- first U.S. unmanned helo training & operational squadron
- Fleet Replacement Squadron
- deployable operational unit
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 deploye
d 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.