About this Unit
Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 26 (HSC-26), known as the "Chargers," was established in 1967 as Helicopter Combat Support Squadron SIX (HC-6) before being redesignated as HSC-26 in 2005. The squadron is based at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, and operates the MH-60S Seahawk helicopter. HSC-26 specializes in a wide range of missions including search and rescue (SAR), logistics support, anti-surface warfare, and humanitarian assistance. The Chargers have deployed extensively to support operations in the U.S. Fifth and Sixth Fleets, regularly providing vital rotary-wing support aboard deployed naval vessels and at expeditionary shore bases.
Historical Facts
•
Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 26 (HSC-26) "Chargers": HSC-26 is a United States Navy helicopter squadron based at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, known by the nickname "Chargers."
•
Established Lineage: The squadron traces its origins to 1967 as Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 6 (HC-6), redesignated as HSC-26 in 2005 during the Navy’s helicopter restructuring.
•
Primary Mission: HSC-26’s missions include vertical replenishment (VERTREP), search and rescue (SAR), anti-surface warfare (ASUW), medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), and logistics support.
•
Aircraft Operated: The squadron currently operates the MH-60S Seahawk helicopter, a versatile platform used for a wide range of naval operations.
•
Detachment "Desert Hawks": HSC-26 maintains a permanent forward-deployed detachment called the "Desert Hawks" in Bahrain, providing logistics and support for U.S. Fifth Fleet operations in the Middle East.
•
Humanitarian Missions: HSC-26 has played a major role in disaster relief efforts, including Hurricane Katrina (2005), Haiti earthquake (2010), and various humanitarian assistance missions worldwide.
•
Combat Operations: The squadron has supported combat missions in Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, delivering vital logistics and personnel in austere environments.
•
Innovation in Logistics: HSC-26 pioneered "vertical replenishment" techniques, transferring cargo and supplies between ships at sea using helicopters, revolutionizing naval logistics.
•
Safety Record: The squadron is recognized for its exceptional safety record, earning multiple Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Aviation Safety Awards.
•
Community and Legacy: HSC-26 actively supports community outreach and veteran initiatives, fostering strong ties with both the Navy family and local communities, while upholding a legacy of professionalism and service.
