Sword 23. Keen Sword is a joint, bilateral, biennial field-training exercise involving U.S. military and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel, designed to increase combat readiness and interoperability and strengthen the ironclad Japan-U.S. alliance.

110709-N-RC734-203GULF OF ADEN (July 9, 2011) A CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter assigned to the Evil Eyes of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163, embarked aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Comstock (LSD 45), prepares to pick up supplies from the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195) during a vertical replenishment. Comstock is underway supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

220406-N-XN177-2412 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 6, 2020) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fight Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 lands on the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7) behind an MV-22 Osprey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165, April 6. VMM-165 transported distinguished visitors to Tripoli for a tour and to observe the U.S. Marine Corps Lightning carrier concept demonstration. The Lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing strike platforms when needed, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing aircraft wherever they are required.

220912-N-EH998-1033 RED SEA (Sept. 12, 2022) Sailors participate in flight operations with an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 48, aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) in the Red Sea, Sept. 12. Nitze is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

DN-ST-85-06276. Base: USS Constellation (CV 64) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

220124-N-EE352-1166 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 24, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk, assigned to the Black Knights of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4, takes off of the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Jan. 24, 2022. Dual Carrier Operations with the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group demonstrates the U.S. Navys capability to rapidly aggregate to deliver overwhelming maritime force and increase collective war-fighting readiness in support of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Leon Vonguyen)

220611-N-OK195-0094 ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 11, 2022) Boatswains Mate 3rd Class Tyrese Jones, left,signals to an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46, duringflight operationsquarters on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG103), June 11, 2022. The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is underway completing a certificationexercise to increase U.S. and allied interoperability and warfighting capability before a future deployment. The George H.W. Bush CSG is an integrated combat weapons system that delivers superior combat capability to deter,and if necessary, defeat America's adversaries in support of national security. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is theoffensive air and strike component of CSG-10 and the George H.W. Bush CSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are StrikeFighter Squadron (VFA) 143, VFA-103, VFA-86, VFA-136, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 40, CarrierAirborne Early Warning Squadron (V

A Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 6 (HC-6) CH-46D Sea Knight helicopter drops supplies on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69) during a vertical replenishment operation. Country: Unknown

A left front view of a Helicopter Light Anti-submarine Squadron 30 (HSL-30) SH-2F Sea Sprite helicopter preparing to land on the helicopter pad of the destroyer USS NICHOLSON (DD-982). Country: Unknown

ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 9, 2013) Ensign Timothy McDaniel, right, braces Boatswains Mate 2nd Class Andrew Kepner as he signals an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Dusty Dogs of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 7 to place cargo on the forecastle of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87) during a vertical replenishment. Mason is underway conducting a sustainment exercise in preparation for its upcoming deployment as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group.

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