Joint Base Andrews to receive 26 HH-60W helicopters, stand up 5th Helicopter Squadron

Published Aug 12, 06:49 PM UTC

Joint Base Andrews (JBA) in Maryland will receive 26 HH-60W 'Whiskey' combat search and rescue helicopters, replacing its aging fleet of 26 UH-1N 'Huey' helicopters. The transition includes the addition of 60 active-duty positions and the establishment of the 5th Helicopter Squadron on August 27, which will be the first unit to operate the new aircraft. The 1st Helicopter Squadron will continue flying Hueys until it converts to the HH-60W. Both squadrons support contingency response, civil authority defense, and senior leader transportation. The announcement follows a July emergency landing of a Huey due to mechanical vibrations. The Air Force cited the Huey fleet's age (49-59 years) and lack of speed, range, and lift capacity as reasons for the replacement. The HH-60W offers significant improvements in payload, speed, and range, with full operational capability expected by 2030.