For water recovery of Coast Guard helicopters, which assets are desirable to use?

• A. Commercial or other military service resources
• B. Local fishing fleets
• C. Private towing companies
• D. Coast Guard cutters

Answer: (A)

Recovering a helicopter from water requires assets with heavy-lift capability, specialized salvage equipment, and trained dive and rigging teams. Commercial salvage firms or assets from other military services bring proven heavy-lift boats, cranes, flotation gear, diver teams, and established procedures for safe recovery, all of which are essential to lift and stabilize a downed helicopter from the sea surface without causing further damage or environmental harm. Their availability and interoperability with rescue operations allow for a quicker, safer, and more controlled recovery, which is why they’re the most desirable option in water-recovery scenarios.

Local fishing fleets lack the necessary certified equipment and training for such recoveries; private towing companies may have some towing ability but generally do not carry the heavy salvage rigging, divers, or environmental controls required for aircraft recovery. Coast Guard cutters can perform many SAR tasks, but they are not typically equipped or assigned for heavy salvage operations, and relying solely on them can constrain recovery timelines and mission readiness.