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Indian Navy's New 'Osprey' Squadron: How MH-60R Helicopters Boost Maritime Power

The Indian Navy is set to commission its second squadron of advanced MH-60R helicopters. This new unit, named INAS 335 'Osprey,' will be based at INS Hansa in Goa. Navy officials say these helicopters are crucial for maritime security and undersea warfare. The fleet's advanced technology allows it to operate in all conditions, acting as the frontline eyes and ears of the navy.

Key Points: Indian Navy Commissions Second MH-60R Squadron INAS 335 at Goa

  • The squadron will significantly boost anti-submarine warfare and surface surveillance capabilities
  • MH-60R helicopters are all-weather, day-night platforms with advanced sensors and weapons
  • The induction strengthens the Navy's operational footprint across vast Indian maritime spaces
  • The versatile aircraft enhances rapid response for search, rescue, and conventional threat missions
2 min read

Goa: Indian Navy to commission second MH-60R squadron INAS 335 at INS Hansa

The Indian Navy commissions its second MH-60R 'Seahawk' helicopter squadron, INAS 335 'Osprey,' at INS Hansa, Goa, enhancing maritime surveillance and combat readiness.

"It will function as the eyes, ears and first hunters of the fleet, providing real-time situational awareness... - Captain Dhirender Bisht, Commanding Officer INAS 335"

Hansa, December 17

The Indian Navy will achieve another key milestone on Wednesday with the commissioning of INAS 335 'Osprey, ' its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, at INS Hansa in Goa, further strengthening its maritime surveillance and combat capabilities.

The commissioning ceremony will be held in the presence of Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, who will be the chief guest at the event. With the induction of the squadron, the Navy's operational footprint in maritime security, surveillance, and undersea warfare is expected to receive a major boost.

Speaking to ANI, Commanding Officer of INAS 335, Captain Dhirender Bisht, NM, said the squadron's induction marks a crucial step toward enhancing the Navy's operational readiness.

"The commissioning of INAS 335 marks the induction of the Indian Navy second MH-60R Squadron, significantly enhancing our maritime surveillance, strike and multirole helicopter capability. It is a major milestone in strengthening fleet operations and maritime security. It will function as the eyes, ears and first hunters of the fleet, providing real-time situational awareness, undersea warfare capability and rapid response across our vast maritime spaces," he said.

Highlighting the operational strengths of the MH-60R helicopters, Senior Pilot of INAS 335, Lieutenant Commander Prakhar Bhargava, described the platform as the most advanced helicopter currently in service with the Indian Navy.

"MH-60R is the most advanced helicopter with the Indian Navy. It is an all-weather aircraft that can operate both day and night. Its exceptional stability, long endurance and state-of-the-art weapons and sensors make it a potent platform for any operational environment for the Indian Navy, whether it is anti-submarine warfare, surface surveillance or search and rescue missions. The versatility and modern technology of the aircraft provide the Indian Navy the capability to carry out any mission in the toughest conditions," he said.

The advanced weapons, sensors, and avionics suite make the helicopter a versatile and capable asset for the Indian Navy, enhancing its ability to address conventional and asymmetric threats. The aircraft has been fully integrated with fleet operations and has proven its worth on numerous occasions.

The Indian Navy will receive a significant fillip in its integral aviation capabilities with the commissioning of the squadron.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Great to see our Navy getting stronger. But I hope this also translates into more opportunities for our domestic defence industry. We should aim to build such advanced platforms ourselves in the future under Make in India.
R
Rohit P
Stationing it at INS Hansa in Goa is a strategic move. Perfect location to cover the western seaboard. Proud moment for all Indians. Our sailors and officers deserve the best equipment to protect our waters.
S
Sarah B
As someone who follows global defence tech, the MH-60R is indeed a formidable platform. Its all-weather, day-night capability is crucial. A solid step for the Indian Navy's modernization. The integration with fleet operations is key.
V
Vikram M
"Eyes, ears, and first hunters of the fleet" – what a powerful description by the Commanding Officer. This significantly boosts our anti-submarine and surveillance capabilities. A timely induction given the current security scenario.
K
Karthik V
Good development, but the cost is always a concern. I hope the Navy is also investing adequately in training and maintenance to ensure these advanced machines remain operational and effective for their full service life.
M
Meera T
Wonderful! 🇮🇳 Strengthening our Navy is vital for a nation surrounded by water on three sides

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