Naval Helicopter Operations

Dramatic images of naval helicopters in flight, showcasing their versatility and support roles during military exercises and operations at sea.

220801-N-DW158-1069 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 1, 2022) Cmdr. Nick Cunningham, commanding officer of the Saberhawks of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77 prepares to fly over the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in an MH-60R Sea Hawk during a change of command ceremony in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 1. During the ceremony Cunningham transferred command of HSM 77 to Cmdr. Blade Schallenberger. 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.

220801-N-DW158-1069 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 1, 2022) Cmdr. Nick Cunningham, commanding officer of the Saberhawks of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77 prepares to fly over the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in an MH-60R Sea Hawk during a change of command ceremony in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 1. During the ceremony Cunningham transferred command of HSM 77 to Cmdr. Blade Schallenberger. 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-SC-89-02718. Subject Operation/Series: TEAM WORK 88 Base: USS Forrestal (CV 59) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

970620-N-3149V-014. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ '97 Base: Uss Denver (LPD 9) Scene Major Command Shown: HM-15

DN-ST-88-03701. Base: Persian Gulf

An MH-60S Knighthawk, attached to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, transports ammunition during an ammunition on-load with USNS Medgar Evers (T-AKE 13), March 31, 2023. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting routine operations and training in order to maintain readiness. As the first-in-class ship of Ford-class aircraft carriers, CVN 78 represents a generational leap in the U.S. Navy's capacity to project power on a global scale.

220407-N-JX182-2012 PHILIPPINE SEA (April 7, 2022) Engineman 2nd Class Ivin Tyson, from Middletown, New York, removes chocks and chains from an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to the Wildcards of Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) Squadron 23, assigned to the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Jackson (LCS 6), as it prepares for lift-off aboard Jackson. Jackson, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

230118-N-MD461-1356 PACIFIC OCEAN (Jan. 18, 2022) A Sailor prepares to attach cargo to an MH-60S Sea Hawk, assigned to the Black Knights” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4 during an ammunition transfer between Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Vinson is currently underway conducting routine maritime operations.

221020-N-MW880-1033 ADRIATIC SEA (Oct. 20, 2022) An MH-60S Knighthawk, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, conducts vertical replenishment with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during the NATO-led vigilance activity Neptune Strike 22.2 (NEST 22.2), in the Adriatic Sea, Oct. 20, 2022. NEST 22.2 is the natural evolution of NATO's ability to integrate the high-end maritime warfare capabilities of a carrier strike group to support the defense of the alliance in Europe.

110629-N-GA722-180ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 29, 2011) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28 lowers a Sailor to the deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) during a vertical replenishment. Nitze is conducting sea trials along the East Coast before making a port visit in Maine for Fourth of July.

US Navy Aviation Ordnanceman Second Class Wayne Jones and US Navy Aviation Ordnanceman John Varner hook innert ammunitions to a HS-60 Seahawk helicopter from Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Seven (HS-7), on the flight deck of USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) during a vertical replenishment at sea. 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)

220717-N-WI365-1281 SOUTH CHINA SEA (July 17, 2022) An MH-60S Sea Hawk attached to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 prepares to land on the flight deck of the Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) as the guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 67) steams in the background. HSC 12, originally established as Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 2 on March 7, 1952, is the oldest active operational Navy helicopter squadron. 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.

120209-N-DR144-361 ARABIAN SEA (Feb. 9, 2012) MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HSC) 23 deliver supplies to the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) during a replenishment at sea. Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

U.S. Army AH-64 Apache assigned to 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, conducts flight operations aboard the USS Miguel Keith (ESB-5) off the coast of the Philippines during Balikatan 22, March 31, 2022. The Miguel Keith, a Lewis B. Puller-class Expeditionary Mobile Base Ship, is a highly flexible platform that provides logistics movement from sea to shore supporting a broad range of military operations. Balikatan 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 of 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.

Lynx Mk8 British Royal Navy

220103-N-PV401-1057 PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 3, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk, assigned to the Blue Hawks” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 78, prepares to land on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Jan. 3, 2022. Carl Vinson Carrier 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-ST-85-04037. Subject Operation/Series: INTENSE LOOK Country: Gulf Of Suez

DN-ST-89-02522. Base: USS Simpson (FFG 56)

A plane director holds the takeoff signal as a Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362 (HHH-362) CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter takes off from the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN-71). The ROOSEVELT is operating in the Adriatic as part of Operation Deny Flight. Subject Operation/Series: DENY FLIGHT Country: Adriatic Sea

A CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 261 (HMM-261) lands on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS SAIPAN (LHA-2) during Operation Sharp Edge. Marines of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU) are being sent to the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia, to augment security and evacuate U.S. and foreign nationals from the fighting between government and rebel forces. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

230329-N-WQ732-1023 CARIBBEAN SEA (March 29, 2023) - An MH-60R Seahawk, attached to the Jaguars” of Maritime Helicopter Strike Squadron (HSM 60), takes off from the flight deck of the Arleigh-Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) as the ship conducts flight operations, March 29. USS Farragut is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Destroyer Squadron 40/Commander, Task Force 45’s mission. The mission includes combined naval operations, partnership building and acting as a service provider to Joint Interagency Task Force South Mission by supporting counter illicit-drug trafficking in Central and South American waters.

220915-N-XN177-2037 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 15, 2022) - An AS-332 Super Puma helicopter delivers a load of supplies to amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) during a replenishment-at-sea with Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE 7) Sept. 15, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

A Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14 (HM-14) MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters flies overhead as the ocean minesweeper USS IMPERVIOUS (MSO-449) patrols the water as part of a minesweeping drill during Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Unknown

220521-O-NR876-691PHILIPPINE SEA (May 21, 2022) An MH-60S Seahawk helicopter, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21, detachment 8, lifts off the flight deck of the Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) with pallets of supplies attached to be transported to the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Sampson (DDG 102). Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A US NAVY CH-46D Sea Knight from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Six (HC-6) lifts ammunition from the flight deck of the nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73). The GEORGE WASHINGTON and the Nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65) are currently off the coast of Virginia performing an ammunitions transfer. Base: USS George Washington (CVN 73) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

A U.S. Air Force airman from the 23rd Special Tactics Squadron jumps out of the back of a MH-47 Chinook helicopter at Wynnehaven Beach, Fla., April 9, 2013. The 23rd STS partnered with 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) to conduct personnel recovery training using alternate infiltration and exfiltration techniques.

220706-N-DH616-0012 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 6, 2022) MH60R Jaguar 606” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 60 (HSM 60) lands on the flight deck of Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98). USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) is the flagship for Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG2), a multinational integrated task group that projects a constant and visible reminder of the Alliance’s solidarity and cohesion afloat and provides the Alliance with a continuous maritime capability to perform a wide range of tasks, including exercises and real-world operations in periods of crisis and conflict.

DN-ST-86-11425. Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

061110-N-0684R-058. Base: USS Preble (DDG 88) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

Sea of Japan (Sept. 28, 2022) Boatswains Mate Seaman Sarai Moreno, signals a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk assigned to the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade aboard Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) in the Sea of Japan on Sept. 28, 2022. Chancellorsville is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific and is assigned to Commander, Task Force 70, a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of its allies and partners in the region.

Members of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit advance across the flight deck of the amphibious transport dock USS AUSTIN (LPD-4) after rappelling from a Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 261 (HMM-261) CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter. The Marines are participating in a simulated tactical recovery of aircraft personnel (TRAP) mission. Country: Adriatic Sea

221102-N-EU502-3030 WESTERN PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 2, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 prepares to land aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Nov. 2, 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.

230406-N-WM182-1018 EAST CHINA SEA (April 6, 2023) A helicopter air-lifts supplies from the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE-11) to the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN-68) during a replenishment-at-sea. Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine 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.

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Nov. 2, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter carries supplies from the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Laramie (T-AO 203) to the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) during a replenishment-at-sea. The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) are deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

A Westland Wasp Mk.1, Series 2 & 2a (AH-12A) (1976-1981) rises at the designation of the aircraft deck officer of Hr.Ms. Tromp (1975-1999).

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 16, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the Raptors” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, flies towards the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). 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.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 5, 2024) Sailors assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Somerset (LPD 25) prepare to remove chocks and chains from a CH-53E Super Stallion, assigned to the White Knights of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), on the flight deck while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Feb. 5, 2024. Somerset and embarked elements of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit are conducting routine operations 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. Navy

GULF OF THAILAND (March 9, 2014) A U.S. Navy MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter from the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91) departs to aid in the search efforts of the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370. The flight had 227 passengers from 14 nations, mainly China, and 12 crew members. According to the Malaysia Airlines website, three Americans, including one infant, were also aboard.

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

220714-N-KD380-3036 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 14,2022) An MH-53E Sea Dragon, attached to the Blackhawks of Helicopter Mine Countermeasures squadron (HM) 15, 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.

An SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter of Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 46 (HSL-46) lands on the flight deck of the guided missile frigate USS DOYLE (FFG-39) duirng exercise BALTOPS '93. Subject Operation/Series: BALTOPS '93 Country: Baltic Sea

980922-N-2941Y-001. Base: Uss Detroit (AOE 4) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

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.

An MH-60S Seahawk helicopter attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, drops off ammo on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) in the Atlantic Ocean, Feb. 18. 2024. George Washington is conducting Tailored Ships Training Availability and Final Evaluation Problem (TSTA/FEP). TSTA prepares the ship and crew for full integration into a carrier strike group through a wide range of mission critical operations. Navy

120802-N-HB951-307 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 2, 2012) F/A-18 Hornets and Super Hornets assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2 conduct an air power demonstration over the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is en route to the United States to complete an eight-month change-of-homeport deployment during which it operated in the U.S. 5th, 6th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility.

A HH-60G Pave Hawk Helicopter is refueled by a 39th Rescue Squadron HC-130J Combat King II during a Turkey Shoot competition off the coast of Florida on June 16, 2022. During the competition aircrew members competed on skills such as aircraft weapons employment, helicopter air to air refueling, degraded navigation, degraded search, and confined hoisting.

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Feb. 15, 2013) An MH-60R Sea Hawk from the Raptors of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 assigned to the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) practices a hard right turn. John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

A flight deck crew member signals to the pilot of an SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter as it lands aboard the hospital ship USNS COMFORT (T-AH-20). The Comfort is en route to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Unknown

U.S. Air Force pararescuemen assigned to the 31st Rescue Squadron board an HH-60G Pave Hawk after completing a search and rescue training in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 13, 2022. After reaching the extraction point, PJs were lifted from the water via hoist back into the aircraft.

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Feb. 15, 2013) An MH-60R Sea Hawk from the Raptors of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 launches flares alongside the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

A CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter flies over the gulf after taking off from the amphibious assault ship USS TARAWA (LHA-1) during the combined Thai/U.S. joint exercise THALAY THAI '89. The helicopter is from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (HMM-163), the reinforced aviation combat element of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU). Subject Operation/Series: THALAY THAI '89 Country: Gulf Of Thailand

120804-N-YF306-280 RED SEA (Aug. 4, 2012) An SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42, Det. 8, departs the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81). Winston S. Churchill 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.

SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- NASA's Orion spacecraft floats in the Pacific Ocean after splashdown from its first flight test in Earth orbit. An H60-S Seahawk helicopter hovers above to communicate the spacecraft's location back to the USS Anchorage. NASA, the U.S. Navy and Lockheed Martin are coordinating efforts to recover Orion and secure the spacecraft in the well deck of the USS Anchorage. Orion completed a two-orbit, four-and-a-half hour mission, to test systems critical to crew safety, including the launch abort system, the heat shield and the parachute system. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program is leading the recovery efforts.

A civilian contractor embarked with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, catches a V-BAT drone after a flight aboard amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 9, 2022. The V-BAT is a platform with intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities that requires no launch equipment, making it a useful tool for expeditionary operations. The USS Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, are operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

DN-ST-88-09334. Base: USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

DN-SC-87-01522. Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Jan. 6, 2019) A U.S. Marine with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa 20.1, Marine Forces Europe and Africa, observes the French navy amphibious assault ship BPC Dixmude (L9015) in the Atlantic Ocean, Jan. 6, 2020. This training event tests an operational concept called Amphibious Maritime Basing and Interoperability, and will help streamline practices and procedures between U.S. naval forces and the French, enhancing the French and American capability to respond rapidly and efficiently to potential future crises. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a rotational force deployed to conduct crisis-response and theater-security operations in Europe and Africa.

A Marine Corps AH-1W Cobra assigned to 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducts flight operations aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge, in the Arabian Sea, Nov. 16, 2015. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

060327-N-4772B-125. Complete Scene Caption: Onboard the US Navy (USN) Dock Landing Ship USS HARPES FERRY (LSD 49) a USN Landing Signal Enlisted (LSE) is braced by a US Marine Corps (USMC) Combat Cargo Marine as they prepare for the landing of a USMC CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter, while conducting timing rehearsals in support of Exercise FOAL EAGLE 2006. The Exercise is a joint and combined field training exercise conducted by Combined Forces Command / US Forces Korea components focused on ground maneuvers, air, naval, expeditionary and special operations. USN Ships assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF-76), and embarked elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are participating in the 45th FOAL EAGLE Exercise together with forces from the Republic of Korea (ROK). Subject Operation/Series: FOAL EAGLE Base: USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49)

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Jan. 22, 2013) Sailors hook cargo nets to an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during a replenishment-at-sea. John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

A U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773 hovers above 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.

Two Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 11 (HC-11) HH-46D Sea Knight helicopters assigned to the replenishment oiler USS KANSAS CITY (AOR-3) ferry supplies from the KANSAS CITY to the aircraft carrier USS RANGER (CV-61) during a vertical replenishment. The RANGER and its battle group are on station in the Persian Gulf region following Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Unknown

DN-ST-89-08961. Base: USS Lexington (AVT 16)

A flight of four CH-46E Sea Knights fly-by the USS TARAWA (LHA-1) portside, stern to bow during DEEP STRIKE 97. Subject Operation/Series: DEEP STRIKE '97 Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

220725-N-AO868-1128 ADRIATIC SEA (July 25, 2022) An MH 60S Seahawk helicopter assigned to the Proud Warriors of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 72, conducts a vertical replenishment on the focsle of the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG 56) in the Adriatic Sea, July 25, 2022. San Jacinto 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.

220804-N-XN177-1094 PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 4, 2022) - A CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) hovers behind amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 4, 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.

120709-N-OY799-330PACIFIC OCEAN (July 9, 2012) Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Robert Chirdon helps Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Miranda Plaza attach cargo nets to an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 on aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during an ammunition onload. John C. Stennis is conducting sustainment exercises off the coast of California to maintain mission readiness.

220829-N-XN177-1180 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Aug. 29, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 delivers a load of supplies to amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) during a vertical replenishment with fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198), Aug. 29, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

220623-N-YN807-1288 PACIFIC OCEAN - A Chilean helicopter assigned to Helicopter Attack Squadron (HA-1) prepares to land aboard Zumwalt-class Destroyer Michael Monsoor (DDG-1001) en route to Hawaii to participate in Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, June 23, 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 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.

DN-SC-86-03633. Base: USS Saratoga (CV 60) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

DF-ST-88-03760. Subject Operation/Series: SOLID SHIELD Base: USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20)

U.S. Navy Reserve members assigned to the Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 1A (MSRON), San Diego, California, participate in the personnel recovery exercise Bull Shark, Port Djibouti, Djibouti, June 21, 2022. Exercise Bull Shark is a personnel recovery exercise involving members of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and the European Union Naval Force aimed to strengthen interoperability between like-minded partners in the region; members of the Spanish Armed Forces and Djibouti Armed Forces also participated in the exercise this iteration.

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

Members of the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) board a Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 3 (HS-3) SH-60F Sea Hawk on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN-71). The Marines are going to participate in a training exercise in Italy. The ROOSEVELT is operating in the Adriatic in support of Operation Deny Flight. Subject Operation/Series: DENY FLIGHT Country: Adriatic Sea

A Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 32 (HSL-32) SH-2F Seasprite helicopter comes in to land on the flight deck of the destroyer USS O'BANNON (DD-987) as the ship passes through the Straits of Magellan en route to Punte Arenas, Chile, during the multinational naval exercise Unitas XXXII. Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS XXXII Base: Valparaiso Country: Chile(CHL)

DN-ST-85-04017. Subject Operation/Series: INTENSE LOOK Base: USS Shreveport (LPD 12) Country: Gulf Of Suez

THE MINCH (Oct. 5, 2022) Lt. j.g. Cody Fulton observes an MH-60R Seahawk helicopter, attached to the Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 79, land on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) during flight quarters, Oct. 5, 2022. Exercise Joint Warrior 22-2 is a U.K.-hosted, multilateral training exercise designed to provide NATO and allied forces with a unique multi-warfare environment to prepare for global operations. Roosevelt is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

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

DN-SC-87-10760. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

A U.S. Navy MH-60S Seahawk assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 28 lands aboard amphibious landing docking ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), May 15, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

A crewman watches from the open door of his SH-3 Sea King as the helicopter passes by the destroyer USS DEYO (DD-989) during exercise BALTOPS '93. Subject Operation/Series: BALTOPS '93 Country: Baltic Sea

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.

Three SH-3 Sea King Helicopters of the Naval Air Station Key West Operations Maintenance Department's Search and Rescue unit flying in formation off the Atlantic coast. Base: Key West State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DN-ST-85-04058. Subject Operation/Series: INTENSE LOOK Country: Egypt (EGY)

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 462, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, flies to the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in the Pacific Ocean, Feb. 13, 2024. HMH-462 transported passengers from Naval Air Station North Island, Coronado, to the Abraham Lincoln, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, and provided assault support for routine operations in the Third Fleet area of responsibility. Landing on an aircraft carrier was a rare opportunity for the Marines of HMH-462, as CH-53E Super Stallions deploy at sea aboard amphibious assault ships. Marine Corps

220911-N-YD731-1002 ADRIATIC SEA (Sep. 11, 2022) An MH-60S Nighthawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, transports cargo during a replenishment-at-sea for the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), Sep. 11, 2022. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of CSG-10 and the GHWBCSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, VFA-103, VFA-86, VFA-136, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, VAW-121, HSC-5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 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.

070122-N-3729H-109. Base: USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Scene Major Command Shown: VAW-112

An SH-60B Seahawk helicopter of Light Helicopter Squadron 38 (HSL-38) conducts a helicopter in-flight refueling (HIFR) exercise with the Spruance class destroyer USS CONOLLY (DD-979) during Operation Support Democracy off the coast of Haiti. Subject Operation/Series: SUPPORT DEMOCRACY Country: Caribbean Sea

The SpaceX Crew Dragon Endeavour spacecraft is lifted onto the SpaceX GO Navigator recovery ship shortly after it landed with NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley onboard in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Pensacola, Florida, Sunday, Aug. 2, 2020. The Demo-2 test flight for NASA's Commercial Crew Program was the first to deliver astronauts to the International Space Station and return them safely to Earth onboard a commercially built and operated spacecraft. Behnken and Hurley returned after spending 64 days in space.

A CH-46 Sea Knight from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 11 (HC 11) departs from the aircraft carrier USS KITTY HAWK (CV 62) after delivering a load of supplies from the ammunition ship USS PYRO (AE 24) during underway replenishment operations. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

220919-N-XN177-1043 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 19, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter takes off from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 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 crew member aboard a Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 8 (HS-8) SH-3H Sea King helicopter strafes the water with machine gun fire from a 7.62mm M-60D machine gun during a training mission. The Sea King is based aboard the aircraft carrier USS CONSTELLATION (CV-64). Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

220715-A-JW340-1010 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 15, 2022) A CH-47 Chinook, attached to the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, completes deck landing qualification (DLQ) training aboard Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. 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.

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a Sailor assigned to USS New Orleans (LPD 18) prepare for fast roping during a day and night fast roping exercise aboard New Orleans 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.

021102-N-3235P-503. Base: USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79)

A close-up view of an SH-2F Seasprite light airborne multi-purpose system (LAMPS) helicopter as the pilot prepares to land it aboard the destroyer USS THORN (DD-988) during Operation Unitas XXV. Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS XXV Country: Unknown

An SD-1D aircraft spotting dolly is used to maneuver an SH-3H Sea King from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 8 on a lowered elevator aboard the aircraft carrier USS CONSTELLATION (CV 64). On the right is an S-3A Viking aircraft. The carrier is participating in Fleet Exercise 85. Base: USS Constellation (CV 64) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

A U.S. Navy MH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 85, hoists U.S. Air Force pararescuemen, assigned to the 320th Special Tactics Squadron, above water during water operations training at White Beach Naval Facility, Japan, May 4, 2022. The training tested maritime search and rescue capabilities as well as familiarity with combat rubber raiding craft for the pararescuemen.

A Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 8 (HC-8) UH-46 Sea Knight helicopter flies off from the amphibious assault ship USS GUADALCANAL (LPH-7) after delivering supplies during vertical replenishment operations. The material will be transported ashore for use by Marines taking part in Operation Provide Comfort, an Allied effort to aid Kurdish refugees who fled the forces of Saddam Hussein in northern Iraq. Subject Operation/Series: PROVIDE COMFORT Country: Turkey (TUR)

110226-N-RC734-088PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 26, 2011) Members of the Scan Eagle team position the Skyhook arrested recovery system over the flight deck to remove a Scan Eagle unmanned aerial vehicle aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Comstock (LSD 45). The Skyhook system allows Scan Eagle to operate from several platforms, including forward fields, mobile vehicles and small ships. Scan Eagle is a runway independent, long-endurance, unmanned aerial vehicle system designed to provide multiple surveillance, reconnaissance data, and battlefield damage assessment missions. Comstock is part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and is underway in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

An S-3A Viking aircraft comes in for a landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal (CV-59) during exercise Team Work '88. Subject Operation/Series: TEAM WORK '88 Country: North Atlantic Ocean

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