HH-60W Jolly Green II delivered to Italy-based USAF squadron
The combat search and rescue aircraft is the last one required for the 56th Rescue Generation Squadron to complete its transition to the new platform
The 56th Rescue Generation Squadron (RGS) of the US Air Force (USAF) has received delivery of its final HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter, completing its transition to the new platform, which replaces the aging HH-60G Pave Hawk.
The aircraft was delivered to Aviano Air Base in Italy, from which the 56th RGS conducts and supports search and rescue (SAR) missions.
The HH-60W features upgraded avionics and communications equipment, extended fuel capacity, and better survivability systems compared with its predecessor, allowing it to operate more effectively in the field.
USAF has been expanding its use of the HH-60W since the aircraft type achieved initial operational capability. Another unit of the same type was recently deployed to Kadena Air Base in Japan, for use by the 55th RGS, who are based there.
Oliver Cuenca
Oliver Cuenca is a Junior Editor at AirMed&Rescue. He was previously a News and Features Journalist for the rail magazine IRJ until 2021, and studied MA Magazine Journalism at Cardiff University. His favourite helicopter is the AW169 – the workhorse of the UK air ambulance sector! He also led the creation of Waypoint: The AirMed&Rescue podcast, serving as its Production Editor and co-host.