Modern Helicopter Operations

Dynamic images of military personnel loading and refueling helicopters during training exercises, showcasing teamwork and advanced logistics in various locations.

U.S. Soldiers with 30th Medical Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Command participate in Best Squad Competition at Local Training Area Oberdachstetten, Ansbach, Germany, Army

U.S. Marines with VMM-265 (Reinforced) and U.S. Army Soldiers with 1-1 Air Defense Artillery Brigade (ADA) load a Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC) 3 Training Can into a CH-53E Super Stallion during a training exercise in Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 18, 2024. The loading system was designed by GySgt. Rodrigo HernandezPolindara, VMM-265, to offer a more efficient method of transporting HIMARS.

CAMP BONDSTEEL, Kosovo - U.S. Army aviators from 2nd Battalion, 224th Aviation Regiment, 29th Combat Aviation Brigade, 29th Infantry Division, Virginia National Guard, conduct sling load training for non-aviation Soldiers at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, Aug. 8, 2022. Liaison Monitoring Team Soldiers from Kosovo Forces Regional Command East underwent the training in order to learn how to safely conduct sling load operations, allowing for the rapid insertion of supplies and equipment even in the most remote of locations.

Naval Aircrewman (helicopter) 2nd Class Brandon Terry, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, returns from a flight aboard an MH-60S Nighthawk at Naval Air Station Fallon. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10 and the George H.W. Bush CSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, VFA-103, VFA-86, VFA-136, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46.

U.S. Soldiers with 30th Medical Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Command participate in Best Squad Competition at Local Training Area Oberdachstetten, Ansbach, Germany, Army

Special Mission Aviators assigned to the 66th Rescue Squadron perform pre-flight inspections on a HH-60G Pave Hawk combat search and rescue (CSAR) helicopter before a training mission April 28, 2022, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. Throughout the Air Force SMAs execute tasks other than piloting the aircraft, including acting as flight engineer, loadmaster, aerial gunner, navigator, weapons system specialist, electronic warfare officer, radio operator, sensor operator and combat systems officer.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fast ropes 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.

UH-60 Blackhawks and an Apache AH-64 from the Utah Army National Guard brought in distinguished visitors to visit more than 200 service members across four major commands who participated in a one day exercise held at Dugway Proving Ground on Sept. 8, 2022. The joint force exercise prioritized the concepts of Agile Combat Employment and Multi-Capable Airmen.

Spc. Logan James, 10th Mountain Division, monitors radio communications at the landing zone during a medevac exercise in preparation for Cadet Summer Training at Fort Knox, Ky., May 28, 2022. This was a multi-unit exercise with 1st Infantry Division UH-60 Black Hawk pilots and flight paramedics to ensure readiness during a medical emergency. | Photo by Kyle Crawford, U.S. Army Cadet Command Public Affairs

Artillery Soldiers from Bravo Battery, 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division conduct sling-load operations and elevator drills with 3rd Attack Helicopter Battalion, 1st Aviation Regiment, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division on Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, Romania, Jan. 4, 2024, to increase readiness and proficiency in air assault operations.

011018-F-7203T-002. Subject Operation/Series: BRIGHT STAR 01/02 Base: Mubarak Military City Country: Egypt (EGY)

4th Infantry Division Soldiers move a simulated casualty care training aid onto a UH-60 Blackhawk as a part of Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) training on Pershing Field at Fort Carson, Colorado, April 27, 2022. Soldiers are expected to provide aid to battle buddies while on the battlefield if injured, and will call in transportation to help move personnel.

050818-F-6988D-005. Base: Fort Polk State: Louisiana (LA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

British soldiers perform maintenance on an Apache helicopter at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan

Paratroopers assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division conduct Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP) operations on February 21, 2024. FARP provides fuel and ordnance necessary for fixed-wing operations. Army

Marines with 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit Units Maritime Interception Operation raid force fast-rope onto their objective from a hovering MH-60S Seahawk with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22 during a Maritime Interception Operation exercise at a training facility in Barnwell, S.C., June 23, 2010. 26th MEU Units Maritime Interception Operation raid force and HSC-22 conducted the three-day exercise in preparation for the MEUs deployment this fall. The exercise hones the MEUs ability to swiftly control the operation of a hostile ship or maritime platform.

041117-F-1646R-019. Base: Maniago State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA)

Soldiers with the 341st Medical Multifunction Battalion from Seagoville, Texas, load a patient onto a helicopter during a medical evacuation training during the Golden Coyote Training Exercise at Camp Rapid, South Dakota, June 14, 2022. Golden Coyote is a three-phase, scenario-driven exercise conducted in South Dakota and Wyoming, which enables commanders to focus on mission essential task requirements, warrior tasks and battle drills, including performing a hot-cold litter carry.

Soldiers with the 341st Medical Multifunction Battalion from Seagoville, Texas, load a patient onto a UH-72 Lakota helicopter during a medical evacuation training during the Golden Coyote Training Exercise at Camp Rapid, South Dakota, June 14, 2022. Golden Coyote is a three-phase, scenario-driven exercise conducted in South Dakota and Wyoming, which enables commanders to focus on mission essential task requirements, warrior tasks and battle drills, including performing a hot-cold litter carry.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jordan Utter and military working dog Gary, assigned to the 332nd Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, sit in a HH-60 Pave Hawk assigned to the 46th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron during helicopter acclimation training at an undisclosed location within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Jan. 23, 2023. Helicopter acclimation training ensures the MWD and their handler are comfortable operating in and around helicopters while in a controlled environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Taylor Bussick, a Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) student with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, awaits an approaching U.S. Army Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk at Saylor Creek Range in Grasmere, Idaho during Exercise Garnet Rattler April 28, 2022. Garnet Rattler is a joint training event between Marines, Soldiers and Airmen to train and qualify JTACs to be more efficient and lethal in a realistic training environment.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to 12th Combat Aviation Brigade conduct pre-flight checks on an AH-64D Apache longbow helicopter at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Sept. 28, 2022. 12th CAB is among other units assigned to V Corps, America's Forward Deployed Corps in Europe. They work alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-ready forces, execute joint and multinational training exercises, and retain command and control for all rotational and assigned units in the European Theater.

Soldiers with the German Armys 6th Battery, 345th Artillery Battalion, prepare to enter a U.S. Army UH-6 Blackhawk with 3rd Aviation Combat Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, during close-air support training at Townsend Bombing Range, Georgia, Feb. 21, 2024. German joint tactical air control and joint fire observers practiced coordinating aircraft, infiltrating and exfiltrating an area of operations with American military assets. Joint branch training with NATO allies ensures personnel utilize similar procedures and can operate together. Marine Corps

Georgia Army National Guardsmen assigned to the Glennville-based Alpha Company, 177th Brigade Engineer Battalion, and Georgian Defense Force soldiers assigned to 4th Mechanized Brigade and an U.S. Army flight medic assigned to 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division load a simulated casualty for transport on a UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter during a medical evacuation training scenario during Noble Partner 20 at Vaziani Training Area Sept. 12, 2020. Noble Partner is a cooperatively-led multinational training exercise between the Georgian Defense Forces (GDF) and U.S. Army Europe which enhances Georgian, regional ally, partner and U.S. forces readiness and interoperability to support regional stability.

Airmen with the Air Force Reserve Command aircrew for a C-17 Globemaster III work with Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation Regiment (1-147) of the Wisconsin National Guard on loading and unloading UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters June 10 at Sparta-Fort McCoy Airport at Fort McCoy. The 1-147th was set up with numerous Black Hawks and support equipment and personnel at the Sparta-Fort McCoy Airport throughout the first two weeks of June for annual training. The 1-147th and its UH-60s regularly support training operations at Fort McCoy as well as supporting distinguished visitor flying operations. Photo by Kevin Clark/Fort McCoy Multimedia-Visual Information Office

Loading on Black Hawk helicopters, Soldiers of Company F, 3rd Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Multi-National Division-Baghdad, prepare to fly to a nearby town and conduct a presence patrol, Sept. 18.

220524-N-DW158-1220 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 24, 2022) Sailors assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5, attached to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, collects a rope attached to an MH-60S Seahawk attached to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 during fast rope training on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). 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.

U.S. Army Paratroopers participate in an airborne jump from UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters into Sicily Drop Zone at Fort Bragg, N.C. on Apr. 28, 2022. Many paratroopers participating in the jump are a part of the Judge Advocate Generals Corps (JAG) and come together every year to celebrate Law Day, a national day set aside to celebrate the rule of law.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, observe a CH-53E Super Stallion lift a HIMARS launcher pod container during a helicopter support team training event at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 26, 2022. Landing Support Platoon, with CLB-22, conducted these external lift operations with a helicopter support team to improve their skills and ability to execute potential contingency missions in support of 2nd Marine Division and II Marine Expeditionary Force.

Soldiers assigned to Apex Company, 63rd Expeditionary Signal Battalion, 35th Signal Corps Brigade partnered with Soldiers From the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade to air insert two Terrestrial Transmission Line Of Sight radios (TRILOS) on June 7, 2022. During their training, Apex Company Soldiers conducted platoon validations on Command Post Nodes (CPN), Joint Network Nodes (JNN), and TRILOS to test their expeditionary signal communications and further support XVIII Airborne Corps and all its mission command systems. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Maxine Baen)

A U.S. Marine with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, gives a signal during fast rope training aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 5, 2022. Fast roping allows for fast inserts in a contested area. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

050902-F-1851B-003. Base: New Orleans State: Louisiana (LA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 92nd Security Forces Squadron, military working dogs fly in a UH-1N Huey with their handlers for training at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, Oct 25, 2022. The purpose behind the helicopter training was to expose the MWD's to new noises they might hear when boarding and flying on a helicopter.

Downed Aircraft Recovery Team Soldiers from Task Force Workhorse, 603rd Aviation Support Battalion, under Task Force Falcon, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, anticipate the arrival of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter to extract them from the mission site during a training exercise Jan. 3 at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan.

220707-N-TL141-1313 KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (July 7, 2022) - U.S. Army and Indian Marine Commandos Special Operations Forces extract via a U.S. Army Chinook 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.

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Two team leads from the 320th Special Tactics Squadron from Kadena Air Base, Japan, discuss the upcoming mission before boarding an HH-60G Pave Hawk here March 15. The 320th STS has combat controllers, pararescuemen and special operations weather teams to go anywhere and set up forward operating locations and impromptu runways.

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 2d Marines, conduct a long-range insertion of more than 800 miles during Alert Contingency Marine Air-Ground Task Force Exercise from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma on Okinawa to mainland Japan, June 9, 2022. III Marine Expeditionary Force executed these actions as part of a series of integrated no-notice drills to maintain a high state of readiness and demonstrate U.S. resolve to maintain regional security. 3/2 is forward-deployed under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as a part of the Unit Deployment Program.

Armed with 5.56mm M4 Carbines, soldiers with "A" Company, 2nd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR), board CH47 Chinook helicopters at Kandahar Army Airfield, during a search for Taliban fighters in support of ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Kandahar Army Air Field Country: Afghanistan (AFG)

U.S. Army pilots from the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade transport service members in the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina in a UH-60 Black Hawk at Kasarna Manjaca, Dobrnja, Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 17, 2022. Guard members assigned to the State Medical Detachment and 1-169th Aviation Regiment, Maryland Army National Guard, trained alongside active duty Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, and the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina soldiers in tactics, aviation, medical, and non-commissioned officer development. The Maryland National Guard will celebrate 20 years of partnership with the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina through the National Guard Bureaus State Partnership Program next year. (Maryland Army National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Jasmine Mathews).

Soldiers attached to the 101st Resolute Support Sustainment Brigade from the 1034th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, Iowa National Guard and 10th Mountain, 2-14 Infantry Battalion, Ghost Forward Support Company load onto a Chinook helicopter to head out and execute missions across the Combined Joint Operations Area- Afghanistan

Royal Thai Armed Forces exit CH-47 Chinook helicopters, during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 23-01 at Pohakuloa Training Grounds, Hawaii, Oct 29, 2022. Americas oldest treaty ally in Southeast Asia arrived at PTA for JPMRC 23-01, the first combat training center for the Indo-Pacific region.

Senior Airman Ty Sarno, 66th Rescue Squadron special missions aviator, conducts pre-flight inspections on a HH-60G Pave Hawk combat search and rescue (CSAR) helicopter before a training mission April 28, 2022, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. Throughout the Air Force SMAs execute tasks other than piloting the aircraft, including acting as flight engineer, loadmaster, aerial gunner, navigator, weapons system specialist, electronic warfare officer, radio operator, sensor operator and combat systems officer.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, grabs a rope 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.

NEW YORK (May 24, 2022) Sailors assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7 complete fast rope exercises from an MH-60S (Sea Hawk) helicopter, during an aviation demonstration at Miller Field, Staten Island, N.Y., to raise Navy awareness during Navy Recruiting Commands Swarm New York evolution in conjunction with Fleet Week New York (FWNY) 2022. Held nearly every year since 1984, it is the citys celebration of the sea services. This year marks the 34th year. FWNY provides an opportunity for the citizens of New York City and the surrounding tri-state area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as see firsthand the latest capabilities of todays maritime services. (U.S. Navy photography by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Roan Smith/Released)

U.S. Army Soldiers load a simulated patient on to a New Jersey National Guard UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter during a combat lifesaver course run by the Medical Simulation Training Center on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, April 14, 2022. The Medical Simulation Training Center provides realistic medical training to both medical and non-medical Soldiers in the Active, Reserve and National Guard, and provide hands-on instruction on the latest battlefield trauma and critical care techniques.

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor (VMM) Squadron 362 (Reinforced), 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare a UH-1Y Venom for flight during Realistic Urban Training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, June 7, 2022. The purpose of RUT is to enhance the integration and collective capability of the MEU's command air, ground and logistics elements and prepare the 13th MEU to meet the nation's crisis response needs during its upcoming overseas deployment.

The Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration takes place during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. The MAGTF Demo displays the coordinated use of close-air support, artillery and infantry forces, and provides a visual representation of how the Marine Corps operates. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

U.S. Army AH-64 Apache helicopters assigned to 2nd Battalion, 25th Aviation Regiment, 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division conduct routine checks, and refuel as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center rotation 23-01 in Hawaii, Nov. 1, 2022. JPMRC 23-01 is a regional combat training center rotation that builds combat readiness in America's Pacific Division and is a key way the Army forces engage in a joint environment with regional allies and partners.

060307-N-4374S-008. Base: Manama Country: Bahrain (BHR) Scene Major Command Shown: HM-15

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division, load a CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, while they conduct an air-insertion during Resolute Dragon 22 on Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 5, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral 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.

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division, load a CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, while they conduct an air-insertion during Resolute Dragon 22 on Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 5, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral 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.

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, assembles a tactical aviation ground refueling system (TAGRS) during a refueling mission at a forward arming and refueling point located at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Calif., July 29, 2022. Marine Forces Reserve is using ITX 4-22 to exercise Force Design 2030 initiatives such as EABO. Marine Aircraft Wing 41 is providing forward sustainment to their AH-1Z and UH-1Y helicopters, which extends their range from a 130NM combat radius to 350NM, effectively tripling their area of influence. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by. Ryan Schmid)

DM-SC-87-12120. Base: Beirut Country: Lebanon (LBN)

U.S. Marines with Foxtrot Co., 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, escort an injured U.S. Army AH-64 pilot during exercise Gunslinger 22 in Salina, Kansas, June 23, 2022. Exercise Gunslinger 22 is a joint exercise with the Kansas Air National Guard and U.S. Marine Corps designed to increase aircraft control and training for potential real-world contingencies.

040414-A-1526R-023. Base: Las Calderas Country: Dominican Republic (DOM)

Lt. Gen. R. Scott Dingle, the U.S. Army Surgeon General and Commanding General of U.S. Army Medical Command, recently visited Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, on Sept. 23, 2022, during a battlefield circulation. He also met with Soldiers of 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) and the 531st Hospital Center, to discuss operational readiness and partnerships with surrounding medical centers.

020411-A-8359B-066. Base: Bird International Airport Country: Antigua And Barbuda (ATG) Scene Major Command Shown: USSOUTHCOM

Soldiers with the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and with the Brazilian army prepare to travel in CH-47 Chinook helicopters in preparation to fly out to the training area of the Joint Readiness Training Center August 12, 2022.The purpose of this training is to allow the two forces to conduct large scale operations on a decisive action battlefield against a near-peer threat with multi-domain capabilities.

Competitors participate in various warrior tasks during the 2022 National Guard Bureau Region 2 Best Warrior Competition, held May 17-20, 2022, at Camp Dawson, Kingwood, West Virginia. The Best Warrior Competition is a physically and mentally challenging three-day competition that tests competitors on a wide range of technical and tactical skills relevant to todays combat operating environment. Region 2 consists of competitors from Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional winners from across the nation will advance to compete at the national-level competition this summer.

Soldiers of the German Armed Forces, taken at Camp Castor in Gao, 12.04.2022., Gao, Mali, Africa

Members of the French Armed Forces board an MV-22B Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 266 during French-Caribbean exercise Caraibes 22 at Guadeloupe, June 15, 2022. Caraibes 22 is a French-led, large-scale, joint-training exercise in the Caribbean involving naval, air, and land assets from the French, U.S., and regional forces focused on responding to simulated-natural disasters. VMM-266 is a subordinate unit to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, which is the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

Paratroopers assigned to 1st Squadron (Airborne), 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne) board a CH-47 Chinook, provided by 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, for an air assault mission at the 7th Army Joint Multinational Training Command's Hohenfels Training Area, Germany, March 19, 2014.

Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team engage in various mission durian Operation Nakoa Fleek in Schofield Barracks, HI. Operation NAKOA FLEEK is a two-week multi-echelon exercise designed to validate the Brigades Capability Set Integration (CSI), train and certify lethal companies, troops, and batteries, and exercise the Warriors sustainment capacity in a dynamic and complex battlefield against a thinking and reacting enemy.

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, load ordnance onto an AH-1W Super Cobra during a forward arming and refueling point exercise on Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 04, 2022. A FARP is a point of operation used for fueling and rearming an aircraft outside of a forward operating base. 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.

IMPERIAL BEACH, Calif. (April 21, 2016) Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technicians, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 11 (EODMU 11), fast-rope out of an MH-60S Seahawk, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23 (HSC 23), during a helicopter rope suspension training (HRST). During HRST, EODMU 11 members practice casting, repelling and fast-roping techniques during the daytime and then at night to maintain the certifications necessary for the EOD rate.

Troops from the Norwegian Home Guard and Minnesota National Guard Support Troops fly in UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopters from the Minnesota Army National Guard 2nd Battalion 147th Assault Helicopter Battalion at Camp Ripley Training Center in Little Falls, Minnesota, on February 8th, 2024. The flights are provided as an aerial tour of the training area after the completion of training during the 51st Norwegian Reciprocal Troop Exchange.

Acting Secretary of the Air Force F. Whitten Peters visited Luke Air Force Base (AFB), Arizona for a better understanding of the issues involved in the renewal of the Barry M. Goldwater range. Here, F. Whitten Peters arrives back at Luke AFB after touring the Goldwater range. Base: Luke Air Force Base State: Arizona (AZ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Washington Army National Guard Spc. John Stauffer, a public affairs specialist with the 122nd Theater Public Affairs Support Element, 96th Troop Command, photographs officer candidates boarding a CH-47 Chinook during Officer Candidate School Phase III on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., July 17, 2022. Public affairs specialists are the enlisted communications experts, fulfilling the Army's obligation to keep the American people informed through news articles, photography, videography, and social media.

WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY - Aircraft from the 106th Rescue Wing depart F.S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base in preparation of Hurricane Sandy. The aircraft are repositioned out of the storm track and are prepare to return for recovery response operations. The 106th Rescue Wings mission is to provide worldwide Personnel Recovery, Combat Search and Rescue Capability, Expeditionary Combat Support, and Civil Search and Rescue support to Federal and State authorities. The unit provides Personnel Recovery to the state of New York and deployed operations that we are tasked to support.

020929-A-3497H-027. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Khowst Country: Afghanistan (AFG)

Royal Thai Armed Forces exit CH-47 Chinook helicopters, during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 23-01 at Pohakuloa Training Grounds, Hawaii, Oct 29, 2022. Americas oldest treaty ally in Southeast Asia arrived at PTA for JPMRC 23-01, the first combat training center for the Indo-Pacific region.

Special Warfare Airmen with the New Jersey Air National Guards 227th Air Support Operations Squadron fast rope from a UH-1Y Venom helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 773 during training on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Oct. 10, 2019.

Members of the 82nd Airborne Division inspect an Iraqi MIL Mi-24 Hind-D assault helicopter abandoned during Operation Desert Storm.. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Iraq(IRQ)

Lt. Gen. James Jacobson, Pacific Air Forces deputy commander, met with Airmen at the 33rd Rescue Squadron at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Aug. 19, 2022. While visiting the 33rd RQS, Jacobson learned firsthand about the importance of the squadrons mission, which is to conduct rescue operations in the region.

041008-F-1789V-001. Base: Indian Springs Af Auxiliary Fld State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force pararescuemen, assigned to the 52nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, are hoisted into a HH-60 Pave Hawk assigned to the 46th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron during a joint service hoist training with U.S. Army Medical Evacuation aircrew members assigned to the 11th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade on July 6, 2022 at an undisclosed location. Joint service training allows for the sharing of best practices for patient and medic extraction and infiltration.

U.S. Army Soldiers with the Hunter Army Airfield-based 4th Battalion, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade and the Brunswick-based Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 118th Field Artillery Regiment conduct sling-load operations during the Exportable Combat Training Capabilities exercise at Fort Stewart, Georgia, June 14, 2022. XCTC is the U.S. Army National Guards program of record that enables brigade combat teams to achieve the trained Platoon readiness necessary to deploy, fight, and win battles throughout the world. The XCTC exercise will include approximately 4,400 brigade personnel from throughout Georgia.

A U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Michael Gesford, 26th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron HC-130J Combat King II loadmaster, watches an HH-60G Pave Hawk receive fuel from a HC-130J Combat King II during a Helicopter Air-to-Air Refueling (HAAR) mission within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, November 4, 2022. The primary mission of the Pave Hawk is to conduct day and night personnel recovery operations in hostile environments enabling the recovery of isolated personnel during conflict. HAAR operations act as a force extender, keeping rescue assets in the air longer.

030205-M-5266H-005. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base State: Al Ahmadi Country: Kuwait (KWT)

020411-F-3805C-010. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH 2002 Base: Prince Sultan Air Base Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

DN-SC-87-00538. Base: USS Saratoga (CV 60) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

Virginia National Guard aviation crews provide air support for an Infantry Advanced Leaders Course, taught by cadre assigned to the 183rd Regiment, Regional Training Institute, March 19, 2018, at Fort Pickett, Virginia. Flight crews provided an overview on how to load and unload a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter before taking the more than 30 students in attendance on a familiarization flight around the Fort Pickett area before dropping them near the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility were the infantrymen conducted their culminating exercise, assaulting their way through the village and capturing their target.

A member of a flight crew waves as a UH-N1 Huey takes off during the Local Integrated Response Plan public display Sept. 12, 2022, in Harlowtown, Mont. The LIRP is an open display of capability to the public and included a UH-N1 Huey helicopter landing on a football field. Members of the Harlowtown community were able to talk with personnel, sit inside the armed rescue vehicles and helicopter and ask questions about the security provided by Malmstrom Air Force Base.

Members of the 571st Medical Company, Fort Carson, Colorado, perform pre-flight procedures on a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter before take-off from Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia. The 571st is part of the coalition force here to support Operation SOUTHERN WATCH, a military effort to enforce the no-fly and no-drive zone in Southern Iraq. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Base: Prince Sultan Air Base Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

POLAND Task Force Saber is currently conducting single-ship Aerial Gunnery in Poland, Tables IV-VI. This is the first time U.S. Army Apache Aerial Gunnery has been conducted on this range. During Aerial Gunnery, Apache crews will engage a number of targets utilizing different weapon systems. The unit incorporated Polish Joint Terminal Air Controllers (JTACs) into their exercise. This training increases the units lethality and readiness with the Polish armed forces.

U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo travels to the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan via helicopter on March 23, 2020.

An Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter comes in to land beside a CH-47 Chinook helicopter at the Camp Davis airfield, near Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune, during the joint services exercise SOLID SHIELD '89. Subject Operation/Series: SOLID SHIELD '89 Base: Camp Davis Air Field State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers and first responders-rescuers with the South Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (SC-HART) conduct aerial-rescue training in mountainous terrain, Table Rock area, South Carolina, Aug. 22-26, 2022. The event included a variety of training scenarios emphasizing survivor extractions from mountain slopes and tops, as well as aquatic rescues from rivers and lakes. In addition, air crews and rescuers performed refresher and proficiency training for the ongoing hurricane season. SC-HART is a collaborative effort between the South Carolina Army National Guard and State Urban Search and Rescue Task Force (SC-TF1) under the direction of the Office of the State Fire Marshal, South Carolina Emergency Management Division. The South Carolina Army National Guard contributes to the program with instructors, crews, support personnel, and UH-60 Blackhawk and LUH-72 Lakota helicopters; all military personnel and aircrafts are assigned to 59th Aviation Troop Command,

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to load ordnance into an AH-1W Super Cobra during a forward arming and refueling point exercise on Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 04, 2022 A FARP is a point of operation used for fueling and rearming an aircraft outside of a forward operating base. 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.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Michael Soto accompanies litter-bearers as they load an injured Marine into a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during a medical evacuation in Garmsir, in AfghanistanÄôs Helmand province, Jan. 30. Soto, a native of Lake Villa, Ill., has been with 9th Engineer Support Battalion for the past year and is the primary caregiver to the Marines of Bridge Platoon as they serve on the front lines of Afghanistan. Soto is a hospital corpsman with 9th ESB, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division, load a CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, while they conduct an air-insertion during Resolute Dragon 22 on Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 5, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral 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.

Marines from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 (Reinforced), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, deliver ready-to-eat rations with a CH-53E Super Stallion to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Jan. 22. The 22nd MEU delivered food and supplies in support of humanitarian assistance and relief operations for victims of the Jan. 12 earthquake.

240129-N-LR905-3265LITTLE FALLS, Minn. (Jan. 29, 2024) - U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technicians assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 2 conduct Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques (HRST) training in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter with Minnesota National Guards 2nd Battalion, 147th Aviation Regiment as part of Snow Crab Exercise 24-1. SNOWCRABEX is an annual exercise designed to test and evaluate U.S. Navy EOD and Navy Divers capabilities and equipment in a simulated arctic environment and improve combat effectiveness. Navy EOD and Navy Divers are part of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Force (NECF), enabling the U.S. Navy Fleet by clearing and protecting the battlespace.

A soldier of the 1ST Battalion, 508th Infantry (Airborne), stands by as a UH-60 Black Hawk (Blackhawk) helicopter takes off during a combined arms live-fire exercise. Base: Fort Kobbe Country: Panama(PAN)

U.S. Marines with Maritime Special Purpose Force (MSPF), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conduct Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques (HRST) Masters' course at Stone Bay, on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 29, 2022. HRST prepares Marines for helicopter-borne insertion and extraction operations as well as certifies Marines as HRST Masters allowing them to oversee HRST operations with their respective units. The HRST Masters Course is one of several Expeditionary Operations Training Group (EOTG) taught courses that the Marines and Sailors of the MEU receive as they prepare to deploy next year.

A U.S. Navy HH-60 from the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. Carl Vincent loads U.S. Army soldiers from the 82nd Airborne in support of Operation Unified Response in Port au Prince, Haiti on Jan. 17, 2010. Haiti was rocked by an earthquake on Jan. 12, 2010.

An Airman from the 41st Helicopter Maintenance Unit attaches a panel to the tail of an HH-60G Pave Hawk, Jan. 7, 2016, at Moody Air Force Base, Ga. The 41st HMU works 24/7 to ensure aircraft are ready to fly at a moments notice.

New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers, with the 1-150th Assault Helicopter Battalion, conduct sling load training on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., March 29, 2021. Sling load operation training builds and maintains readiness for transporting cargo tactically for rapid crisis response scenarios.

U.S. Marines assigned to 3rd Landing Support Battalion prepare for an external lift during an integrated training exercise at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 26, 2023. Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 267 and Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 465 conducted integrated training as a proof of concept for future distributed operations.

of 3