JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (7News) — Joint Base Andrews received its first HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter Monday, beginning a fleet transition intended to expand the Air Force’s ability to transport senior leaders and respond to emergencies in the Washington, D.C. region.
The helicopter is the first of 26 planned to replace the installation’s aging UH-1N Hueys. Air Force officials say the newer aircraft can fly faster and farther and carry substantially larger loads.
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The HH-60W will initially be assigned to the 5th Helicopter Squadron, activated Aug. 27 to help establish the fleet and train personnel. The 1st Helicopter Squadron will continue flying Hueys during the transition to maintain round-the-clock mission coverage.
Both squadrons support government contingency operations, assistance to civilian authorities and senior leadership transportation, according to the Air Force.
Col. Karl W. Seekamp, the 316th Wing and installation commander, said the arrival reflects a decision to modernize equipment used for the national security mission.
“Our leaders recognized the need for change and decided to rapidly modernize the equipment that we use to protect our nation,” Seekamp said.
The Jolly Green II has a larger airframe and greater fuel capacity than the Huey. The wing said it offers nearly three times the airlift capability.
The 1st Helicopter Squadron was established in 1969 and has flown the UH-1N since 1971, according to the wing’s arrival announcement.
Lt. Col. Jonathan Bonilla, commander of the 5th Helicopter Squadron, said preserving that history remains important as crews prepare for the new aircraft.
RELATED | Jolly Green II helicopters to join familiar Hueys over Washington, DC
Beginning in 2027, designated Andrews aircrews will receive familiarization training from certified Sikorsky crews. Selected personnel will then qualify to instruct fellow crew members, expanding the number trained on both helicopter types.
The Air Force previously said it anticipates full operational capability in 2030.
This post was originally published on Fox 45 by Sinclair Media Group.
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