JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. —
The Department of the Air Force has selected Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, as the preferred location to replace the installation’s fleet of 26 UH-1N “Huey” helicopters with 26 HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters.
The primary mission of Air Force rotary aircraft in the National Capitol Region is to conduct response operations for US. leadership during a crisis or contingency.
“The UH-1N has been a storied part of Joint Base Andrews for decades and has enabled us to respond 24/7 to a crisis or contingency in the nation’s capital,” said Col. Karl W. Seekamp, 316th Wing and installation commander. “We’re fortunate to be chosen as the newest home of the HH-60W, which will modernize our fleet and enable our vital mission for decades to come.”
In addition to transitioning current UH-1N rotary wing aircraft within the 1st Helicopter Squadron, Andrews will stand up the 5th Helicopter Squadron as the first unit on the installation slated to receive the HH-60W.
Established in 1969, the 1st Helicopter Squadron will continue to operate the UH-1N as the installation modernizes its fleet to ensure Andrews can sustain its mission long-term. The UH-1 variant has been flown from Andrews since 1970.
The arrival of the HH-60W while the UH-1N is still operational allows for continuous support to Joint Base Andrews’ no-fail mission. Together, the two squadrons will provide contingency response operations vital to national security and priority airlift for civil and military leadership.
"As we stand up the 5th Helicopter Squadron and transition to the HH-60W Jolly Green II, our priority will always be the safety of both our aircrews and the National Capital Region community we fly over every day,” said Col. Kevin Geoffroy, 316th Wing operations group commander and HH-60W pilot. “We will execute our no-fail national security missions, while operating the safest, most reliable aircraft possible to protect those we support, as well as our neighbors and families on the ground."
The HH-60W provides significant increases in payload capacity, maximum airspeed and mission range, enhancing the Air Force’s ability to meet mission requirements and provide responsive support throughout the National Capital Region and beyond.
The Air Force anticipates the HH-60W fleet at Joint Base Andrews will achieve full operational capability in 2030.