In a significant boost to India’s maritime combat and surveillance capabilities, the Indian Navy will commission its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335 (Ospreys), on 17 December 2025 at INS Hansa, Goa. The commissioning ceremony will be held in the presence of Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), marking another milestone in the Navy’s ongoing modernisation and force-augmentation efforts.
A Pivotal Step in Naval Modernisation
The commissioning of INAS 335 represents a pivotal moment in the Indian Navy’s roadmap to enhance its integral aviation strength. The induction of the MH-60R Seahawk helicopters significantly upgrades the Navy’s ability to operate across the full spectrum of maritime warfare, including anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), surveillance, search and rescue, and special operations.
With increasing maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the new squadron will play a crucial role in ensuring operational readiness, deterrence, and sea control.
MH-60R Helicopters: A Versatile Force Multiplier
Equipped with state-of-the-art weapons, sensors, and avionics, the MH-60R helicopters are among the most advanced multi-role maritime helicopters in service globally. Their cutting-edge mission systems enable real-time data sharing, enhanced situational awareness, and precision engagement of both surface and sub-surface threats.
The helicopters are capable of addressing conventional military challenges as well as asymmetric threats, including piracy, maritime terrorism, and hostile non-state actors, thereby significantly expanding the Navy’s operational envelope.
Seamless Integration with Fleet Operations
The Indian Navy stated that the MH-60R aircraft have already been fully integrated with fleet operations and have repeatedly demonstrated their effectiveness during operational deployments and exercises. Their ability to operate seamlessly from frontline warships enhances the Navy’s reach, responsiveness, and combat endurance.
With the commissioning of INAS 335, the Navy will receive a substantial fillip to its integral aviation capabilities, reinforcing its combat preparedness and operational flexibility across vast maritime spaces.
INS Hansa: A Strategic Aviation Hub
INS Hansa, Goa — the Navy’s premier air station — continues to serve as the backbone of naval aviation training and operational readiness. The commissioning of INAS 335 at this strategic base underscores its role as a centre of excellence for rotary-wing aviation and maritime air operations.
Conclusion
The commissioning of INAS 335 (Ospreys) marks a decisive step forward in the Indian Navy’s transformation into a technologically advanced, network-centric maritime force. As India strengthens its naval presence to safeguard national interests and regional stability, the induction of advanced MH-60R helicopters reinforces the Navy’s ability to deter threats, respond swiftly to contingencies, and uphold security across the Indian Ocean Region.
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Source: PIB
