Joint Base Andrews received its first HH-60W Jolly Green II on 2 November, beginning the U.S. Air Force’s transition from UH-1N Hueys for rotary-wing missions in the National Capital Region. The helicopter will initially join the 5th Helicopter Squadron, which is responsible for establishing the new fleet and training personnel. The 1st Helicopter Squadron will continue flying UH-1Ns to maintain the base’s round-the-clock national-security mission during the phased changeover.
The Air Force’s new helicopter can fly faster and farther and has nearly three times the airlift capability of the UH-1N, according to Joint Base Andrews. The aircraft will support contingency response and senior-leader missions in the region. The 1st Helicopter Squadron has operated UH-1Ns since 1971; three aircraft that served during the Vietnam War remain in service.
Andrews activated the 5th Helicopter Squadron in August in preparation for the transition. Designated airmen are scheduled to begin familiarisation training with certified Sikorsky aircrews in 2027. The official arrival report does not specify when the rest of the fleet will be delivered or provide a full conversion schedule.