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Home Global Operations

Navy’s Divestment Dilemma with HSC-85 Shutdown

The U.S. Navy recently deactivated its only special operations support squadron, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85, as part of a divest-to-invest initiative.

  • Editor Staff
  • October 7, 2023
SAN DIEGO, California (June 30, 2023) MH-60S Seahawks assigned to the “Firehawks” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85 fly near San Diego during the squadron's final flight prior to its deactivation ceremony. Navy Reserve squadron HSC-85 is the Navy’s last helicopter squadron dedicated to Naval Special Warfare (NSW) and Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan LeCompte)
(Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Ryan LeCompte Commander, Naval Air Force Reserve)
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The U.S. Navy recently deactivated its only special operations support squadron, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85, as part of a divest-to-invest initiative. While the decision aims to save around $300 million, concerns arise about the loss of operational flexibility in the Indo-Pacific and the potential weakening of the U.S.’s strategic position.
  

Key Points: 

  1. HSC-85, known as the Firehawks, played a pivotal role in strengthening regional partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, participating in exercises like Cobra Gold and Talisman Saber.
  2. The disbanding of HSC-85 limits the combatant commander’s capability to address operational needs and crisis response in the region, possibly reducing the U.S.’s freedom of action.
  3. The decision appears inconsistent with a Department of Defense report highlighting concerns about the U.S. military’s mobilization capabilities in escalating scenarios involving major powers.
  4. HSC-85’s unique position as the only reserve naval helicopter squadron deploying from the West Coast means its dissolution creates a gap in ready reserve force capabilities.
  5. Historical patterns suggest the importance of maintaining capabilities like those of HSC-85, especially given past irregular warfare situations after large-scale combat operations.

 

Source: https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2023/october/reconsider-shutting-down-navys-only-special-operations-support

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