US Air Force Deploys Advanced Rescue Helicopters to Strengthen Operations in East Africa

Rescue Squadron Deploys Jolly Green II Helicopters in Africa

JUNE 25, 2026 – The 56th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron arrived at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, June 10, setting a milestone by deploying their HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters and establishing a critical rotary-wing rescue capability in East Africa to support regional response efforts. The deployment as part of the 406th Air Expeditionary Wing, U.S. Air Forces Africa, highlights the wing’s enduring priorities of defending and sustaining the base w…

US Air Force Deploys Advanced Rescue Helicopters to Strengthen Operations in East Africa

The U.S. Air Force has expanded its operational presence in East Africa with the arrival of the 56th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron and its HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters at Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti. The deployment, which began on June 10, marks the introduction of a dedicated rotary-wing rescue capability in the region and is expected to enhance personnel recovery and emergency response operations across a broad area of responsibility. Mili…