The Israeli Air Force has reactivated its 193rd Squadron at Palmachim Airbase following a nearly yearlong shutdown, resuming dedicated helicopter operations in support of the Israeli Navy.
The squadron had been closed since August 2025 after its AS565 Panther helicopters were retired. It will now operate the SH-60F Seahawk, a naval variant of the Black Hawk helicopter, according to the Israel Defense Forces.
A reopening ceremony was held at the airbase. The IDF stated the unit will operate alongside the Missile Boat Flotilla on maritime missions, including defending Israel's strategic assets, safeguarding freedom of navigation, supporting maneuvering forces and employing naval firepower.
"The squadron constitutes a central component of the IDF's air-sea array and expands the operational response in the maritime domain," The military said.