SOFIC 2022: Night Stalkers helicopters in action
A rare opportunity to see the Night Stalkers' MH-6M Little Bird and MH-60M Black Hawk helicopters in action over Tampa Bay.
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
US Army 160th SOAR MH60 Blackhawk helicopter, Tampa, Florida, USA
During the Special Operations Forces Industry Conference (SOFIC), held in Tampa, Florida, in May 2022, helicopters of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), better known as the "Night Stalkers", took part in a realistic special operations demonstration over Tampa Bay. Featuring MH-6M Little Bird and MH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, the scenario combined sniper insertion, assault operations, fire support and extraction missions. The following photo selection highlights some of the most impressive moments of this rare public demonstration.
A hostage rescue scenario over Tampa Bay
The scenario simulated a hostage rescue operation in Tampa Bay. It began with the deployment of snipers to secure the area, followed by the insertion of special operations personnel approaching the target from the water. Commandos then fast-roped onto the yacht while MH-6M Little Bird helicopters provided fire support throughout the assault. After the objective had been secured, the assault force was recovered by MH-60M Black Hawks using rope ladders, the hostages were evacuated and the helicopters departed the area.
MH-60M Black Hawk
The MH-60M Black Hawk is the primary assault and support helicopter operated by the 160th SOAR. Equipped for special operations missions, it can transport commandos, conduct fast-rope insertions and perform extractions in demanding environments.
(Photo Stéphane Gimard - Helicopassion)
US Army 160th SOAR MH60 Blackhawk helicopter, Tampa, Florida, USA
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo Stéphane Gimard - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
Special Operations Craft Riverine (SOCR)
Fast boats played a key role during the demonstration by securing the area around the yacht and supporting the movements of special operations personnel throughout the scenario.
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
SOCR boat (Special Operations Craft Riverine), Tampa, Florida, USA
MH-6M Little Bird
The MH-6M Little Bird is one of the most recognizable aircraft operated by the Night Stalkers. Its compact size and exceptional manoeuvrability make it ideal for precision insertions, reconnaissance missions and close support operations.
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
US Army 160th SOAR MH6 Little Bird helicopter, Tampa, Florida, USA
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)
(Photo André Bour - Helicopassion)