First Unmanned Helo Squadron For U.S Navy

The U.S Navy first operational squadron with both manned and unmanned aircraft came into effect today.

Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35 became the first composite expeditionary helicopter squadron to include both the world's most technologically advanced helicopter; the MH-60R Seahawk and the MQ-8B Fire Scout Vertical Take-off and Landing Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (VTUAV).

The squadron, designated the "Magicians," adopted the call sign of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 35, which was decommissioned on NAS North Island in 1992, after 19 years of service. 

"The reestablishment of this squadron is exceptional as it points toward the future for our Naval Aviation forces," said Commander, Naval Air Forces, Vice Adm. David H. Buss. "The actions today represent a clear line dividing what Naval Aviation once was and what it will be." 

As the next generation submarine hunter and anti-surface warfare helicopter, the MH-60R is the cornerstone of the Navy's Helicopter Concept of Operations. The Fire Scout (VTUAV) system provides unique situation awareness and precision target support for the Navy, said Buss. 

Both new aircraft will embark with the Navy's new high speed, agile, shallow-draft Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), which was also recently introduced to the fleet. 

The Magicians' first mission, beginning this summer, will be to undergo training and develop guidelines for what will be the Navy's standards of operation for the expeditionary Fire Scout.