HELLENIC NAVY HELICOPTER SQUADRON2 (HNHS/2)
Emblem
The emblem of the 2nd Helicopter Squadron includesahawk, a brave and proud bird with characteristics of impetuosity and excellent vision. The Hawk is depicted facing east in a night environment, symbolizing the ability of the S-70 helicopter to operate at night. The excellent ability to see is symbolized by the reflection at the point of the eye with the shape of a cross. The three stars represent the three types of weapons carried by S70. The four white folds, form nine stripes corresponding to the nine stripes of the Greek flag. The emblem includes the oblique face of a PENGUIN guided missile and is completed with a band indicating the name of the squadron.
History
On 20 December 1991, the Hellenic Navy General Staff (HNGS) signed Contract 21/91 with the American company Sikorsky Aircraft for the procurement of five (5) S-70B-6 helicopters, with an option for three (3) additional units. At the Navy’s request, it was agreed that the official designation of the aircraft would be “AEGEAN HAWK”, reflecting the unique operational environment of the Aegean Sea.
A landmark date for the Hellenic Navy was 22 March 1994, when the first Aegean Hawk (HN 51) performed its maiden flight. A year later, on 18 March 1995, the first three Aegean Hawks (HN 51, 53, 54) arrived in Greece. The 3rd of April 1995 marked their official induction into the Hellenic Navy Aviation Command. On 13 May, the remaining two helicopters (HN 52 and HN 55) were incorporated, completing the initial contract. The official induction ceremony, attended by representatives of the U.S. side, took place on 14 July 1995.
On 10 September 1997, the sixth helicopter (HN 56) arrived in Greece, followed in August 1998 by HN 57 and HN 58, completing both the initial procurement and the optional order. The expansion of the Aegean Hawk fleet continued on 12 June 2000, with the addition of two more S-70B (Glass Cockpit) helicopters (HN 59 & HN 60). The process was finalized with the signing of a contract on 24 September 2002 for the procurement of the final S-70B (Glass Cockpit) helicopter, HN 61. These helicopters were gradually delivered between 2004 and 2005, forming the full complement of the 2nd Helicopter Squadron
Mission of the 2nd Helicopter Squadron
The 2nd Helicopter Squadron was established on 17 November 1997 with eight (8) S-70B6 Aegean Hawk helicopters equipped with analog flight instruments, and three (3) S-70B (Glass Cockpit) helicopters featuring digital instrumentation. The Squadron operates from both Hellenic Navy warships and land bases, and each helicopter is capable of carrying up to three Mk 46 Mod 5 torpedoes, one Penguin anti-ship missile, and four Hellfire missiles (S70B).
Closely linked to the operations of the Hellenic Fleet Command, the 2nd Helicopter Squadron actively participates in numerous domestic and international naval exercises, as well as multinational missions — most recently contributing to the European Union Operation “ASPIDES.”
Operational Employment – Mission Types
The Squadron’s primary missions include Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) — detection and engagement of surface targets — and Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). Additionally, it conducts Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) missions, Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP), Special Operations (SPECIAL OPS) involving Unconventional Warfare Teams, and other operations consistent with the overall mission of the Hellenic Navy.
Equally important is the Squadron’s contribution to Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, carried out under the direction of the Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) of the Hellenic Coast Guard (HCG). From 2014 to the present, the Squadron has logged over 3,000 flight hours across numerous complex missions in both maritime and mountainous environments, successfully rescuing more than 450 individuals.
Notable rescue missions include the December 2015 operation during the NORMAN ATLANTIC ferry incident, as well as the 2023 flood relief and rescue operations in Thessaly, following the catastrophic storm “DANIEL.” ”
Missions
a. Anti-surface
b. Anti-submarine
c. Search and Rescue
d. Fast Roping
e.Administration
Our Fleet
