IOC for Jolly Green II

It validates the helicopter type’s operational readiness for forward deployment. The HH-60W Jolly Green II is intended to replace the aging HH-60G Pave Hawk and was designed according to specific operational requirements to meet USAF combat rescue missions.

Sikorsky, which designed and manufactures the HH-60W, has welcomed the move, with Nathalie Previte, the company’s Vice President for Army & Air Force Systems, saying: “Sikorsky is committed to continuing deliveries of the Department of Defense’s only dedicated combat search and rescue (CSAR) helicopter, providing the most capable platform to rescue crews who depend on this aircraft day-in and day-out to conduct vital life-saving missions.”

Sikorsky has delivered 24 HH-60W aircraft to the Air Force so far, including the entirety of Lot 1, as well as all Engineering & Manufacturing Development aircraft. Lot 2, a batch of 12 more aircraft, began deliveries in June 2022. A further two batches have been requested – most recently Lot 4, comprising 14 aircraft, ordered in February 2022. A contract for Lot 5 is expected to be awarded to Sikorsky in 2023.

The HH-60W offers a number of upgrades over its predecessor, including:

• A larger, air refuellable main fuel tank – 644 gallons (2,438 liters) vs 360 gallons
• Improved aerodynamic and hover performance
• Improved and integrated survivability and defensive systems
• Expanded communications – including two tactical datalinks and intel receivers
• Higher resolution sensors
• Upgraded armor and ballistic protection.

Sikorsky updated AirMed&Rescue on both the HH-60W Jolly Green project and Sikorsky-Boeing DEFIANT X assault aircraft project as part of our September 2022 issue.