Navy helicopter squadron prepares for busy hurricane season
By Mahealani Richardson
Published on May 30, 2026.
The U.S. Navy's HSM-37 helicopter unit is preparing for the upcoming hurricane season, with forecasters predicting up to 13 tropical cyclones in the coming months. The squadron, which operates out of Marine Corps Base Kaneohe, has responded to several incidents, including the Kona Low storm in March and the Maui wildfires. Each MH-60R ‘Romeo’ is equipped with radar, Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) and cameras. The team also completed exercises simulating a category 4 hurricane and includes search and rescue. The preparation for disaster never stops, with the crews wearing 30-pound vests with life jackets and an 8-pound helmet.
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Navy helicopter squadron prepares for busy hurricane season
The US Navy's HSM-37 helicopter squadron, based in Hawaii, is preparing for multiple hurricanes and major disasters, including major rescues and reconstruction efforts.