Helicopter Operations at Sea

Dynamic images of military helicopters conducting operations at sea, including refueling and transport missions, showcasing naval aviation capabilities.

ATLANTIC OCEAN - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, conducts flight operations near the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Jan. 24, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are underway conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is the final pre-deployment exercise that certifies the Kearsarge ARG and 22nd MEUs ability to conduct military operations through joint planning, and execute challenging and realistic scenarios. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jesse Schwab)

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.

220727-N-EJ843-1009 ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 27, 2022) U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Dalen Alexander directs a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter, attached to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), during flight operations aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), July 27, 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.

A CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 466, Marine Air Group 36, 1st Marine Air Wing and two MUH-1 Marineon helicopters with 2nd Helicopter Squadron, Republic of Korea Marine Air Group, fly in formation during Warrior Shield 24 off the coast of Pohang, South Korea, Feb. 28, 2024. Warrior Shield 24 is an annual joint, combined exercise in the Republic of Korea that strengthens the combined defensive capabilities of ROK-U.S Forces. This routine, regularly scheduled, field training exercise provides the ROK-U.S Marines the opportunity to rehearse combined operations, exchange knowledge, and demonstrate the strength and capability of the ROK-U.S Alliance. Marine Corps

000709-N-7412M-010. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH 2000 Base: Uss Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69)

GULF OF THAILAND (June 8, 2013) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) retrieve the winch from a Royal Thai Navy S-70B Navyhawk helicopter assigned to Royal Thai Navy Squadron 02, stationed at U'tapao Air Base, during a helicopter in-flight refueling simulation during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2013. More than 1,200 Sailors and Marines are participating in CARAT Thailand. CARAT is a series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. Navy and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Timor Leste.

An MH-60S Knighthawk, attached to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, approaches dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Medgar Evans (T-AKE 13) to transport ammunition to the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) during an ammunition onload, Sept. 26, 2022. Ford is underway in Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and workups for a scheduled deployment this fall.

ATLANTIC OCEAN - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, conducts flight operations near the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Jan. 24, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are underway conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is the final pre-deployment exercise that certifies the Kearsarge ARG and 22nd MEUs ability to conduct military operations through joint planning, and execute challenging and realistic scenarios. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jesse Schwab)

An SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter idles on the flight deck of the guided missile frigate USS NICHOLAS (FFG-47). Beneath the helicopter is the carriage for the ship's recovery assistance, securing and traversing (RAST) system. The NICHOLAS is en route to its home port at Naval Station, Charleston, S.C., after serving in the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD DESERT STORM Base: Charleston Harbor State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220910-N-LY160-1105 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 10, 2022) - A CH-53 Super Stallion assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Sept. 10, 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.

220719-N-CM110-1405 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 19, 2022) - An UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) prepares to land on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), July 19, 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.

041217-F-1740G-003. Base: USS Fort Mchenry (LSD 43)

An HH-3E Jolly Green Giant helicopter of the Air Force's 33rd Air Rescue Squadron on a medical evacuation mission hovers above the heli-pad of the amphibious command ship USS BLUE RIDGE (LCC-19). Country: Philippine Sea

A U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773 prepares to land aboard the San Antonio class dock landing ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) in the North Atlantic Ocean, Aug. 16, 2022. HMLA 773 launched three UH-1Y Venom and two AH-1Z Viper helicopters from McGuire Air Force Base and embarked them aboard the USS Mesa Verde for transit to Brazil in support of exercise UNITAS LXIII hosted by the Brazilian Navy and Marine Corps. 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.

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

U.S. Navy SH2F Sea Sprite Helicopter

A UH-60 Black Hawk (Blackhawk) helicopter is guided in for a landing on deck of the aircraft carrier during an air assault rehearsal. Subject Operation/Series: RESTORE DEMOCRACY Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69)

DN-SC-88-03307. Country: Persian Gulf

A U.S. Air Force MC-130J Commando II assigned to the 352d Special Operations Wing performs a helicopter air-to-air refueling with an Armée de l'Air et de lEspace (French Air and Space Force) EC725 Caracal on May 3, 2022. Both aircraft supported exercise Athena, a French-led joint and combined Special Operation Forces exercise that validates the full spectrum of integrated component and partner capabilities. Exercises like Athena allow U.S. service members to train at the operational and tactical echelon as a combined, joint force with SOF setting the conditions for larger operations.

DN-SC-87-11379. Country: Unknown

A Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14 (HM-14) RH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter trails a float in the water during a minesweeping operation. Country: Unknown

A CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 Marine Corps Station New River, North Carolina, conducts a flyover in Orlando, Florida, Oct. 26, 2022. The team was tasked with a flyover in memoriam of Silver Star recipient Lance Cpl. Frank J. Ambrose. Ambrose received a Silver Star for his exceptional courage, fighting, determination and complete dedication to duty during the Vietnam War.

An air-to-air left front view of a Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 2 (HS-2) SH-3H Sea King helicopter deploying a magnetic anomaly detector during a routine anti-submarine warfare patrol. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

MH-60S Knighthawk USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) US Navy

A Russian Ka-27 Helix helicopter clears the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS RANGER (CV-61) after lifting off from the vessel. The Helix is based aboard the guided missile destroyer Admiral Vinogradov (BPK-554) which, like the RANGER, is part of a multinational naval force participating in exercises in the region. Country: Northern Arabian Sea

The Navy's first operational Mark III LAMPS (Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System) SH-60B Seahawk helicopter lifts off from the flight deck of the guided missile frigate USS CROMMELIN (FFG 37), during flight deck landing qualifications off the coast of San Clemente, California. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

220805-N-XN177-1501 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 5, 2022) - A UH-1Y Venom helicopter 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.

220616-N-CJ603-1012CARIBBEAN SEA (June 16, 2022) An MH-60S assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28 prepares to land on the flight deck of the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), during exercise Caraibes 2022, June 16, 2022. Caraibes 2022 is a French led, combined and joint training exercise in the Caribbean involving naval, air and land assets. This multi-national exercise aims to promote cooperation among regional forces and their collective ability to successfully provide humanitarian assistance/disaster relief in response to a natural disaster.

While participating in a vertical replenishment (VERTREP) between (US Naval Ships) USNS Concord (T-AFS 5) and USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), a SA-330 Puma Helicopter prepares to release pallets of supplies onto the flight deck of the carrier. TRUMAN is on station in the Arabian Gulf in support of 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)

040915-F-3208M-103. Base: Usns Rappahannock Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

EAST CHINA SEA (Aug. 31, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, Detachment 6, prepares to land on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6) while underway in the East China Sea, Aug. 31, 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.

An HH-60G Pave Hawk from the 33rd Rescue Squadron at Kadena Air Base, Japan, performs a rope-ladder recovery with Airmen from the 320th Special Tactics Squadron during an amphibious operations exercise Sept. 22, 2015, off the west coast of Okinawa, Japan. Special tactics team Airmen are organized, trained, and equipped to conduct special operations core tasks during high-risk combat operations.

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 17, 2014) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Harris Michael, from Pittsburg, directs a CH-53E Super Sea Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 465 during flight operations aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). Peleliu will participate in exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC), a large multinational naval exercise, as the command ship for the expeditionary strike group and is scheduled to conduct a follow-on deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

A helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 7 (HS-7) SH-3H Sea King helicopter comes in for a landing aboard one of the ships participating in Fleet Ex 1-90. Subject Operation/Series: FLEET EX 1-90 Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

An SH-2F Seasprite from Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 34 (HSL-34) takes off from the flight deck of the destroyer USS O'BANNON (DD 987). The O'BANNON is sailing south to take part in UNITAS XXXII, a combined exercise involving the naval forces of the United States and nine South American nations. Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS XXXII Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

Pilots fly a CH-46E Sea Knight from USS Makin Island to USS Pearl Harbor here, May 6. The pilots serve with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 (Reinforced), the aviation combat element for the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The unit embarked USS Makin Island, USS New Orleans and USS Pearl Harbor in San Diego, Nov. 14 beginning a seven-month deployment to the Western Pacific, Horn of Africa and Middle East regions.

220910-N-XN177-1154 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 10, 2022) - An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Strike Maritime Squadron (HSM) 51 prepares for refueling aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 10, 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.

120207-N-BC134-317 ARABIAN SEA (Feb. 7, 2012) A search and rescue swimmer assigned to the guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) is deployed from 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.

030315-N-9593M-033. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Base: USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72)

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 11, 2022) Sailors, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 3, rope down from an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the Chargers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14, onto the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) during a helicopter visit, board, search and seizure (HVBSS) training. 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.

Marines board a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS INCHON (LPH-12) as the vessel takes part in the joint exercise Dragon Hammer '92. A UH-1N Iroquois helicopter is parked in the background. Subject Operation/Series: DRAGON HAMMER '92 Country: Mediterranean Sea(MED)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fast rope and extract during a day and night fast roping exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the South China Sea, Sept. 15, 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.

220817-N-XN177-2153 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 17, 2022) - A CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) 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.

220808-N-GF955-1031ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 8, 2022) A MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 79, Detachment 2 lands on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117), Aug. 8, 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.

120412-N-JY929-007ARABIAN SEA (April 12, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 transports supplies from the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10) to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), not pictured, during a replenishment at sea. Abraham Lincoln 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.

221109-N-IL330-1020 TASMAN SEA (Nov. 9, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 lands 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.

A Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 4 (HC-4) CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter idles on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA (CV-60) during Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Red Sea

011101-N-0271M-003. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Uss Kitty Hawk (CV 63) Scene Major Command Shown: USS Kitty Hawk

060826-N-8604L-107. Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

DN-ST-87-06740. Base: USS Sides (FFG 14)

A UH-1N helicopter approaches for a landing on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS GUAM (LPH-9) as another UH-1N prepares to take off. The helicopters are participating in flight operations off the coast of Beirut, Lebanon. Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

A SH-3H helicopter of the Spanish Navy landing aboard the Castilla (L52).

DN-ST-88-00262. Base: Diego Garcia Country: British Indian Ocean Territory (IOT)

A Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 8 (HC-8) UH-46 Sea Knight helicopter hovers over the fast combat support ship USS DETROIT (AOE-4) as it prepares to deliver supplies from the DETROIT to the aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA (CV-60) during underway replenishment operations. The vessels are in the region in support of Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Red Sea

DN-ST-88-07352. Base: San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DN-SC-87-06162. Base: Unknown

A Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 6 (HC-6) CH-46D Sea Knight helicopter lifts off from the Military Sealift Command-operated combat stores ship USNS SIRIUS (T-AFS-8). The helicopter is taking part in vertical replenishment operations in the aftermath of Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Red Sea

DN-SC-89-09430. Base: Unknown

A Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 5 (HC-5) HH-46A Sea Knight helicopter from the combat stores ship USS NIAGARA FALLS (AFS-3) hovers over the flight deck of the Russian guided missile destroyer ADMIRAL VINOGRADOV (BPK-554) as it prepares to deliver supplies to the vessel during the first Russian/U.S. Navy underway replenishment operation. Country: Northern Arabian Sea

PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 29, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Indians of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 6 carries cargo between the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7) during a vertical replenishment at sea. Nimitz is underway participating in its Composite Training Unit Exercise. 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.

Pilots flying a CH-46E Sea Knight take off from USS Pearl Harbor here May 7. The pilots serve with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 (Reinforced), the aviation combat element for the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The unit embarked USS Makin Island, USS New Orleans and USS Pearl Harbor in San Diego, Nov. 14, beginning a seven-month deployment to the Western Pacific, Horn of Africa and Middle East regions.

221007-N-ZQ263-1073 PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 7, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, from the Screamin Indians of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 6, takes off from the flight deck of 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.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (March 27, 2018) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9 carries ordnance from the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) to the fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6) during an ammunition offload. The ship is underway conducting sustainment exercises to maintain carrier readiness.

The co-pilot of a Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 5 (HC-5) HH-46A Sea Knight helicopter watches from his side window as the helicopter hovers over a ship while conducting a vertical replenishment during Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Unknown

Flight deck personnel and the crew prepare a Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 31 (HSL-33) SH-2F Seasprite helicopter for takeoff on the flight deck of the guided missile cruiser USS JOUETT (CG-29) during Operation Southern Watch. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Base: USS Jouett (CG 29)

060722-N-7202W-021. Base: USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

DN-SD-06-11728. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

220416-N-XN177-1081 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 16, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 prepares to land aboard amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), April 16, 2022. Tripoli is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 3, 2022) An AS 332 Super Puma helicopter assigned to Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4) drops cargo on the flight deck during a vertical replenishment-at-sea with Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101). Gridley 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.

220815-N-XN177-1007 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 15, 2022) - An MH-06S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 flies over amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), 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 flight deck crewmember from the Iwo Jima Class Amphibious Assault Ship, USS NEW ORLEANS LPH 11, stands back to camera and marshals in a US Army UH-1N Huey Medical Evacuation Helicopter on the deck of the NEW ORLEANS during a joint service mass casualty exercise held 18 November 1993. The 46th Medical Task Force conducted the exercise with members of the US Marines and Navy to determine what actions will be taken in the event of a mass casualty situation during Operation Continue Hope in Mogadishu, Somalia. Subject Operation/Series: RESTORE HOPE Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

EAST CHINA SEA (June 30, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned 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.

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 MH-60S Knighthawk, attached to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, conducts security during a simulated straits transit with the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) in the Atlantic Ocean, Oct. 9, 2022. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is deployed in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navy's commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

A US Marine Corps (USMC) CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter uses a sling to lift a High-Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) from the flight deck of the USS PELELIU (LHA 5), during Exercise KERNEL BLITZ 2001. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ 2001 Base: Uss Peleliu (LHA 5)

MH-60S SeahawkUSS Kitty Hawk (CV 63)US Navy

A flight deck crewman, left, moves toward a Brazilian P-16 helicopter to remove tie-down chains. The helicopter is being prepared for takeoff from the aircraft carrier MINAS GERAIS (A 11) during Operation UNITAS XXV. Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS XXV Base: Minas Gerais (A 11)

221130-N-EV253-1539 SAN DIEGO (Nov. 30, 2022) - Lt. Amanda Graham, an HM-60S Seahawk pilot assigned to the Merlins of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 3, jumps from a UH-1Y Venom helicopter, assigned to the Vipers of Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 169 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 U.S. Marine Corps 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 and procedures. As the designated SARMM, the Merlins of HSC-3 ensures that SAR units are fully-qualified to perfor

DN-ST-87-05885. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

An SH-60H Seahawk helicopter from the "Nightdippers" of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Five (HS 5) touches down on the deck of aircraft carrier USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65) during turnover operations with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73) (background) in the western Mediterranean Sea. George Washington is nearing completion of her second scheduled deployment since her commissioning, while the Enterprise returns to sea for her first scheduled deployment in several years. Base: USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

A U.S. Marine with III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF), jumps from a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Heavy Marine Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 361 during a helocasting masters course conducted by Expeditionary Operations Training Group (EOTG) at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 7, 2022. Helocasting is an airborne technique used by small unit special operations forces to insert into hard to reach areas via bodies of water.

110409-N-SG869-099PACIFIC OCEAN (April 9, 2011) Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Koy Castle, from Houston, and Logistics Specialist 1st Class Kristopher Forest, from Watts, Calif., move to safety after hooking a load of cargo nets onto an SA-330 Puma helicopter aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during a replenishment at sea. Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean.

KOREA STRAIT (March 31, 2023) - A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) salutes MH-60S pilots after a successful takeoff from the Makin Island flight deck, March 31, 2023. The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit is embarked with the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of the Makin Island and the amphibious transport dock ships USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) and USS Anchorage (LPD 23), and operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of 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 CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS GUAM (LPH 9) during Operation URGENT FURY off the coast of Grenada. Subject Operation/Series: URGENT FURY Country: Caribbean Sea

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 7, 2022) Logistics Specialist Seaman Joel Elizee, left, from Golpsboro, N.C., and Chief Logistics Specialist Willie Bates, from Elizabethtown, Ky., observe an AS332 Super Puma transport cargo on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during a vertical replenishment-at-sea with the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4). 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.

DN-SC-85-03102. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

A 45th Medical Company UH-60 Black Hawk (Blackhawk) helicopter stands on the flight deck of the hospital ship USNS COMFORT (T-AH-20) with wheels chocked in preparation for a drill in support of Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Base: Usns Comfort (T-AH 20)

DN-SC-05-07461. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

CH-46E Sea KnightUS Marine Corps

221006-N-XK462-1040 PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 6, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Screamin’ Indians” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 6 prepares to land on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108). Wayne E. Meyer is currently operating with Nimitz Carrier Strike Group in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

220606-N-XN177-1016 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 3, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 prepares to take off from the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 3, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

DN-ST-87-12521. Country: Persian Gulf

An HH-46D Sea Knight helicopter from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron II (HC-11) picks up supplies from the replenishment oiler USS KANSAS CITY (AOR-3) to take to the aircraft carrier USS RANGER (CV-61) as the guided missile cruiser USS VALLEY FORGE (CG-50) steams behind them. The ships are on station in the Persian Gulf region following Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Unknown

A diver of helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 10 (HS-10) jumps from the door of an SH-3H Sea King helicopter during search-and-rescue training. Base: San Diego Bay State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An HH-46 Sea Knight helicopter takes off from the back of the Sacramento Class: Fast Combat Support Ship, USS SEATTLE (AOE 3) while the ship is resupplying USS INDEPENDENCE (CV 62). The helicopter is flying to USS BUNKER HILL (CG 52) (Not shown). All three ships are in the Persian Gulf as part of Southwest Asia Build-up. Country: Unknown

DN-ST-86-11422. Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

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