Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter)
Operate sensors and rescue equipment aboard Navy helicopters.
Job Overview
AWSs serve as aircrewmen on MH-60S helicopters supporting search and rescue, VERTREP, and combat support.
Aircrewmen operate hoists, door guns, and sensors; conduct rescues; and support anti-submarine warfare and personnel recovery.
History & Deep Dive
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Daily Responsibilities
- Aircraft preflight
- Operate hoist and gun
- Conduct SAR
- Anti-submarine ops
- Post-flight maintenance
Training Pipeline
- 1Recruit Training10 weeks
- 2NAWCAD/AW A SchoolPensacola/NAS · ~1 year total
Official Qualification Requirements
Requirements being verified against the official service publication. We do not display unofficial or estimated scores — contact a recruiter for the current minimum.
SECRET
Requirements are subject to change by the Department of Defense and each service. Always confirm the current standard with an official recruiter before making a decision.
May be required. The branch's published enlistment rules allow green card holders, but some units or assignments in this field need a security clearance, and only U.S. citizens are eligible for one (32 CFR 117.10, SEAD-4). Confirm the specific assignment with a recruiter. Verified August 2026.
Video Library
Career Progression
Crew chief, flight instructor.
Assignments & Special Schools
- NAS North Island
- NAS Norfolk
- NAS Jacksonville
- NAS Whidbey
Deployment: Regular carrier and expeditionary deployments.
Advantages
- Flight status pay
- Elite rescue mission
- Team environment
Disadvantages
- High physical demand
- Long training pipeline
- At-sea rotations