About this Unit
Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron FIVE (HS-5), known as the "Nightdippers," was established on January 3, 1956. Based at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia, HS-5 operated a variety of helicopters, including the HSS-1 Seabat and later the SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawks, focusing on anti-submarine warfare (ASW), search and rescue, and fleet support missions. The squadron participated in major operations such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War, and Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2016, HS-5 was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron FIVE (HSC-5), reflecting its expanded mission set and transition to the MH-60S Seahawk.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron FIVE (HS-5), known as the "Nightdippers," was established on January 3, 1956 at Naval Air Station Key West, Florida.
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Nickname: The squadron became widely known as the "Nightdippers" due to their ability to conduct anti-submarine operations at night, a challenging feat in the early days of naval helicopter operations.
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Pioneering Role: HS-5 was one of the first U.S. Navy squadrons equipped with the Sikorsky HSS-1 Seabat, a key anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopter of the era.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, HS-5 played a critical role in the naval blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis, providing ASW coverage for U.S. ships enforcing the quarantine.
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Apollo Recovery: The squadron participated in the recovery of Apollo 7 in October 1968, serving as the primary helicopter squadron for the retrieval of astronauts after splashdown.
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Transition to SH-3 Sea King: In 1969, HS-5 transitioned to the Sikorsky SH-3D Sea King, enhancing their capabilities for anti-submarine and search and rescue missions.
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Gulf War Service: HS-5 deployed aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, conducting ASW and combat search and rescue missions.
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9/11 Response: The squadron was deployed at sea with USS George Washington (CVN 73) during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, immediately shifting to homeland defense operations.
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Helicopter Upgrades: In 2005, HS-5 became one of the first anti-submarine squadrons to transition to the Sikorsky MH-60S Seahawk, modernizing its mission capabilities.
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Redesignation: In 2016, as part of the Navy’s helicopter reorganization, HS-5 was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron FIVE (HSC-5), reflecting expanded roles beyond anti-submarine warfare.
