Helicopters Over Ocean Operations

Images of military helicopters, such as AH-1W Sea Cobras and MH-60S Sea Hawks, conducting flight operations over the ocean, showcasing action and military engagements.

An AB212 helicopter of the Spanish Navy landing aboard Principe de Asturias (R11).

A Marine Utility/Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 (HML/A-167) AH-1W Sea Cobra helicopter passes over the bay en route to the amphibious assault ship USS WASP (LHD-1) during flight operations off the coast of North Carolina. Base: Onslow Bay State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

PACIFIC OCEAN (April 2, 2023) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk, assigned to the Eightballers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8, approaches the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), April 2, 2023. The ship changed its homeport from Bremerton to San Diego after completing an 18-month docking planned incremental availability in Bremerton, Wash., during which the ship received extensive restorations and upgrades to support the F-35C Lightning II, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, and CMV-22B Osprey, as well as future platforms such as the MQ-25 Stingray unmanned aircraft system.

DN-SC-87-02792. Country: Unknown

DN-SC-04-14294. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

220720-N-MZ836-1345 ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 20, 2022) A U.S. Navy MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, hovers above the Atlantic Ocean during a search and rescue exercise with the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) July 20, 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.

The Navy's first operational Mark III LAMPS (Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System) SH-60B Seahawk helicopter approaches 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)

A Westland Wessex Helicopter from the Royal Navy.

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to the Aviation Combat Element of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepares to land aboard the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), 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. Marine Corps

An AB212 helicopter of the Spanish Navy landing aboard Principe de Asturias (R11).

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.

Survivors are picked up by an HH-53 Super Jolly helicopter during Operation Cope Angel. Subject Operation/Series: COPE ANGEL Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

Visit of Secretary Gale Norton, aides to Gulf Coast to view damage from Hurricane Katrina

111117-N-SK590-275SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Nov. 17, 2011) A Marine assigned to the Marine Corps Training Division at Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Pacific jumps from a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter assigned to the Knightriders of Marine Medium Helicopter Training Squadron (HMMT) 164 during a training exercise. The exercise was the conclusion of the Infantry Company Small Boat Raid Course.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 20, 2020) An MH-60R Sea Hawk, attached to the "Easy Riders" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 37, prepares to deliver a payload to the the Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Henry M. Jackson (SSBN 730) in the vicinity of the Hawaiian Islands. Underway replenishment sustains the fleet anywhere/anytime. This event was designed to test and evaluate the tactics, techniques, and procedures of U.S. Strategic Command's expeditionary logistics and enhance the overall readiness of our strategic forces.

DN-SC-87-08834. Base: Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DN-SC-87-02791. Country: Unknown

040915-F-3208M-097. Base: Usns Rappahannock Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

DN-ST-88-00938. Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

S65-55565 (15 Oct. 1965) --- Astronaut Frank Borman, Gemini-7 prime crew command pilot, is hoisted out of the water by a U.S. Coast Guard recovery team during water egress training in the Gulf of Mexico. The training is in preparation for the planned 14-day mission in space of the Gemini-7 spacecraft. Astronaut James A. Lovell Jr., prime crew pilot, also took part in the training.

A Westland Wasp Mk.1, Series 2 & 2A (AH-12A) submarine control helicopter (1966-1981) exercises saving drowners.

220824-N-EV253-1508 An MH-60S Sea Hawk attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 deploys an Airborne Mine Neutralization System (AMNS) in Pyramid Cove during a mine countermeasure (MCM) live fire training exercise off the coast of San Clemente Island, Aug. 24, 2022. The MCM live fire is realistic, relevant training that enables our joint, multi-domain forces to integrate and rehearse a critical capability and complex skillset.

A right side view of an SH-60B Seahawk light airborne multi-purpose system (LAMPS III) helicopter from Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 43 (HSL-43), just prior to landing aboard the guided missile frigate USS CROMMELIN (FFG-37). AN/ASQ-81 Magnetic Anomaly Detection (MAD) gear is visible on the side of the helicopter. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

A Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 34 (HSL-34) SH-2F Seasprite helicopter prepares to land aboard the guided missile cruiser USS JOSEPHUS DANIELS (CG 27). The cruiser is one of five U.S. Navy ships taking part in Unitas XXXI, an annual, joint exercise between the U.S. Navy and the naval forces of nine South American countries. Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS XXXI Country: Unknown

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, deliver supplies to Marines on the ground for exercise EFES 2022, Turkey, May 28, 2022. EFES22 is an international Combined Joint Live-Fire Exercise focused on increasing force readiness, promoting stability and prosperity in the region, and interoperability between the U.S., Turkey, and allied nations.

Sailors aboard dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Medgar Evers (T-AKE 13) load ammunition onto an MH-60S Nighthawk, attached to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9; 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.

An SH-3 Sea King helicopter lifts off from the flight deck as fog envelops the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72) shortly after the ship's departure from port in Rio de Janeiro. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

A CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Heavy Marine Helicopter Training Unit 302, Marine Corps Station New River, North Carolina, flies over the Gulf of Mexico during a training exercise, Oct. 25, 2022. The CH-53E can carry a 26,000 pound light armored vehicle or 16 tons of cargo for 100 miles. The helicopter is compact enough to deploy on amphibious assault ships and has the armament, speed and agility to qualify as much more than a heavy lifter. (U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Lauren Cobin)

220816-N-MW880-1686 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 16, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopters, attached to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46, flies above the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) in the Atlantic Ocean, Aug. 16 2022. The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is an integrated combat weapons system that delivers superior combat capability to deter, and if necessary, defeat Americas adversaries in support of national security. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of CSG-10 and George H.W. Bush CSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, VFA-103, VFA-86, VFA-136, Electronics Attack Squadron (VAW) 121, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and HSM-46.

An MH-60S Sea Hawk attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 deploys an Airborne Mine Neutralization System (AMNS) in Pyramid Cove during a mine countermeasure (MCM) live fire training exercise off the coast of San Clemente Island, Aug. 26, 2022. The MCM live fire is realistic, relevant training that enables our joint, multi-domain forces to integrate and rehearse a critical capability and complex skillset.

220714-N-KD380-3071 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 14,2022) An MH-60S Seahawk, attached to the Firehawks" of Helicopter Sea Combat squadron (HSC) 85, executes Deck Landing Qualifications (DLQ) from San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Portland (LPD 27) as part of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022 in Southern California. 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 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 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 CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter of Composite Helicopter Squadron Detachment 4 approaches the amphibious assault ship USS TRIPOLI (LPH-10) during a vertical replenishment (VERTREP). The pilot of the helicopter is LT. Susan Marshall, assigned to USNS NIAGARA FALLS (T-AFS-3). Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

220602-N-WU964-1245 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 2, 2022) Two MH-60S Seahawks attached to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 conduct flight operations from the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) 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.

A CH-46E Sea Knight, with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 Red Dragons,” flies toward USS Makin Island after a live fire exercise during Exercise Iron Fist here Feb. 27. Marines, with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, attached to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and soldiers, with the Japanese Western Army Infantry Regiment, are participating in the bilateral training to enhance the services interoperability.

221211-N-NM271-3120 PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 11, 2022) Two MH-60 Seahawk helicopters attached to the Wildcards” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 assist with recovery of the NASA Orion spacecraft in the Pacific Ocean, Dec. 11, 2022. Amphibious transport dock USS Portland (LPD 27), along with Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Montgomery (LCS 8), is underway in U.S. 3rd Fleet in support of the recovery. The retrieval operation is part of a Department of Defense effort that integrates combatant command service capabilities to determine best practices for safely retrieving spacecraft capable of carrying humans into space. The U.S. Navy has many unique capabilities that make it an ideal partner for supporting NASA, including its amphibious and expeditionary capabilities with the ability to embark helicopters, launch and recover small boats, three-dimensional air search radar and advanced medical facilities.

Sikorsky Military Helicopters Aviat HH-60J Jayhawk AirSta Sitka USCG U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer hoist

DN-ST-88-04176. Base: Black Sea

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 26, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14, conducts search and rescue training for 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.

A UH-1N Iroquois helicopter from Marine Utility/Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 (HML/A-167) comes in to land aboard the aviation logistic ship USNS WRIGHT (T-AVB 3) off the coast of Puerto Rico during exercise OCEAN VENTURE '88. Subject Operation/Series: OCEAN VENTURE '88 Country: Caribbean Sea

220409-N-GF955-1110CARIBBEAN SEA - (April 9, 2022) - MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, Detachments 6 and 7, fly over the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Wichita (LCS 13) while conducting counter narcotics operations with the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Billings (LCS 15), April 9, 2022. Billings and Wichita are deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force Souths mission, which includes counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

GULF OF MANNAR (Jan. 23, 2023) - A U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom pilot with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 362 (Rein.), 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducts flight operations in support of a vessel, board, search, and seizure exercise for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training/Marine Exercise Sri Lanka 2023, Jan. 23. CARAT/MAREX Sri Lanka is a bilateral exercise between Sri Lanka and the United States designed to promote regional security cooperation, practice humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and strengthen maritime understanding, partnerships, and interoperability. In its 28th year, the CARAT series is comprised of multinational exercises, designed to enhance U.S. and partner forces abilities to operate together in response to traditional and non-traditional maritime security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

220731-N-DW158-1011 PHILIPPINE SEA (July 31, 2022) A Super Puma (EC-225) helicopter prepares to deliver cargo from The Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE 7) to the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), during a vertical replenishment in the Philippine Sea, July 31. During the evolution, Carl Brashear transported cargo and ammunition to Ronald Reagan via connected and vertical replenishment. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

DN-ST-87-10122. Country: Unknown

120820-N-ZZ999-006GULF OF ADEN (Aug. 20, 2012) An SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42, Det. 8, embarked aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), not pictured, conducts a medical evacuation of an injured crew member from the Panamanian-flagged, bulk carrier M/V Belde approximately 110 miles north of Socotra Island, Oman. Winston S. Churchill is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 150, conducting counter-terrorism and maritime security operations in the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, Red Sea and Indian Ocean.

U.S. Navy Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC) on board a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) observe an Army CH-47 Chinook helicopter assigned to the 159th Aviation Regiment as it lifts another RHIB during a maritime external air transportation system (MEATS) training exercise in the Virginia Capes near Fort Eustis, Va., July 16, 2008 MEATS trains members of SWCC on extending their operational reach by attaching special operations crafts to helicopters for transport to remote locations for further training.

120613-N-NB694-172 ARABIAN GULF (June 13, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 flies cargo between the Military Sealift Command Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10) and the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during a replenishment at sea. Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and combat flight operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

An air-to-air right side view of an RH-53D Sea Stallion towing a mine countermeasures hydrofoil sled during a demonstration of minesweeping techniques. The helicopter is assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14 (HM-14). Country: Chesapeake Bay

220819-N-XN177-1165 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 19, 2022) - An MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) takes off from amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 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.

A left side view of two RH-35D Sea Stallion helicopters from Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 16 (HM-16) in flight. Subject Operation/Series: EVENING LIGHT Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

The Coast Guard Air Station Houston MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew flies alongside the Famous-class medium endurance cutter USCGC Mohawk (WMEC 913) in the Atlantic Ocean, July 5, 2022. USCGC Mohawk 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.

An MH-60S Seahawk helicopter, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, is pictured during a photo exercise off the coast of Guam. Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, Island Knights, maintains a 24-hour search and rescue and medical evacuation alert posture, directly supporting the U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Guam and Joint Region Marianas. HSC-25 ensures maritime peace and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

220922-N-XN177-2222 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 22, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 flies over the Philippine Sea 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.

221024-A-NR779-1017 ARABIAN GULF (Oct. 24, 2022) Sailors assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26 participate in search and rescue training in the Arabian Gulf, Oct. 24. HSC-26 trains pilots and aircrewmen to employ the MH-60S Sea Hawk worldwide in a variety of missions, including fleet logistics support, search and rescue, medical evacuation, special warfare support, anti-surface warfare, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

A U.S. Army MH-47 Chinook helicopter with 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment hovers over the water as part of helocast training with Marines from Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, during Steel Knight 23 off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 2, 2022. Helocasting is a maritime insertion method for small units during amphibious operations. Steel Knight is an annual combined arms live-fire exercise which ensures 1st MARDIV is optimized for naval expeditionary warfare in contested spaces, and is purpose-built to facilitate future operations afloat and ashore.

An SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter comes in for a landing on the flight deck of the guided missile frigate USS NICHOLAS (FFG-47). 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 Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

220105-N-GF955-1213CARIBBEAN SEA - (Jan. 5, 2022) -- An MQ-8B Fire Scout unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), assigned to the Shadow Det” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, Detachment 7, lands on the flight deck of the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Billings (LCS 15), Jan. 5, 2022. Billings is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force South’s mission, which includes counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

220922-N-XN177-1117 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 22, 2022) - A naval air crewman jumps out of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 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.

Pacific Ocean, September 7, 2005 - A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter prepares to for landing aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). Peleliu is currently underway in the Pacific Ocean conducting flight qualifications.

110717-N-RC734-184ARABIAN GULF (July 17, 2011) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26 carries supplies from Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8), not pictured, during a vertical replenishment with the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20), background, and the amphibious dock landing ship USS Comstock (LSD 45), not pictured. Comstock and Green Bay are underway supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

This photo depicts the recovery of the Freedom 7 (MR-3) capsule by a U.S. Marine helicopter. The MR-3 mission successfully placed the first American astronaut, Alan Shepard, in space for 15-1/2 minutes and returned safely to Earth on May 5, 1961.

An SA 330 Puma helicopter carries stores between USNS KANAWHA (T-AO 96) and USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) during a replenishment at sea in the early hours of the morning. Truman is on station in the Persian Gulf in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Base: USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75)

Crewmembers assigned to USCGC Hamilton (WMSL 753) are hoisted down onto the Swedish Coast Guard vessel Amfitrite during a search and rescue exercise in the Baltic Sea, Oct. 31, 2022. Hamilton 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.

U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Taylor Anderson, an aviation maintenance technician assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Houston, conducts hoist training with the Famous-class medium endurance cutter USCGC Mohawk (WMEC 913) in the Atlantic Ocean, July 5, 2022. USCGC Mohawk 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.

An MH-60S Sea Hawk attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 hovers in Pyramid Cove during a mine countermeasure (MCM) live fire training exercise off the coast of San Clemente Island, Aug. 23, 2022. The MCM live fire is realistic, relevant training that enables our joint, multi-domain forces to integrate and rehearse a critical capability and complex skillset.

000913-N-8743M-005. State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Crewmembers from the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star (WAGB 10) signal to a National Science Foundation helicopter air crew after they deliver parts to the cutter in McMurdo Sound, Jan. 12, 2024. Polar Star is enroute to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze, a joint service, interagency support operation for the National Science Foundation, which manages the United States Antarctic Program.

NORFOLK (April 13, 2021) Sailors assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5 participate in a search-and-rescue exercise, April 13, 2021. HSC-5 is the MH-60S Sea Hawk squadron of Carrier Air Wing Seven that is embarked on the aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) for its upcoming deployment.

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53K King Stallion prepares to land during a bilateral amphibious landing on Claveria beach as part of Balikatan 22, March 31, 2022. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades shared experiences. 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 iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of the U.S.-Philippine security cooperation.

DF-ST-85-08866. Subject Operation/Series: SAREX '83 Country: South China Sea

PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 2, 2022) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Ernest Pelicano, from Round Rock, Texas, signals to an MH-60S Sea Hawk, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21, on the flight deck of Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, Aug. 2. 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.

A U.S. Air Force Loadmaster assigned to the 352d Special Operations Wing sits on the ramp of a U.S. Air Force MC-130J Commando II over Normandy, France, June 6, 2022. The 352 SOW participated in numerous ceremonies and events to commemorate the 78th anniversary of D-Day, the largest multinational amphibious landing and operational military airdrop in history, and highlights the U.S. steadfast commitment to European allies and partners.

NATUNA SEA (Mar. 26, 2023) Sonar Technician (Surface) 3rd Class Samuel Fox, from Dallas, uses hand signals to guide in an MH-60R SeaHawk, attached to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35, to the flight deck aboard Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Oakland (LCS 24) as Oakland sails across the Natuna Sea, Mar. 26, 2023. Oakland, part of Destroyer Squadron 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with Allies and partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

An air-to-air left rear view of a Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 43 (HSL-43) SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter releasing a Mark 46 torpedo during anti-submarine warfare operations off the coast of Southern California. (Second view in a series of two). Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

DN-ST-86-01448. Country: Unknown

Tactical Air Control Party Airmen with the 227th Air Support Operations Squadron, New Jersey Air National Guard, conduct Fast-Rope Insertion Extraction System and Special Purpose Insertion Extraction training from a UH-60 Black Hawk with the 1-150th Assault Helicopter Battalion, New Jersey Army National Guard, during exercise "I Am Ready" at Island Beach State Park, Seaside Park, N.J, Nov. 18, 2016. "I Am Ready" is an aviation centric, joint training exercise between the New Jersey Army and Air National Guard and New Jersey State Police to validate mutual aid agreements and response efforts for homeland security and domestic operations requiring New Jersey National Guard rotary wing support.

Two Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14 (HM-14) MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters fly over the gulf while deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Persian Gulf

221211-N-NM271-3130 PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 11, 2022) Two MH-60 Seahawk helicopters attached to the Wildcards” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 assist with recovery of the NASA Orion spacecraft in the Pacific Ocean, Dec. 11, 2022. Amphibious transport dock USS Portland (LPD 27), along with Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Montgomery (LCS 8), is underway in U.S. 3rd Fleet in support of the recovery. The retrieval operation is part of a Department of Defense effort that integrates combatant command service capabilities to determine best practices for safely retrieving spacecraft capable of carrying humans into space. The U.S. Navy has many unique capabilities that make it an ideal partner for supporting NASA, including its amphibious and expeditionary capabilities with the ability to embark helicopters, launch and recover small boats, three-dimensional air search radar and advanced medical facilities.

DN-SC-87-01784. Subject Operation/Series: CLOSE LOOK Base: Caribbean Sea

A U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773 sits on the landing pad of 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.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Joshua Primm, a crew chief with Marine Motor Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit gets ready for an air delivery aboard an MV-22B Osprey above Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 29, 2022. The training is used to improve crew chiefs accuracy in air deliveries, a way to quickly resupply targets on the ground without needing a landing area. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

040729-F-1166S-001. Base: Long Beach Island State: New Jersey (NJ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft assigned to Yokota Air Base released flares during a formation flight over Japan, Oct. 22, 2022. The aircrew demonstrated their countermeasure capabilities and proficiency in flight during a show of force demonstration to deter adversarial actions and ensure regional security during the wings Samurai Readiness Inspection.

220613-N-XN177-1136 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 13, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 launches from the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 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.

US Marines Corps (USMC) frogmen jump from a USMC UH-1N Huey helicopter, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron-263 (HMM-263), New River, North Carolina (NC), during a Capabilities Exercise (CAPEX) held aboard Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, North Carolina (NC). The CAPEX provides realistic training for all personnel and ranges from helicopter insertion of troops to amphibious assaults, urban warfare, hostage situation dealings and demonstrations on rapid bridge construction. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 17, 2015) Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Myisha Buckhalder holds Landing Signalman Enlisted (LSE) Seaman Richard Porter as a CH-53E Super Stallion takes off from the flight deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) during a weapons off-load. Ashland is assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group and is on patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

220824-N-EV253-1440 An MH-60S Sea Hawk attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 hovers in Pyramid Cove during a mine countermeasure (MCM) live fire training exercise off the coast of San Clemente Island, Aug. 24, 2022. The MCM live fire is realistic, relevant training that enables our joint, multi-domain forces to integrate and rehearse a critical capability and complex skillset.

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, participates in an aerial maneuver rehearsal alongside aircraft from the Turkish Armed Forces during exercise EFES 2022 in Turkey, June 4, 2022. EFES22 is an international combined joint live-fire exercise focused on increasing force readiness, promoting stability and prosperity in the region, and interoperability between the U.S., Turkey, and allied nations.

A C-17 Globemaster III assigned to Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, flies over south Florida during Operation Centennial Contact, June 27, 2023. During the operation, more than 150 aircraft flew above communities around the country and across the world to honor 100 years of air refueling excellence. With 100 years of experience, the U.S. Air Forces air refueling capabilities deliver unrivaled rapid global reach and meaningful maneuver for the Joint Force and our Allies and partners. Aerial refueling serves as a force multiplier, increasing the speed, range, lethality, flexibility and versatility of combat aircraft. Tankers also carry cargo and passengers, perform aeromedical evacuations, and enable strategic deterrence for the United States.

Astronaut David R. Scott, pilot of the Gemini 8 prime crew, stands on deck of the NASA Motor Vessel Retriever after suiting up for water egress training in the Gulf of Mexico.

A 33rd Rescue Squadron HH-60 Pave Hawk flies over Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 22, 2022. The 33rd RQS conducts extensive training in various rescue scenarios to ensure they are ready to effectively respond to real-world contingencies.

ESU Incident Command Post New Orleans - Commandant Thomas H. Collins and President George W. Bush Visit - 26-HK-304-22. Hurricane Katrina

A CH-47 Chinook assigned to the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, flies over the Grayrocks Reservoir during the Team Leader Training Event on July 20, 2022, in Guernsey, Wyoming. Soldiers inside the helicopter would then jump out when it reached the drop off area.

220815-N-IX644-1082 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 15, 2022) An F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft attached to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103, flies over the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), Aug. 15, 2022. The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is an integrated combat weapons system that delivers superior combat capability to deter, and if necessary, defeat Americas adversaries in support of national security. The George H.W. Bush CSG completed Fleet Battle Problem (FBP) 22-2 from August 14-19, 2022. FBP 22-2 integrated naval, marine and air capabilities to support Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) and test use of IAMD systems capability in a contested environment while providing vigorous Maritime Homeland Defense.

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