The Indian Navy is poised to enhance its aerial capabilities significantly with the upcoming commissioning of its second MH-60R Seahawk helicopter squadron, INAS 335, known as the Ospreys. Scheduled for December 17, 2025, the event will take place at INS Hansa in Goa and marks a pivotal moment in the Navy’s ongoing aviation modernization efforts.
The ceremony will be officiated by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, who will formally induct this new squadron into the Navy’s frontline operations. This addition is expected to bolster the operational efficiency of the Indian Navy at a time when maritime security challenges are growing in complexity.
The MH-60R helicopters are equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, advanced avionics, and a range of weapon systems, significantly enhancing the Navy’s capacity to address both conventional and asymmetric threats. Capable of multi-role functions, the helicopters will play key roles in anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, as well as in surveillance and search-and-rescue operations.
Navy officials have reported that the MH-60R aircraft have already been effectively integrated into fleet operations, showcasing their operational capabilities in various scenarios. The introduction of INAS 335 is expected to provide a substantial boost to the Navy’s aviation units, further enhancing maritime domain awareness and combat readiness across the Indian Ocean Region.
The commissioning of the Ospreys squadron is a testament to the Indian Navy’s continuous drive for capability enhancement and technological modernization. As the maritime security landscape evolves, the Navy remains committed to maintaining a high level of operational preparedness to address emerging threats and challenges effectively.
