About this Unit
Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron Twelve (HM-12), known as the "Sea Dragons," was established by the United States Navy on April 1, 1971. As the Navy’s first dedicated airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM) squadron, HM-12 played a crucial role in developing and deploying helicopter-based mine-sweeping techniques, primarily using the CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters. The unit provided vital mine-clearing support during operations such as the Vietnam War and later the Persian Gulf conflicts. HM-12 was instrumental in training personnel and establishing doctrine for modern mine countermeasures before its deactivation in 1994, with its legacy continued by successor squadrons.
Historical Facts
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First Operational MH-53E Squadron: Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron Twelve (HM-12) was the first operational U.S. Navy squadron to fly the MH-53E Sea Dragon, a powerful helicopter specifically designed for airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM) and heavy-lift missions.
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Established in 1971: HM-12 was established on 1 April 1971 at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia, as the Navy's first dedicated mine countermeasures helicopter squadron.
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Nickname – “Sea Dragons”: The squadron adopted the nickname "Sea Dragons," reflecting both their aircraft and their vital role in naval mine warfare.
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Training and Fleet Replacement: HM-12 not only conducted operational missions but also served as the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) for all Navy MH-53E crews, training pilots, aircrew, and maintainers.
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Gulf War Participation: HM-12 personnel and aircraft played a critical role during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, clearing mines from the Persian Gulf to allow safe passage for U.S. and coalition naval forces.
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Conversion to MH-53E: In 1986, HM-12 transitioned from earlier RH-53D helicopters to the newer and more capable MH-53E Sea Dragon, enhancing their mine-sweeping abilities.
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Decommissioned in 1994: After over 23 years of service, HM-12 was officially decommissioned on 30 September 1994, with its training mission transferred to HM-14 and HM-15.
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International Training: HM-12 trained crews not only from the U.S. Navy, but also from allied navies, including Japan and the United Kingdom, in mine countermeasure techniques and helicopter operations.
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Humanitarian Missions: Beyond mine warfare, HM-12 participated in humanitarian relief operations, such as disaster response, using the heavy lift capabilities of their helicopters to deliver supplies and aid.
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Legacy in Mine Warfare: HM-12 set the standard for airborne mine countermeasures in the U.S. Navy, developing tactics, techniques, and procedures that continue to influence mine warfare operations today.
