Indian Navy Inducts 2nd MH-60R Squadron INAS 335 at INS Hansa

Indian Navy Inducts 2nd MH-60R Squadron INAS 335 at INS Hansa

 

Goa: The Indian Navy on Wednesday commissioned its second MH-60R multi-role helicopter squadron, INAS 335 (Ospreys), at INS Hansa in Goa, marking a major enhancement in its maritime combat and surveillance capabilities. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi presided over the commissioning ceremony held at 2:30 pm.

The induction of INAS 335 reflects the Navy’s accelerated push towards modernisation and heightened operational readiness amid evolving security dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region.

The MH-60R Seahawk, among the most advanced naval helicopters globally, is equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, advanced avionics and a potent weapons suite. The platform is optimised for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare, maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and counter-asymmetric operations.

Fully integrated with frontline warships and network-centric naval operations, the MH-60R significantly enhances the Navy’s operational envelope—from detecting and tracking submarines beneath the seas to engaging surface targets beyond the visual horizon. Its advanced sonar, radar and electro-optical systems enable real-time intelligence sharing, improving situational awareness and combat effectiveness.

Naval officials said the MH-60R has already proven its operational value, emerging as a versatile force multiplier capable of addressing both conventional threats and emerging non-traditional challenges.

With the commissioning of INAS 335, the Indian Navy receives a decisive boost to its integral aviation strength, reinforcing maritime dominance, deterrence capability and mission readiness across critical sea lanes in the Indian Ocean Region.

 

 

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