Alaska Rescue Squadron Upgraded Helicopter Fleet
The 210th Rescue Squadron completed its transition to the HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter this summer.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Emergency Response
This summer, the 210th Rescue Squadron finalized its transition to the HH-60W Jolly Green II, replacing the older HH-60G Pave Hawk model. The new fleet has been actively supporting search-and-rescue missions across Alaska since February.
Why it matters
The transition enhances the operational capabilities of the 210th Rescue Squadron, as the new aircraft model provides greater flight range and mission endurance compared to its predecessor.
Crews successfully navigated varied terrain during recent operations, including a rescue 80 miles northwest of Anchorage and another near Friday Creek on September 10. The squadron completed its transition to the new aircraft throughout the summer of 2026.
The players
210th Rescue Squadron
This Alaska-based unit is responsible for conducting search-and-rescue operations in some of the most challenging environments in the United States.
The details
The squadron utilizes hoist operations to reach casualties in areas where the aircraft cannot land, while other missions involve landing at a distance and deploying pararescuemen on foot. Recent deployments included a February rescue of a snowmachiner near Cooper Landing and an August mission to retrieve four individuals from a downed Cessna 180 on Montague Island.
Timeline
February 2026: The squadron performed its first search-and-rescue mission using the new HH-60W.
Summer 2026: The 210th Rescue Squadron completed its full transition to the HH-60W helicopter fleet.
Late August 2026: A crew rescued four people from a downed plane on Montague Island.
September 10, 2026: Two separate aircraft rescue missions were completed near Friday Creek and northwest of Anchorage.
Seasonal Patterns
The transition to the HH-60W Jolly Green II follows a broader trend of upgrading aging airframes to extend operational reach in rugged environments. This modernization effort reflects a shift toward more capable air assets that allow for prolonged search-and-rescue activity across remote Alaskan landscapes.
Residents and backcountry travelers should be aware that search-and-rescue operations in remote areas like Montague Island or near Palmer may involve low-flying aircraft or active hoist maneuvers. In the event of an emergency, officials advise relaying precise GPS coordinates to expedite rescue operations.
The takeaway
The implementation of the HH-60W Jolly Green II significantly improves the squadron's ability to cover vast distances during life-saving missions. Travelers heading into remote Alaskan terrain should maintain updated safety equipment and communication devices to ensure they are reachable in the event of an accident.
Further reading
Learn more about local incident responses on the Alaska Emergency Response page.
