MH-60R helicopter. | Photo credit: Thulasi Kakkat
The Indian Navy will induct its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335 (Ospreys), on December 17 at INS Hansa in Goa in the presence of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi.
This event will mark a significant milestone in the Navy’s ongoing drive towards modernization and capability enhancement.
Equipped with advanced weapons, sensors and a state-of-the-art avionics suite, the Indian Navy said the MH-60R is a versatile multi-role platform capable of effectively countering both conventional and asymmetric threats. The helicopter has been fully integrated into fleet operations and has already demonstrated its operational effectiveness several times.
The commissioning of INAS 335 will provide a major boost to the Indian Navy’s integral aviation capabilities and significantly enhance its operational readiness. The induction of the MH-60R will further strengthen India’s blue water capabilities by extending the Navy’s operational reach and enabling sustained, full-spectrum maritime operations in vast maritime areas.
The deployment of Seahawk helicopters in the Indian Ocean region will strengthen the Indian Navy’s maritime presence, deter potential threats and contribute to maintaining a secure and stable environment in this strategically important region.
The Indian Navy commissioned its first squadron of MH-60R multirole helicopters on March 6 last year in Kochi, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its naval aviation capabilities.
Published – 14 Dec 2025 21:00 IST
