HSM-46
Helicopter Maritime Strike Four Six , the "Grandmasters", are a United States Navy helicopter squadron based at Naval [Air Station Jacksonville], Florida. HSM-46 deploys aboard cruisers, destroyers, and aircraft carriers in independent operations or in support of strike groups. The squadron was established on 7 April 1988 as Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Forty Six
Mission and history
HSM-46 deploys Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System program helicopters to United States Navy warships performing search and rescue, vertical replenishment, medical evacuation, and communications relay and combat missions. Established at Mayport, Florida, on 7 April 1988, HSM-46 currently deploys ten detachments aboard Atlantic Fleet ships. A detachment normally consists of one or two aircraft, five to six pilots, two to three sensor operators, a maintenance chief, and eight to twelve maintenance personnel. A typical detachment deploys with its assigned ship for six months, with several shorter work-up cruises prior to the long deployment. The squadron is directly responsible to Commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet.The squadron is currently assigned to Carrier [Air Wing 7] on board the aircraft carrier, replacing HSM-79.