Military Helicopter Operations

Scenes of military helicopters taking off and landing on naval vessels, highlighting their role in maritime missions and supply transport.

Two aviation ordnance men connecting a transport cable to a military helicopter on the deck of a aircraft carrier, USS Kitty Hawk, December 6, 2006

The guided missile cruiser USS VALLEY FORGE (CG-50) approaches the stern of the replenishment oiler USS KANSAS CITY (AOR-3) as a Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 11 (HC-11) HH-46D Sea Knight helicopter assigned to the KANSAS CITY carries a load of supplies over to the aircraft carrier USS RANGER (CV-61). The RANGER and its battle group are on station in the Persian Gulf region following Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Unknown

A 301st Rescue Squadron HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter preforms air-to-air refuel with an HC-130J Combat King aircraft during exercise Distant Horizon off the coast of Hawaii, Aug. 5, 2022.Distant Horizon is an exercise designed to validate tactics, techniques, and procedures of personnel recovery and agile combat employment in the Indo-Pacific region.

PACIFIC OCEAN (April 18, 2013) Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) attach ordnance to an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 during a weapons transfer. The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group is returning from an eight-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility.

050106-N-0057P-034. Base: USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Scene Major Command Shown: SH-60B on CVN-72

DN-SC-89-06160. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

220922-N-LK647-0065 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 22, 2022) Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class Richie Zapata washes saltwater off of an MH-60R Seahawk helicopter, assigned to the Spartans of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 70 (HSM-70), aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) following the ships completion of Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT). Normandy is underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group conducting 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.

220616-N-DW158-1030 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 16, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk attached to the Saberhawks of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77, launches from the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), during Valiant Shield 2022 (VS22). VS22 is a U.S.-only, biennial field training exercise (FTX) focused on integration of joint training in a multi-domain environment. This training builds real-world proficiency in sustaining world forces through detecting, locating, tracking and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land and in cyberspace in response to a range of mission areas.

220804-N-GF955-1262ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 4, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117) conduct helicopter in-flight refueling (HIFR) on a MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 79, Detachment 2, Aug. 4, 2022. Paul Ignatius, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, 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.

Sasebo, Japan, January 26, 2012 - Aviation boatswain's mates prepare to chock and chain an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter to the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex.

DN-ST-89-02991. Base: USS Conserver (ARS 39)

230126-N-NH267-1103 PACIFIC OCEAN (Jan. 26, 2023) U.S. Navy Hull Maintenance Technician 3rd Class Jerry Race, from Muskegon, Mich., observes an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the "Island Knights" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25 on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60). Paul Hamilton, part of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, is underway conducting routine operations.

220603-N-BR419-1604 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 3, 2022) Members of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5, attached to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, deployed aboard the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), conduct a maritime interdiction exercise with Republic of Korea special forces aboard ROKS Marado (LPH 6112) during Carrier Strike Group Exercise 2022. Carrier Strike Group Exercise is a bilateral exercise between the U.S. Navy and Republic of Korea Navy. This exercise allows our navies to refine operations and engagement to strengthen future cooperation while supporting the alliance that remains vital to the security interests of both nations and to stability in Northeast Asia.

221207-N-TT059-1900 PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 7, 2022) Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Jeffrey Brooks signals an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 during flight operations aboard Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Montgomery (LCS 8), Dec. 7, 2022. Montgomery, along with San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS Portland (LPD 27), is underway off the coast of Southern California in U.S. 3rd Fleet in support of the NASA Artemis I Orion spacecraft recovery. The retrieval operation is part of a Department of Defense effort that integrates combatant command and service capabilities to determine best practices for safely retrieving spacecraft capable of carrying humans into space. Montgomery, homeported in San Diego, has flexible surface warfare capabilities that make it an ideal partner to support NASA, including its 11-meter rigid-hull inflatable boat and large mission bay.

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 12, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 embarked aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) conducts a vertical replenishment with the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10). The John C. Stennis Carrier strike Group is deployed to the U.S. 7th FleetThe U.S. Navy is constantly deployed to preserve peace, protect commerce, and deter aggression through forward presence. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting.

050105-N-4166B-096. Base: USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Country: Indian Ocean (IOC) Scene Major Command Shown: HH-60H helo of HS-2

NASAs SpaceX Crew-4 Splashdown. NASA astronaut Robert Hines is helped aboard a helicopter on the SpaceX recovery ship Megan to fly to Jacksonville, Florida, with NASA astronauts Kjell Lindgren and Jessica Watkins, along with ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, after the four landed in their SpaceX Crew Dragon Freedom spacecraft in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Jacksonville, Friday, Oct. 14, 2022. Lindgren, Hines, Watkins, and Cristoforetti are returning after 170 days in space as part of Expeditions 67 and 68 aboard the International Space Station.

Coast Guard Cutter Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast (WMEC 623) flight deck crew members practice removing the primary tie downs from a MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Air Station Humboldt Bay as part of their qualification process while Steadfast patrolled the Pacific Ocean, Aug. 16, 2022. Steadfast returned to their Astoria homeport Oct. 3, 2022, following a 55-day counter narcotics patrol. U.S. Coast Guard photo.

220614-N-YS933-1205 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 14, 2022) A Sailor from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron "Indians" (HSC) 6, watches helicopter operations on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 12, 2020) U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 and Sailors aboard the expeditionary sea base USS Hershel Woody” Williams (ESB 4) conduct flight operations with MV-22B Ospreys and MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter in the Atlantic Ocean, Sept. 12, 2020. Hershel "Woody" Williams is on its inaugural deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa area of responsibility in support of maritime missions and special operations.

A Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 6 (HC-6) UH-46 Sea Knight helicopter transfers supplies between the ammunition ship USS SURIBACHI (AE-21) and the the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72) during vertical replenishment operations between the two ships. The LINCOLN and SURIBACHI are underway off the Virginia Capes. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

221013-N-SN516-1003 PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 13, 2022) U.S. Navy Sailors prepare to secure an MH-60R helicopter from the "Battle Cats" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 73 during flight quarters aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Decatur (DDG 73). Decatur is currently operating with Nimitz Carrier Strike Group in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

An MH-60S Seahawk Helicopter attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC-5) prepares for takeoff on Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) in the Atlantic Ocean Feb. 13, 2024. George Washington is underway in support of future operations. Navy

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, flies toward the landing deck of the United States Naval Ship Sacagawea at Kushiro Port, Japan, Oct 13, 2022. The U.S.N.S Sacagawea serves as the command operating center for Combat Logistics Regiment 37, and provides logistical support to various units participating in Resolute Dragon. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

220713-N-VI910-1068 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 13, 2022) U.S. Navy Capt. Patrick Baker, executive officer, Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), salutes leaders from the Republic of Korea, Peruvian Navy and Royal Air Force on the flight deck of 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.

A member of the boarding team for Broadsword Class Frigate, HMS COVENTRY (F 98), fast ropes from a Royal Navy Lynx HMA-8 helicopter to the deck during boarding exercises in the Persian Gulf. The British vessel in is the gulf in support of the Southwest Asia build-up. Base: Hms Conventry (F 98)

050910-N-5345W-128. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT TASK FORCE (JTF) KATRINA Base: USS Tortuga (LSD 46) State: Louisiana (LA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220617-N-UP745-3020 ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 17, 2022) Aviation Machinist Mate 2nd Class Leighlony Fain, from Dallas, assigned to the Vipers” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 48, washes an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) in the Atlantic Ocean, June 17, 2022. Jason Dunham is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interest.

BALABAC STRAIT (Jan. 29, 2022) A U.S. Sailor assigned to amphibious transport dock USS Portland (LPD 27) guides personnel across the flight deck during routine flight operations, Jan. 29. Portland, part of the USS Essex Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with alliances and partners and serve as a ready response force to ensure maritime security and a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Patrick Katz)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 20, 2022) U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) Airman Christian Mason, assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), directs a U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper helicopter attached to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Sept. 20, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, 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.

220905-N-XN177-1455 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 5, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 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.

OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA , FLORIDA (2 September 2019) -- Florida National Guard Soldiers and Airmen, from the CBRN Enhanced Response Force Package (CERFP), load equipment and prepare for potential missions responding to Hurricane Dorian.

Crew members aboard the battleship USS NEW JERSEY (BB-62) hold a fuel hose as a Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 11 (HC-11) CH-46D Sea Knight helicopter is refueled while hovering near the stern of the ship. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

INDIAN OCEAN (Jan. 7, 2022) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Maria Chavez, from San Francisco, Calif., signals to an MH-60S Sea Hawk, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21, aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Jan. 7. Essex, flagship of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), along with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with alliances and partners and serve as a ready response force to ensure maritime security and a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A Westland Lynx MK.27 (SH-14B) helicopter (1979-) gets the flight deck of a frigate instructions from the VDO.

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

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

220922-N-XN177-1454 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 22, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 recovers naval air crewman during a search and rescue (SAR) swimmer training evolution Sept. 22, 2022. HSC-23 is embarked aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7). 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-87-11868. Base: USS Belleau Wood (LHA 3)

An MH-60S Nighthawk, attached to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, prepares to transport 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 U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), flies to its destination, the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), during exercise Steel Knight 23, Dec. 5, 2022. Exercise Steel Knight provides 3rd MAW an opportunity to refine Wing-level warfighting in support of I Marine Expeditionary Forceand fleet maneuver.

220715-N-JO829-1093PACIFIC OCEAN (July 15, 2022) Sailors assigned to French Navy frigate FS Prairial (F731), fast rope from a French Alouette III helicopter on to the flight deck of Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) for a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) 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 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.

221008-N-ZQ263-1029 PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 8, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, from the Battlecats of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 73, approaches the flight deck aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93). Chung-Hoon is currently operating with Nimitz Carrier Strike Group in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Jan. 29, 2013) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 picks up cargo from the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10) during a vertical replenishment.

220817-N-XN177-2212 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 17, 2022) - U.S. Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) disembark a CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) onto 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.

DN-ST-89-06361. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

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

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 4, 2012) A MH-60S Sea Hawk assigned to the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 performs a vertical replenishment.

Flight deck personnel carry stretchers to a waiting SH-3 Sea King helicopter during flight operations aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69). The SH-3 is assigned to Helicopter Squadron 6 (HS-6). Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69)

An AH-64 from the 25th Infantry Division (ID) takes off after being refueled during the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) at Barking Sands, Kauai, Hi., Nov. 1, 2022. JPMRC allows the rehearsal of strategic movement and maneuver, integration with allies and partners and demonstrates the unique contributions by the 25th ID to the joint force.

Seaman Joshua Whitaker, right, and Boatswains Mate Seaman Kesean Blair, both assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) prepare to chock and chain an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to the Tridents of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, during flight operations as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, Oct. 25, 2022. The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is on its inaugural deployment conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict free Atlantic region.

1-2” a CH-46E Sea Knight flown by Lt. Col. Todd J. Oneto (One-to), commanding officer of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 (Reinforced), lands on the flight deck of USS Peleliu. Oneto has been flying with CH-46E’s for over 16 years and has been the commanding officer for HMM-165 (REIN) since Jan. 17, 2009.

Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class Connor Breslow, a native of La Puente, California, returns from chock and chaining an MH-60S Seahawk, assigned to the Wildcards of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Somerset (LPD 25) while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Jan. 10, 2024. The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of USS Boxer (LHD 4), Somerset, and USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49), and the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit are underway conducting integrated training and routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

A Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 4 (HS-4) SH-3H Sea King helicopter lands on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70). Country: North Pacific Ocean

ATLANTIC OCEAN (March 7, 2021) F-35 test pilots U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brad Leeman, BF-05, and British Royal Navy Lt. Cmdr. Barry Pilkington, BF-19, perform night lighting evaluation flights in F-35B short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variants of the aircraft aboard the Italian navy aircraft carrier ITS Cavour (CVH 550). The Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 pilots are embarked with the F-35 Patuxent River Integrated Test Force (ITF) for sea trials on the Italian navy flagship. Cavour is in phase one of its Ready for Operations” campaign to certify its use of the fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

030815-M-7837W-049. Base: Ali Al Salem Air Base Country: Kuwait (KWT) Scene Major Command Shown: HMLA-169

SOUTH CHINA SEA (March 31, 2022) Sailors signal an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14, on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier 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.

220713-N-VI910-1071 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 13, 2022) Side boys render honors to leaders from the Republic of Korea, Peruvian Navy, and Royal Air Force on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) 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.

220713-N-XH769-2059 ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 13, 2022) U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Jordan Larson directs an MH-60S helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, during flight operations aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) July 13, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, 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.

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 27, 2016) Boatswains Mate Seaman Precious Aumua acts as a safety as Boatswains Mate Seaman Chasity Culton extends a hook toward a SA-33J Puma helicopter on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) during a vertical replenishment with the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9). Curtis Wilbur is on patrol with Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5 in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific.

221109-N-IL330-1051 TASMAN SEA (Nov. 9, 2022) - Airman Angelique Shipley, from New York, chocks and chains 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) Nov. 9, 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.

Helicopters assigned to 16th Combat Aviation Brigade prepare to be folded into shipping configuration at the Port of Tacoma, Washington, on May 11, 2022. The aircraft were being shipped to Indonesia to participate in Exercise Super Garuda Shield 22.

A U.S. Marine with Maritime Special Purpose Force, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit jumps from a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366 (HMH-366), 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, 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.

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

While participating in a vertical replenishment (VERTREP) between USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and USNS Concord (T-AFS 5), a SA-330 Puma helicopter releases stores onto the flight deck of the carrier. TRUMAN is on station in the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH. SOUTHERN WATCH establishes a southern no fly zone over Iraq and extends to the borders to just south of Baghdad, capital city of Iraq. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Base: USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75)

190823-N-IA905-1017SANTA MARTA, Colombia (Aug. 23, 2019) A Colombian army helicopter flies alongside the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) off the coast of Santa Marta, Colombia during a formation flight with the Dragon Whales of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, Aug. 23, 2019. Comfort is working with health and government partners in Central America, South America and the Caribbean to provide care on the ship and at land-based medical sites, helping to relieve pressure on national medical systems strained by an increase in Venezuelan migrants.

ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 18, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk from the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 picks up stores from the flight deck of the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10) during a replenishment-at-sea.

A flight deck crewman aboard the light aircraft carrier HMS INVINCIBLE (R-05) signals to the pilot of a hovering HAS. Mark 2 Lynx helicopter during Fleet Ex 1-90. Subject Operation/Series: FLEET EX 1-90 Country: Caribbean Sea

DN-SC-88-01982. Base: Mytle Beach State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220903-N-GF955-1082BALTIC SEA (Sept. 3, 2022) A Royal Netherlands Navy NH-90 NATO frigate helicopter (N-195) lands on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117), Sept. 3, 2022. Paul Ignatius is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, 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.

Operation UNITED SHIELD. A US Navy CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter lifts a load of supplies from the flight deck of the ammunition ship USS KISKA (AE 35) off the coast of Kenya. The KISKA is bringing in materiel and equipment to support the operation which is the withdrawal of United Nations' peacekeepers from Mogadishu, Somalia. The helicopter will ferry the supplies and materiel between the KISKA, other ships and the operations ashore. Subject Operation/Series: UNITED SHIELD Base: USS Kiska (AE 35) Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

A MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the Wildcards of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, departs the USS Boxer (LHD 4) flight deck as the ship steams in the Pacific Ocean, Jan. 9, 2024. The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of Boxer, USS Somerset (LPD 25), and USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49), and the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit are underway conducting integrated training and routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

Reservists from the 445th Operation Groups 89th Airlift Squadron, 445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron and 445th Operations Support Squadron participated in water survival training Jan. 19, 2023 at North Island Naval Air Station, San Diego, California. The training event was a joint effort between the 445th Airlift Wing and the Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC)-3, HSC-8, HSC-23 and Coast Guard Sector San Diego. Over 150 Reservists from the 445th Airlift Wing, to include 445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, 445th Aerospace Medicine Squadron, 445th Operations Support Squadron, 445th Maintenance Group, 445th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 445th Maintenance Squadron, 87th Aerial Port Squadron and 89th Airlift Wing provided support or participated in the training event that included water survival, AES training flights and urban survival, evasion, resistance and escape.

An CH-53 helicopter comes in to land on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS FORRESTAL (CV-59) during the allied forces exercise Team Work '88. Subject Operation/Series: TEAM WORK '88 Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

A Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew lands on the deck of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB 20) during flight operations in Kotzebue Sound, Sept. 7, 2022. These training opportunities strengthen maneuvering and communication interoperability between the two units, and maintain crew qualifications

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 13, 2022) Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Dsondria Arocho, from Minneola, Fla., directs an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to the Raptors” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Alexandra Shaw, an MV-22B Osprey crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365, adjusts gear during Exercise Raven (RavenEx) 22-5 at Combat Readiness Training Center, Gulfport, Mississippi, May 12, 2022. VMM-365 provided assault support for Marine Forces Special Operations Command during a predeployment training exercise to enhance combat readiness in an unfamiliar expeditionary environment. VMM-365 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Richard Johnson III, a UH-1Y pilot with Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369, poses for a photo in front of his aircraft aboard the USS Harpers Ferry during San Francisco Fleet Week (SFFW), October 9, 2022. SFFW is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard service members, and experience Americas sea services, and for service members to participate in various community service events, and showcase their capabilities and equipment.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 25, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Dragon Whales of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28 picks up ammunition from the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) during the carrier's last ammunition offload. 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.

DF-ST-88-09685. Base: Unknown

120508-N-GL340-164 PEARL HARBOR (May 08, 2012) Service members, civilians and foreign military personnel man the rails aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) as it leaves Pearl Harbor in support of Pacific Partnership 2012 (PP12). PP12 is the seventh in a series of U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian and civic assistance missions aimed at strengthening regional relationships with host and partner nations, as well as providing natural disaster response training, in Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific.

A CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 774 assesses the aftermath of Hurricane Tomas off the southern claw of Haiti, Nov. 6, 2010, in preparation for tentative disaster relief efforts to the region in support of the government of Haiti, MINUSTAH and USAID. Marines and sailors embarked aboard USS Iwo Jima attached to Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force concluded humanitarian operations in Paramaribo, Suriname, Nov. 1, 2010, for Haiti relief efforts.

304th Rescue Squadron pararescuemen ascend a rope ladder connected to a 305th RQS HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter during a combat search and rescue training scenario in the Columbia River Gorge, near Corbett, Oregon, Jan. 12, 2023. The two 943d Rescue Group, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, units carried out various rescue scenarios, ensuring Airmen are able to perform search and rescue operations in a variety of conditions and environments.

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