The U.S. Air Force Reserve’s 920th Rescue Wing, based at Patrick Space Force Base in Florida, is ushering in a new era with the arrival of HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters.
These state-of-the-art aircraft will replace the wing’s aging HH-60G Pave Hawks, which have been in service since the early 1990s.
A Modern Upgrade for Critical Missions
The Jolly Green II represents the latest in combat search and rescue technology. Designed for long-range, high-threat rescue missions, the aircraft provides advanced avionics, improved survivability features, and greater fuel capacity.
This ensures crews can operate deeper into hostile environments to save downed airmen and other personnel.
Leadership Perspective
Lt. Colonel Chadd Bloomstine, acting maintenance group deputy commander, emphasized the importance of the transition.
The new helicopters will not only reduce the maintenance challenges posed by the decades-old Pave Hawks but also give aircrews a more reliable and capable platform for life-saving missions.
A Legacy of Rescue, a Future of Readiness
The 920th Rescue Wing has long been recognized for its combat search and rescue expertise, often described as “that others may live.” With the introduction of the HH-60W Jolly Green II, the wing continues its legacy with modern tools to match the growing challenges of today’s operational environment.
