About this Unit
Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 11 (HS-11), known as the "Dragonslayers," was established in June 1957. Initially based at Naval Air Station Quonset Point, Rhode Island, HS-11 specialized in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions, employing helicopters such as the HSS-1 Seabat and later the SH-3 Sea King. The squadron participated in key operations during the Cold War and beyond, including deployments aboard aircraft carriers in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. In 2014, HS-11 was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 11 (HSC-11), transitioning to the MH-60S Seahawk and expanding its mission set to include search and rescue, logistics, and combat support roles.
Historical Facts
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Founding and Designation: Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Eleven (HS-11) was established on 27 June 1957 at Naval Air Station Quonset Point, Rhode Island.
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Nickname: The squadron is famously known as the "Dragonslayers," a name adopted in the 1980s after previously being called the "Sub Seekers."
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First Aircraft: HS-11 initially flew the Sikorsky HSS-1 Seabat, a pioneering anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopter of its era.
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Pioneering Carrier Operations: HS-11 was the first ASW helicopter squadron to deploy aboard an aircraft carrier, marking a significant evolution in naval aviation tactics.
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Vietnam War Service: The squadron participated in operations during the Vietnam War, providing ASW support and search and rescue (SAR) missions for U.S. Navy carriers.
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Technological Advances: HS-11 transitioned through several helicopter models, including the SH-3 Sea King and later the SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawks, integrating cutting-edge technology throughout its history.
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Space Recovery Missions: HS-11 supported NASA by participating in the recovery of astronauts from the Apollo missions, including the famous Apollo 7 recovery in 1968.
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Humanitarian Roles: The squadron has been involved in multiple humanitarian and disaster relief efforts, notably during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, rescuing stranded civilians and delivering supplies.
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Homebase Moves: Over its history, HS-11 has been stationed at several bases, including NAS Quonset Point, NAS Jacksonville, and NAS Norfolk, reflecting the shifting priorities of the U.S. Navy.
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Transition to HSM-72: In 2016, HS-11 was re-designated as Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron Seven Two (HSM-72), transitioning to the MH-60R Seahawk and continuing its legacy as a premier naval helicopter squadron.
