Goa – Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi on Wednesday commissioned the Indian Navy’s second squadron of American-built MH-60R helicopters, nicknamed ‘The Ospreys,’ significantly strengthening the nation’s maritime capabilities along the western seaboard. The commissioning ceremony at Goa marks a crucial milestone in India’s naval modernization program and enhanced deterrence capabilities across multiple operational domains.
Strategic Importance of MH-60R Helicopters
The addition of MH-60R helicopters represents a transformative enhancement to Indian Navy’s integral aviation capabilities. These multi-role, versatile, and multi-dimensional helicopters will significantly augment operational effectiveness on the Western Seaboard. Admiral Tripathi emphasized that the commissioning marked an important milestone in adding credible capabilities and strengthening deterrence across domains in an increasingly complex maritime environment.
The MH-60R helicopters are manufactured by Lockheed Martin and are recognized globally as Seahawk helicopters. Their world-class sensors, advanced avionics, and potent weapons suite make them invaluable assets for modern naval operations. These capabilities will enhance Maritime Domain Awareness and enable rapid response across critical mission profiles.
Operational Capabilities of MH-60R Helicopters
The MH-60R helicopters commissioned into the Indian Navy are equipped to handle diverse operational requirements. Their primary roles include Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Maritime Strike operations, and Search and Rescue (SAR) missions. The advanced weapons, sensors, and avionics suite make these helicopters versatile and capable assets for addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.
The 335 Squadron, which operates these MH-60R helicopters, is fully operational from Day One, reflecting the Navy’s commitment to expeditious capability induction and integration. Admiral Tripathi noted with satisfaction that the squadron being commissioned is ready to deploy with the Fleet immediately, demonstrating deep institutional commitment to operational readiness.
Proven Track Record in Operations
Before formal commissioning, the MH-60R helicopters had already proven their prowess across multiple missions. These versatile aircraft participated successfully in Operation Sindoor, TROPEX-25, and the recently concluded Tri-Services Exercise 2025. The helicopter has been fully integrated with fleet operations and has proven its worth on numerous occasions, validating the Navy’s decision to induct these advanced platforms.
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The operational deployment of MH-60R helicopters during these exercises demonstrated their seamless integration with existing naval assets and their ability to operate effectively in complex, multi-domain scenarios. This proven capability ensures that the squadron adds immediate value to India’s maritime security architecture.
Historical Significance of Commissioning Date
Admiral Tripathi highlighted the historical significance of the commissioning date, noting it occurred exactly 64 years after the night of December 17-18, 1961, when Operation Vijay began with ships of the Indian Navy sailing into Goa to liberate it from Portuguese rule. This deliberate scheduling connects modern naval capabilities with India’s proud maritime liberation history.
During Operation Vijay, Naval Aviation played a crucial role, with the erstwhile Vikrant and its integral air wing stationed beyond the horizon, securing the approaches to Goa. The commissioning of MH-60R helicopters on this anniversary symbolizes the continuing evolution of Indian naval aviation capabilities.
Complex Maritime Environment
Addressing the strategic context, Admiral Tripathi described the contemporary maritime environment as more complex and contested than ever before. Shifting geopolitics, fast-moving technologies, and an expanding spectrum of threats—from grey-zone activities to supply chain disruptions at sea—are shaping this new reality.
The MH-60R helicopters provide India with enhanced capabilities to navigate this challenging strategic landscape. Strengthening maritime security and deterrence through platforms like these helicopters is fundamental to safeguarding India’s sea lines of communication and growing national maritime interests.
Commissioning Ceremony Details
The formal commissioning of the MH-60R helicopters squadron took place at Goa with appropriate naval ceremony and protocol. Captain Dhirender Bisht, Commanding Officer (Designate), read out the Commissioning Warrant for the unit. The Commissioning Plaque was unveiled by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Tripathi in the presence of Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command.
The ceremony brought together senior naval leadership, emphasizing the institutional importance placed on integrating MH-60R helicopters into the fleet structure. The presence of Western Naval Command leadership underscored the strategic significance of these assets for operations along India’s western maritime frontier.
Enhancement to Western Seaboard Operations
The MH-60R helicopters will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s presence and operational effectiveness along the western seaboard. This region encompasses critical sea lanes, major ports, and approaches to India’s western coastline, making it strategically vital for national security and economic interests.
With the second squadron of MH-60R helicopters now operational, the Navy possesses enhanced capability to monitor, respond to, and control maritime activities in this crucial region. The helicopters’ advanced sensor suite enables superior surveillance and situational awareness across vast ocean areas.
Future of Indian Naval Aviation
The commissioning of the second MH-60R helicopters squadron represents continued investment in cutting-edge naval aviation capabilities. These platforms will serve as force multipliers, extending the reach and effectiveness of surface vessels and providing critical capabilities for multi-domain operations.
The Indian Navy’s statement emphasized that the service will receive a significant fillip in its integral aviation capabilities with this commissioning. The MH-60R helicopters exemplify India’s commitment to maintaining a modern, capable naval force prepared to address 21st-century maritime security challenges.
