Combat Rescue Helicopter

The Combat Rescue Helicopter (HH-60W) Program is a major Air Force initiative under budget line item H060WH, aimed at replacing the aging HH-60G fleet. The primary goal of the program is to ensure the Air Force's continued ability to conduct Personnel Recovery missions, especially Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) operations. The HH-60W is designed to operate day or night, in adverse weather, and in environments with chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. It features advanced onboard defensive systems and in-flight air refueling capability, which collectively enhance survivability and mission range compared to legacy systems.

The program's objectives include the procurement of 113 HH-60W aircraft, with funding supporting both production and sustainment activities. As of FY 2026, the program has received approval for full-rate production, with contracts awarded to Lockheed Martin-Sikorsky Aircraft Company. The procurement plan encompasses four Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) aircraft, five System Demonstration Test Article (SDTA) aircraft, and one modernization test aircraft, followed by seven production lots totaling 89 aircraft. The FY 2026 budget specifically supports the procurement of four additional aircraft, as well as associated support and sustainment activities.

In addition to aircraft procurement, the training systems line item is a critical component of the program. The training system includes motion and non-motion simulators, virtual and mixed reality trainers, and other devices for aircrew and maintenance personnel. Funding also covers courseware, initial spares, interim contractor support, and support equipment. These efforts are intended to ensure that both aircrew and maintenance teams are fully prepared to operate and sustain the HH-60W fleet, supporting operational readiness across active and reserve components.

The program also addresses depot stand-up and sustainment objectives, with funding allocated to establish depot-level maintenance capabilities at Fleet Readiness Center-East, Cherry Point, NC, and other designated locations. This includes the activation of Programmed Depot Maintenance (PDM) and commodity repairs, ensuring long-term support and reliability for the HH-60W fleet. Initial sustainment will be provided by the contractor, with a transition to organic depot support as capabilities mature.

Another key objective is the resolution of diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages (DMSMS). The budget supports activities such as bridge buys, life-of-type buys, and engineering redesigns to mitigate risks associated with component obsolescence. These efforts are essential to maintain production schedules and ensure the availability of critical parts throughout the lifecycle of the HH-60W program.

The modernization and upgrades line item supports the integration of enhancement packages and new technologies into the HH-60W fleet. This includes systems such as Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM), GPS Anti-Jammer, Degraded Visual Environment (DVE) systems, Video Data Link, Blue Force Tracker 2, Integrated Vehicle Health Monitoring System, and other mission-critical upgrades. These enhancements are designed to improve survivability, situational awareness, and interoperability with other platforms.

The program's objectives align with broader Department of Defense and Air Force priorities, including support for homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military assistance to civil authorities. The HH-60W's capabilities also enable it to perform collateral missions such as non-conventional assisted recovery, aeromedical evacuation, disaster relief, counterdrug operations, and support for NASA flight operations. The program's budget justification reflects the need for continued investment in personnel recovery capabilities, sustainment infrastructure, and modernization to meet current and future operational requirements.