The Militär-Helikopter-Rettungsdienst (MHR) (French Service de sauvetage militaire héliporté SMH) was a helicopter unit of the Swiss Air Force, and belonged to the Überwachungsgeschwader.

In the federalism system of Switzerland, rescue services are not within the scope of the Confederation, but are the responsibility of the cantons, municipalities and cities.

The Swiss military also recognized the benefits of air rescue shortly after the introduction of helicopters into its service in 1952.

However, fuel reserves for the use of helicopters in emergencies were already provided in 1959 at eight airfields and the proving ground in Andermatt, which may be described as the forerunner of today's rescue organization.

Since 1960, the Swiss Air Force had a permanent rescue organization with specially equipped helicopters during working hours.

The MHR was working in close contact with the REGA, but stayed back, in order not to restrict their employment possibilities.