Military Helicopter Operations

Dynamic military helicopter activities depicted, showcasing various helicopters transporting equipment and personnel over diverse skies, emphasizing teamwork and tactical maneuvers.

U.S. Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 167 perform a familiarization flight of ranges near Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Michigan, Aug. 6, 2022. HMLA-167 trained with U.S. Army National Guard and U.S. Air National Guard units during joint exercise Northern Strike 22-2. HMLA-167 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

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 the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and workups for a scheduled deployment this fall.

U.S. Marines with Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit transport a joint light tactical vehicle by air to Expeditionary Mobile Base USS Miguel Keith (ESB-5) during a Helicopter Support Team exercise in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 8, 2022. HSTs enable the setup of an expedient drop zone for heavy equipment to be picked up and transported by flight. 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.

U.S. Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 167 perform a familiarization flight of ranges near Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Michigan, Aug. 6, 2022. HMLA-167 trained with U.S. Army National Guard and U.S. Air National Guard units during joint exercise Northern Strike 22-2. HMLA-167 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 15 (HM-15) MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter tows a Mark 105 hydrofoil minesweeping sled during the joint U.S.-Canadian fleet exercise MARCOT '93. Subject Operation/Series: MARCOT '93 Country: Strait Of Juan De Fuca

120207-N-BC134-394 ARABIAN SEA (Feb. 7, 2012) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) are lifted into an SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter during search and rescue training. Bunker Hill is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security operation efforts.

220829-N-XN177-1187 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Aug. 29, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 delivers a load of supplies to amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) during a vertical replenishment with fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198), Aug. 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.

A Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 4 (HC-4) CH-53E Sea Stallion helicopter approaches the amphibious assault ship USS IWO JIMA (LPH 2). Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

220610-N-EU544-9794 EAST CHINA SEA (June 10, 2022) An MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned aerial vehicle, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, assigned to the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Jackson (LCS 6), conducts operations in the East China Sea. Jackson, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter hovers near the aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA (CV-60) as the carrier and the guided missile cruiser USS BIDDLE (CG-34), background, are underway in support of Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Red Sea

220730-A-EQ028-1018 RED SEA (July 30, 2022) An MH-60S Seahawk helicopter attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26 takes off from the expeditionary sea base USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB 3) in the Red Sea, July 30. Lewis B. Puller is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

U.S. Army Soldiers, assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, conduct a helicopter rappel exercise from an MH-60M Black Hawk at Hurlburt Field, Florida, Jan. 10, 2024. The 160th SOAR mission is to organize, equip, train, resource and employ Army special operations aviation forces worldwide in support of contingency missions and warfighting commanders.

220412-N-XN177-1016 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 12, 2022) - An AH-1Z Viper helicopter attached to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 169 lands on the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), April 12, 2022. Tripoli is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

DN-ST-89-01974. Country: Unknown

220815-N-XN177-1208 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 15, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 flies over amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) during a vertical replenishment, Aug. 15, 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 Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 17 (HS-17) SH-3H Sea King helicopter lowers its AQS-13B dipping sonar during a demonstration held as part of a dependents day cruise aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN 72). Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

050907-N-9362D-006. Base: USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71)

220917-N-NQ285-2244ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 17, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to the Vipers” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 48, takes off from the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) during flight operations, Sept. 17, 2022. Ramage is underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group conducting Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT) exercises to increase lethality, ensure combat readiness, and promote tactical innovation. SWATT is led by the Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center whose mission is to increase the tactical proficiency and lethality of the surface force.

220825-N-EV253-1154 SAN DIEGO (Aug. 25, 2022) - The crew of an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter, assigned to the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Search and Rescue Model Manager (SARMM) component of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 3, lowers a litter to US Naval Airecrewmen during a dynamic proof of concept exercise in Glorietta Bay in Coronado, Calif., Aug. 25, 2022. During the evolution, SARMM tested the practicality of using two rescue swimmers versus the traditional one, as well as alternative litter deployment and recovery method, to decrease the time required to affect a rescue, and give future flight crews increased flexibility in a variety of different personnel recovery scenarios. As the designated SARMM, the Merlins of HSC-3 ensure that SAR units are fully-qualified to perform lifesaving operations with the responsibility for promoting policy and standardization in SAR training, equipment, manuals and procedures for all rescue capable units and associated medical personnel within

A US Marine Corps (USMC) AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopter from Helicopter Marine Light Attack 773 (HMLA-773), flies over Pensacola Bay, Florida (FL). State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

California Army National Guard Task Force Medevac pilots and crew chiefs received wildfire flight training with Chief Warrant Officer Bobby Brockly and Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Gifford at Folsom Lake, Sacramento, April 2, 2015. California Guard Soldiers, aircraft and other elements are expected to play a key role in this years wildfire season.

A CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 162 (HMM-162) banks toward the amphibious assault ship USS NASSAU (LHA-4), which is anchored off the coast of North Carolina to offload its embarked Marine Corps units. The NASSAU was deployed for nearly eight months, during which time the ship and its embarked Marines were involved in Operation Sharp Edge in Liberia and Operation Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf region. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Base: Onslow Bay State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fly in a UH-1Y Huey helicopter during fast rope training aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 5, 2022. Fast roping allows for fast inserts in a contested area. 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.

U. S. Coast Guard crew and Eurocopter MH-65 performing rescue training exercises

A UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from the 571st medical company, Fort Carson, Colorado, performs a fly by near Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia. Members of the 571st medical company are a part of the coalition forces of the 363rd Air Expeditionary Wing, Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, that enforces the no-fly and no-drive zone in Southern Iraq to protect and defend against Iraqi aggression in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Base: Prince Sultan Air Base Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

Artemis II Orion Underway Recovery Test 10 (URT-10) - Day 5. NASA, Navy, and Air Force personnel practice Artemis recovery procedures in the Pacific Ocean as part of Underway Recovery Test 10 (URT-10) off the coast of San Diego. In this photo, Naval helicopter pilots from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 Wildcards lift a pilot in a basket from an inflatable front porch that allows astronauts to be recovered out of the Orion spacecraft. Navy divers from Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Expeditionary Support Unit 1 are the first to reach the spacecraft after splashdown and will assist the astronauts in getting inside the helicopter baskets prior to be flown back to the recovery ship.

SH-60 SeahawkUS Navy

The Maryland Army National Guard and the Maryland Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team conducts swift water rescue training with the Baltimore County Fire Department on Oct. 8, 2015, at Mt. Vista Park in Kingsville Md. The HART training is performed quarterly, and prepares responders for emergency situations such as hurricanes and floods.

EAST CHINA SEA (May 30, 2022) An SA-330J Puma helicopter prepares to lower cargo to the flight deck of Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) while conducting a vertical replenishment with Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE-06). Dewey is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navys largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th fleets principal surface force.

970505-M-8731B-013. Complete Scene Caption: Corporal Howe, from 6th platoon, Alpha Company, 2d Recon Battalion detachment, is repelling from a UH-1 "Huey" while at the Sandhill training area, during COMBINED ARMS Exercise (CAX) 6-97. The Marines are practicing their repelling technique, used for fast insertion into a hostile environment. CAX 5/6-97 is a MAGTF (Marine Air Ground Task Force) exercise being conducted at MCAGCC (Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center), 29 Palms, California. The command element for this exercise is MAGTF-6, which is built around the 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Many commands from the II MEF (Marine Expeditionary Force) have sent units to this desert warfare exercise, to fill key billets in the Ground Combat Element (GCE), Air Combat Element (ACE) and the Combat Service Support Element (CSSE). Subject Operation/Series: CAX 6-97 Base: Mcagcc, Twentynine Palms State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (

Exercise of the search and rescue (SAR), Leeuwarden airbase. A crashed kite dobbert in a dinghy in the Wadden Sea after he managed to settle in safety with a parachute. The SAR helicopter is on site to save the unfortunate kite.

An SH-60B Seahawk helicopter of Light Helicopter Squadron 38 (HSL-38) embarked aboard the Spruance class destroyer USS CONOLLY (DD-979), approaches the helo flight deck of the destroyer for a landing at sunset. The ship and air detachment are part of Operation Support Democracy off the coast of Haiti. Subject Operation/Series: SUPPORT DEMOCRACY Country: Caribbean Sea

220711-N-UF592-1116 BASILAN STRAIT (July 11, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk, attached to the Saberhawks of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77, prepares to land on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during a transit through the Basilan Strait. 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.

A USMC Marine CH-46 (Sea Knight) helicopter from Marine Helicopter Squadron Medium (HMM 262) hovers above the USS Essexs (LHD 2), flight deck while Marines from Battalion Landing Team (BLT) practice fast roping. The Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit spent two months participating in various training operations on and off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, Sasebo, Japan, Pohang, Korea, and Hong Kong, China. Base: USS Essex (LHD 2) State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN)

A flight deck crewman signals to an HB-350B Esquilo (Brazilian navy version of the French Ecureuil) helicopter on the deck of the Brazilian aircraft carrier MINAS GERAIS (A-11) during the hemispheric naval exercise Unitas XXV. The silver anniversary exercise involves Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, the United States, Uruguay and Venezuela. Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS XXV Country: Unknown

DN-SC-89-05991. Base: San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 28, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14, right, and an AS332 Super Puma transport cargo to the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during a vertical replenishment-at-sea with the Military Sea Lift Command Dry Cargo and Ammunition Ship USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14). 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.

Two CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopters attached to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 261 (HMM-261) fly over an LCM-8 mechanized landing craft during Operation Sharp Edge. Marines of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU) are being sent to the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia, to augment security and evacuate U.S. and foreign nationals from the fighting between government and rebel forces. Subject Operation/Series: SHARP EDGE Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

SOUTH CHINA SEA (May 18, 2013) Two MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopters assigned to the Wolf Pack of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 75 launch AGM-114 Hellfire missiles during a live fire exercise. HSM 75 is part of Carrier Air Wing 11, deployed with the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.

An SH-3 Sea King helicopter assigned to the Southern Most Search and Rescue (SAR) unit at Naval Air Station Key West hoists a simulated victim swimmer during training operations. Base: Gulf Of Mexico State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An AH-1 Viper with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) flies overhead during Marine Littoral Regiment Training Exercise (MLR-TE) at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Feb. 6, 2023. MLR-TE is a large-scale, service-level exercise designed to train, develop, and experiment with the 3d MLR as part of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force, led by 3d Marine Division, operating as a Stand-in Force across a contested and distributed maritime environment.

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 12th Marines conduct an airlift of a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle at a helicopter external lift drill on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, July 18, 2022. 3/12 regularly conducts airlift training to improve rapid insertion and extraction of equipment, producing lethal, ready, and adaptable forces capable of operations across a wide range of missions.

000511-F-5009P-017. Subject Operation/Series: COBRA GOLD 2000 Base: Thung Song Country: Thailand (THA)

A 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne) soldier jumps out of a CH-47 Chinook assigned to 2nd Squadron, 107th Cavalry Regiment, Ohio National Guard, into the water of Lake Margrethe at Camp Grayling, Michigan, during a helocast exercise for soldiers supporting the unit through Northern Strike 22, August 11, 2022. A helocast is an insertion method used by special operations forces in which a helicopter will fly over a body of water to drop off a boat and soldiers who will jump out, swim to the boat, and move to their on-shore target.

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 5, 2022) A Sailor assigned to the Royal Canadian Navy Halifax-class frigate HMCS Winnipeg (FFH 338) prepares to be lowered from a Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone helicopter on to the flight deck aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) while conducting multi-lateral operations in the South China Sea, Oct. 5. The United States, with Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Royal Canadian Navy are participating in multi-lateral exercises in the South China Sea in support of the Royal Australian Navys regional presence deployment. Exercises like this reassure our allies and partners of our combined commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A CH-53E Super Stallion Roars Overhead After Launching

220527-N-DO281-2080ATLANTIC OCEAN (May 27, 2022) An MH-60R helicopter, assigned to the "Griffins" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 79, conducts a vertical replenishment aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117), May 27, 2022. Paul Ignatius 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 interest.

ARABIAN GULF (Aug. 24, 2016) Sailors assigned to the Dusty Dogs of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7 participate in a search and rescue exercise. HSC-7 is embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). The carrier and its carrier strike group are deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

An Army UH-1 Iroquois helicopter, with acting patients aboard, arrives in air transportable hospital during Exercise Wounded Eagle '82. Other participants (foreground) are standing by. Subject Operation/Series: WOUNDED EAGLE '82 Base: Fort Irwin State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DN-SC-85-11118. Base: USS Kilauea (AE 26) Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

221130-N-EV253-1592 SAN DIEGO (Nov. 30, 2022) - U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the Merlins of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 3, and U.S. Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 39, work alongside one another during a hoisting evolution involving two UH-1Y Venom light attack helicopters, assigned to the Vipers of Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 169 and the Gunfighters of HMLA-369 during a training event in Glorietta Bay off the coast of Coronado, Calif., Nov. 30. During the evolution, which was overseen by the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Search and Rescue Model Manager (SARMM) component of HSC-3, SARMM provided training on hoisting operations and other personnel recovery techniques to their USMC counterparts. The evolution was a part of Exercise Steel Knight 2023 (SK-22), a 1st Marine Division-led annual training exercise which enables the Navy-Marine Corps team to operate in a realistic, combined forces-arms environment and enhances naval warfighting, tactics, techniques an

A U.S. Marine Sea Knight Chinook helicopter lands on shore at Jongsa-dong beach in Republic of Korea, Oct. 31, 1998. The helicopter is landing on the beach to drop off U.S. Marine troops in support of Foal Eagle '98. Foal Eagle '98 is a deployment exercise that takes place once a year in Korea. (U.S. Army photo by SPECIALIST Joel C. Miller) (Released). Subject Operation/Series: FOAL EAGLE '98KOREA CD Base: Jongsa-Dong Beach Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR) Scene Major Command Shown: E Company, 2 Bat. 8th Marine

DF-ST-88-05291. Subject Operation/Series: CALFEX Base: Fort Greely State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 369 fly in formation during a training exercise off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, April 29, 2022. HMLA-369 successfully launched multiple aircraft for a single flight as a display of appreciation for the hard work of the squadron.

A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366 (HMH-366), 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, hovers over water during a helocast water insertion training on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 26, 2022. Helocasting is an airborne technique used by small unit special operations forces to insert into hard-to-reach areas via bodies of water. This high-risk training prepares the MSPF for the upcoming 26th MEU deployment.

A SH-3 Sea King helicopter lands on the flight deck of the Spruance class destroyer USS INGERSOLL (DD-990) while the ship is underway. The landing is taking place during at-sea landing qualifications for Reserve Helicoper Anti-submarine Squadron 84 (HS-84). Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

An SH-60F Seahawk helicopter from the Naval Air Test Center, Patuxent River prepares to land aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72). Aircraft from the center are on the LINCOLN to test the vessel's flight deck capabilities. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

DA-ST-87-08586. Subject Operation/Series: BRIM FROST Base: Kodiak State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

GULF OF ADEN (June 9, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to the Sea Knights” of Helicopter Sea Combat squadron (HSC 22) and Sailors assigned to littoral combat ship USS Sioux City (LCS 11) conduct search and rescue training in the Gulf of Aden, June 9. Sioux City is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

120708-N-HU253-070 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 8, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Island Knights of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25 approaches the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE 6) at sunrise after delivering pallets of supplies to the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) during a vertical replenishment. George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka on May 26 to begin its 2012 patrol. George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka on May 26 to begin its 2012 patrol. George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region.

U.S. Navy Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) team members rappel from a UH-1 Iroquois helicopter during tactical warfare training. Country: Unknown

DN-ST-88-00112. Country: Unknown

220419-N-EV253-2025 SAN DIEGO (April 19, 2022) - A U.S. Naval Aircrewman, assigned to the Wildcards” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, releases a rescue basket carrying a U.S. Marine, assigned the 1st Marine Division, who was hoisted to an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter during a personnel recovery event off the coast of Camp Pendleton, California, April 19, 2022. During the evolution, which was overseen by HSC-3, the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Search and Rescue Model Manager (SARMM), HSC-23 participated in a dynamic proof-of-concept event in which two MH-60S helicopters conducted search and rescue operations to recover large troop compliments with established tactics, techniques and procedures. As the designated SARMM, the Merlins” of HSC-3 ensures that SAR units are fully-qualified to perform lifesaving operations with the responsibility for promoting policy and standardization in SAR training, equipment, manuals and procedures for all rescue capable units and associated

Rear view of a US Marine CH-46 helicopter as it hovers about fifty feet off the ground. The helicopter inserts a Marine reconnaissance, by fast rope, behind enemy lines to secure the beach head, during rehearsals for Kernel Blitz '99. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ '99 Base: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A U.S. Marine Corps scout sniper with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, provides overwatch from a U.S. Navy SH-60 Sea Hawk, with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23 Wildcards, Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7) in support of a visit board search and seizure exercise aboard Expeditionary Mobile Base USS Miguel Keith (ESB-5) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 17, 2022. The 31st MEU maintains the capability to seize and clear ships while at sea to protect themselves and allies in the Indo-Pacific Region. 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 INDOPACOM region.

INDIAN OCEAN (March 27, 2018) Sailors assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 1, rappel from an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Indians of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 6 to the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). Theodore Roosevelt is underway for a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.

DF-ST-86-08073. Base: Alexandria Country: Egypt (EGY)

Silhouette of army soldiers hanging on a rope to a helicopter, SH-60 Seahawk, USS George Washington (CVN 73), US Navy

A silhouette of an US Army CH-47D Chinook helicopter in the sunset. The Army helicopter, from E Company, 502nd Aviation Regiment, Aviano, Italy, is practicing landings and take-offs from the deck of an amphibious assault ship as it operates off the coast of Italy. Country: Italy (ITA)

U.S. Navy Lt. Jack Pollock, an air boss, instructs a U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook assigned to 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, to land aboard the USS Miguel Keith (ESB-5) off the coast of the Philippines during Balikatan 22, March 31, 2022. The Miguel Keith, a Lewis B. Puller-class Expeditionary Mobile Base Ship, is a highly flexible platform that provides logistics movement from sea to shore supporting a broad range of military operations. Balikatan, Tagalog for shoulder-to-shoulder,’ is a longstanding bilateral exercise between the Philippines and the United States highlighting the deep-rooted partnership between both countries. Balikatan 22 is the 37th and largest-ever iteration of the exercise. BK22 coincides with the 75th anniversary of the U.S.-Philippine security cooperation and a shared commitment to advancing peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Flight deck crewmen give hand signals as a Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 11 (HC-11) HH-46A Sea Knight helicopter prepares to lift supplies from the stern of the fast combat support ship USS SACRAMENTO (AOE-1) during a vertical replenishment of the battleship USS NEW JERSEY (BB-62). Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

AQABA, Jordan (May 11, 2015) Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians assigned to Commander, Task Group (CTG) 56.1 take part in helicopter training in Aqaba, Jordan, during Exercise Eager Lion 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations, and enhance regional security and stability.

DF-ST-85-12006. Subject Operation/Series: FUERZAS UNIDAS Country: Ecuador (ECU)

A CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter lifts a Cuban (Czechoslovakian-made) M-53 quad 12.7 mm anti-aircraft machine gun seized at Point Salines airfield. The gun is being removed from the airfield during the multi-service, multinational Operation URGENT FURY. Subject Operation/Series: URGENT FURY Country: Grenada (GRD)

United States Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Force Reconnaissance Detachment. Jump from a CH-46E Sea Knight Helicopter, 264th Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron. The Force Reconnaissance Detachment practiced helicopter casting and recovery to sustain vital skills during a deployment. Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

A U.S. Special Operations Forces member jumps from a U.S. Army MH-60 helicopter during a SOF capabilities demonstration May 18, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. SOF Week is the premier gathering for the SOF community and industry, bringing together more than 11,000 attendees, including representatives from more than 100 countries to collaborate on new initiatives and capabilities needed for SOF professionals to compete and win in the future.

The Sikorsky HSS-1N (SH-34J, UH-34J) Subdue boat control helicopter 142 (1960-1972) During a wound transport.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Near the NASA Causeway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, part of the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing puts on a rescue demonstration during the World Space Expo aerial salute. This unit was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 18, 2022) An MH-60R Seahawk attached to the Warlords of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51 lands on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105). Dewey is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navys largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th fleets principal surface force.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In a training exercise, known as Mode VIII, off Florida's central east coast, an HH-60G helicopter executes a rescue maneuver of a participant. In support of, and with logistical support from, NASA, USSTRATCOM is hosting a major exercise involving Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, search and rescue (SAR) forces, including the 45th Space Wing at Patrick Air Force Base, which support space shuttle astronaut bailout contingency operations, known as Mode VIII. This exercise tests SAR capabilities to locate, recover and provide medical treatment for astronauts following a space shuttle launch phase open-ocean bailout. Participants include members of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Air Force, and NASA's Kennedy Space Center and Johnson Space Center.

A member of the 82nd Airborne Division rappels from an Egyptian (British built) Westland Commando helicopter during Bright Star '82, an exercise involving troops from the U.S., Egypt, Sudan, Somalia and Oman. Subject Operation/Series: BRIGHT STAR '82 Base: Cairo West Air Base State: Al Qahirah Country: Egypt (EGY)

ENGLISH CHANNEL (Oct. 10, 2022) Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class David Phelps signals to the pilots in an MH-60R Seahawk helicopter, attached to the Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 79, on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), Oct. 10, 2022. Exercise Joint Warrior 22-2 is a U.K.-hosted, multilateral training exercise designed to provide NATO and allied forces with a unique multi-warfare environment to prepare for global operations. Roosevelt 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.

011115-F-4884R-003. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM 2001 Country: Unknown

U.S. Army Soldiers with 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Alabama Army National Guard (ARNG), and 2nd Squadron, 107th Cavalry Regiment, Ohio ARNG, conduct helocast operations from a CH-47 Chinook, 111th General Support Aviation Battalion, Florida ARNG, into Lake Margrethe during Northern Strike 22-2, at Camp Grayling, Mich., Aug. 11, 2022. Units visiting Northern Strike regularly use Lake Margrethe to conduct littoral operations

DN-ST-90-00500. Base: USS Belleau Wood (LHA 3) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

220813-N-XN177-2152 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 13, 2022) - An MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) flies over 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.

A Polish PZL Swidnik W-3 Sokol helicopter hoists a swimmer out of the water while conducting a search and rescue demonstration during exercise BALTOPS '93. The guided missile frigate USS DOYLE (DDG-39) is in the background. For the first time in the 22-year history of BALTOPS, the Eastern European countries of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Russia were invited to participate in the non-military phases of the exercise. Subject Operation/Series: BALTOPS '93 Country: Baltic Sea

A Royal New Zealand Air Force UH-1H helicopter performing sling load operations, New Zealand.

An HC-130J Combat King II conducts an aerial refueling mission during exercise Angel Thunder 2013, April 11, 2013, near Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. The HC-130J is assigned to the 79th Rescue Squadron at Davis-Monthan AFB.

DN-SC-04-09611. Base: San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A HM-53E from the Heavy Marine Helicopter Squadron 361 (HMH-361), lifts an M198 Howitzer into a landing zone, at the Central Training Area (CTA). State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN)

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 29, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21, conducts flight operations with U.S. Navy Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, July 29, during an amphibious raid. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three 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.

060425-N-7232R-203. Base: USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74)

Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct insertion exercises from a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter into a combat rubber raiding craft. The 11th MEU is embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island, deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

120209-N-DR144-286 ARABIAN SEA (Feb. 9, 2012) MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HSC) 23 deliver supplies to the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) as the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) arrives alongside. Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

Special Boat Teams Navigate Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boats

A U.S. Soldier with 12th Aviation Battalion, prepares to fly a UH-60 aircraft during a mission readiness exercise at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Jan. 10, 2023. U.S. Marines with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force worked in tangent with the soldiers of 12th Aviation Battalion in order to practice realistic training to improve, sustain, and develop standards of procedures safely.

U.S. Air Force Special Tactics operators assigned to the 24th Special Operations Wing, Hurlburt Field, Florida, exfiltrate from a location in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during exercise Emerald Warrior 22.1 in Fort Knox, Kentucky, May 11, 2022. Emerald Warrior is the largest joint special operations exercise involving U.S. Special Operations Command forces training for response to various threats above and below the threshold of armed conflict.

U.S. Air Force survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialists assigned to the 353rd Special Training Squadron and U.S. Navy naval air crewmen assigned to the Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 conduct simulated survivor training during Cope North 24 off the coast of Guam Feb. 20, 2024. Participants exercise interoperability during Cope North 24 through agile, integrated generation of airpower from dispersed locations across the Indo-Pacific, demonstrating Allied airpower resilience and survivability in a contested environment. Air Force

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