The Indian Navy commissioned its second MH-60R helicopter, INAS 335 (Ospreys) at INS Hansa, in Vasco, on 17 December 2025. | Photo credit: ANI
INAS 335, ‘Ospreys’, India’s second naval aviation squadron operating MH-60R helicopters, was commissioned at INS Hansa, Goa, on 17 December 2025. The ceremony was presided over by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), marking another significant nautical mile in the Indian world.
The commissioning follows the induction of the first MH-60R helicopter squadron in Kochi, Kerala in March 2024. By inducting the versatile, multi-role MH-60R helicopter on the West Coast as the first operational squadron, the Navy has significantly enhanced its rotary-wing combat and surveillance capabilities.
Addressing the gathering, Admiral Tripathi said the commissioning takes on special significance as 2025 marks 75 years since the Government of India approved the creation of the Fleet Air Arm, a historic decision that gave wings to naval aviation and transformed the Navy into a powerful, multi-dimensional force. He emphasized that today’s maritime environment is increasingly complex and contested, shaped by changing geopolitics, rapid technological advances and a widening spectrum of threats, from gray zone activities to offshore supply chain disruptions.
Citing earlier capability additions at INS Hansa, CNS noted that the Navy commissioned its second squadron of P-8I maritime patrol aircraft at the same airbase in 2022, significantly expanding shore-based fixed-wing operations in many areas. To complement the P-8I fleet, the Navy is also proceeding with the acquisition of 15 MQ-9B Sea Guardian remotely piloted aircraft that will enhance sustained maritime surveillance and comprehensive maritime domain awareness across Indian maritime areas of concern.
Rafale fighter jet
In this context, Admiral Tripathi highlighted the importance of the recent contract signing of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets, which will enhance the Navy’s long-range maritime strike, land attack and fleet air defense capabilities.
Although INAS 335 was formally commissioned in Goa, the MH-60R helicopters have already demonstrated their operational effectiveness during Operation Sindoor, TROPEX-25 and the recently concluded Tri-Services 2025 exercise.
The commissioning permit for the squadron was read out by Captain Dhirender Bisht, Officer Commanding, and the ceremony was marked by the traditional water cannon salute. The event was attended by senior naval officers, veterans and distinguished guests.
The MH-60R is an all-weather day and night helicopter designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), search and rescue (SAR), medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and vertical replenishment (VERTREP). The induction of the INAS 335 will significantly expand the Navy’s West Coast integral aviation capabilities.
Published – 17 Dec 2025 20:51 IST
