Joint Base Andrews to recieve 26 HH-60Ws, stand up helicopter squadron

Joint Base Andrews (Maryland) will receive 26 HH-60W helicopters to replace its 26 aging UH-1N “Huey” medium utility aircraft, according to a Wednesday release. The transition is driven by gaps in the UH-1N fleet’s speed, range, and lift capacity for modern mission support. HH-60W “Whiskey” helicopters are expected to reach operational capability by 2030. Andrews will also add 60 active-duty manpower positions as part of the handoff. The base will stand up the 5th Helicopter Squadron on Aug. 27 as the first unit to receive the new airframes.