HELICOPTER UNMANNED RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON ONE (HUQ-1) is the FIRST U.S. Navy unmanned helicopter training & operational squadron. Established on October 1, 2012, HUQ-1 is both a Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) & a deployable operational unit. The FRS component trains the Fleet to operate VTUAVs onboard deployed vessels such as the Littoral Combat Ship. The operational component provides deployed detachments to operate VTUAVs in support of various missions involving Special Operations Forces. The insignia depicts an immortal three-headed water beast from Greek mythology known as the Hydra. As lore holds, when one head of the Hydra is cut off, two more heads replace it. A guardian creature, the Hydra is a protector breathing poisonous fumes to ward off intruders. This symbolism is reflected in HUQ-1's current missions, extending from the central unit to act in a guardian role, providing information & warning of distant threats. By nature, the Hydra is a defensive creature, but can act in an offensive capacity when required. Much like its namesake constellation, the largest in our system, the HUQ-1 Hydras' UAVs contribute to an extensive, watchful network of information gathering worldwide. The multiple heads are also symbolic as HUQ-1 has many components that gain more functionality as the UAV world expands. The Hydras of HUQ-1 train & operate multiple aircraft, support multiple missions across various ship platforms, & globally provide three continuous orbits with its operational detachments. The gear & metallic details represent the robotic & unmanned nature of the aircraft, while the shield & sword represent the aforementioned defensive & offensive capabilities. Always increasing our Navy's capabilities over land & sea, the Hydras of HUQ-1 are leading the Fleet into the new era of unmanned warfare.
