HM-16

Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 16 (HM-16) was a United States Navy helicopter squadron established in 1971. The unit specialized in airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM), utilizing the CH-53 Sea Stallion and later the MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters to detect and neutralize naval mines. HM-16 played a key role in various operations, ensuring safe maritime passage for U.S. and allied vessels, particularly during conflicts and heightened tensions in strategic waterways. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia, until it was disestablished in 1994 as part of post-Cold War force reductions.