HMLA-169

HMLA-169, formally known as Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, is a United States Marine Corps helicopter squadron based at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California. The squadron is part of Marine Aircraft Group 39 (MAG-39) and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW). HMLA-169 flies the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter and the UH-1Y Venom utility helicopter.

Mission:

The primary mission of HMLA-169 is to provide offensive air support, utility support, and armed escort to support Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) operations. This includes close air support, armed reconnaissance, airborne command and control, and assault support.

History:

HMLA-169 was originally activated as Marine Helicopter Squadron Light 169 (HML-169) on March 31, 1966, at Phu Bai Combat Base, South Vietnam, flying the UH-1E "Huey." The squadron participated in numerous operations throughout the Vietnam War. Following the war, the squadron was deactivated on June 15, 1971.

HML-169 was reactivated on January 15, 1977, at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, as part of Marine Aircraft Group 36. The squadron was redesignated as Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169 (HMLA-169) on October 1, 1986, when it transitioned to the AH-1W SuperCobra and UH-1N Huey.

Since its reactivation, HMLA-169 has participated in various operations, including Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. The squadron has also supported numerous humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations. The squadron transitioned to the AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom helicopters in the late 2000s and early 2010s.

Nicknames:

HMLA-169 is known by several nicknames, including "Vipers" and formerly "Raiders".

Aircraft Flown:

• UH-1E Huey (1966-1971)
• UH-1N Huey (1977-early 2010s)
• AH-1W SuperCobra (1986-late 2000s)
• UH-1Y Venom (present)
• AH-1Z Viper (present)