About this Unit
Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Four (HC-4), known as the "Black Stallions," was established on July 1, 1983. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, and primarily operated the CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter. HC-4 provided heavy lift, logistics, and vertical replenishment support throughout the Mediterranean, Europe, and the Middle East, including missions during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. The unit was decommissioned in 2005, marking the end of over two decades of distinguished service.
Historical Facts
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Origin and Nickname: Helicopter Combat Support Squadron FOUR (HC-4) was established on July 1, 1983, at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, and was famously known as the "Black Stallions" due to its distinctive insignia and call sign.
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Unique Aircraft: HC-4 operated the massive Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters, the largest and heaviest helicopters in the U.S. military at the time, capable of lifting 16 tons of cargo.
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First on the Scene: In 1986, HC-4 was the first U.S. Navy unit to fly the CH-53E aircraft in Europe and the Mediterranean, providing a significant increase in heavy-lift capability to the region.
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Desert Storm Support: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, HC-4 played a critical logistics role, moving personnel, equipment, and supplies throughout the Mediterranean and to the Arabian Gulf.
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Humanitarian Missions: HC-4 was instrumental in humanitarian relief efforts, including disaster response in Somalia during Operation Restore Hope (1992-1993) and earthquake relief in southern Italy.
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Long-Range Operations: The squadron set records for the longest over-water helicopter flights conducted by the U.S. Navy, including a 1,100 nautical mile mission from Sicily to Israel.
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Special Operations Support: HC-4 frequently supported U.S. and allied special operations forces in the Mediterranean, Balkans, and Middle East, providing unique insertion and extraction capabilities.
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VIP Transport: The Black Stallions were often tasked with transporting high-ranking military and government officials, including U.S. Presidents and foreign dignitaries, due to their reliability and range.
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Multinational Exercises: HC-4 participated in numerous NATO and joint exercises, enhancing coalition interoperability and building international partnerships.
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Deactivation and Legacy: HC-4 was deactivated on September 28, 2005, after 22 years of service. Its legacy continues, with many of its personnel and aircraft transferred to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWO (HSC-2).
