Navy's elite HSM-71 returns after five-month deployment showcasing versatile capabilities

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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

By Sky Industry News

Dec 22, 2024

Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron Seven One (HSM-71), known as the "Raptors," recently concluded a successful five-month deployment. The squadron, part of Carrier Air Wing Nine (CVW-9) based at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, returned on December 14, 2024. The unit operates the MH-60R Seahawk helicopter and is a subunit of the USS Abraham Lincoln's strike group.

Formed on October 4, 2007, HSM-71 was the first to use the MH-60R Seahawk. It has received multiple awards, including the Captain Arnold Jay Isbell Trophy for antisubmarine warfare excellence in 2009 and 2010. In addition to ASW missions, it focuses on Search & Rescue (SAR) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW).

The MH-60R Seahawk can operate from various naval platforms and supports intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and electronic warfare missions. Commander Kenneth Petkunas leads HSM-71.

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During its recent deployment with the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, HSM-71 worked with both US 7th and 5th fleets. The squadron participated in joint military exercises such as the bilateral Multi-Large Deck Event with Italy's navy and supported operations with CENTCOM during dual-carrier exercises involving USS Theodore Roosevelt.

Commander Petkunas praised his team: "The Raptors are coming home with our heads held high... We appreciate and could not have done it without the unwavering support of our loved ones back home."

Throughout this deployment, HSM-71 helicopters completed over 1,200 sorties totaling more than 3,300 flight hours. They provided continuous antisubmarine capabilities essential for maintaining group safety.

Supported by extensive maintenance efforts totaling 36,400 man-hours, HSM-71 demonstrated its ability to project naval power across key conflict areas globally.

The MH-60R model combines features from earlier models like SH-60B/F with advanced avionics for multi-mission design purposes. Its sensor suite includes Raytheon's AAS-44 electro-optical system along with radar upgrades offering enhanced situational awareness through systems such as AN/AQS–22 sonar jointly developed by Raytheon & Thales Corporation.

Armed offensively using Mk–54 torpedoes or Hellfire missiles when needed; these helicopters remain valuable assets due to their vertical takeoff/landing capability allowing efficient deployment even under constrained conditions aboard destroyers/freeing up space within aircraft carriers' decks—ensuring continued reliance upon them within carrier strike groups worldwide well into future decades ahead!