The Indian Navy has officially commissioned the Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 335, marking the establishment of its second squadron equipped with the MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. The ceremony took place on December 18, 2025, at the Naval Air Station in Goa, underscoring the Indian Navy’s ongoing modernization efforts and commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities.
The MH-60R Seahawk, developed by Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky, is a multi-role helicopter designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue missions. The induction of the MH-60R helicopters into the Indian Navy is part of a broader strategy to bolster India’s naval capabilities amid increasing maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The commissioning of INAS 335 comes just over a year after the first squadron, INAS 333, was commissioned in 2024. The establishment of these squadrons is a significant step in the Indian Navy’s efforts to enhance its operational readiness and versatility. The MH-60R helicopters are equipped with advanced sensors and weapons systems, including torpedoes, missiles, and advanced radar systems, which are expected to significantly improve the Navy’s surveillance and combat capabilities.
The Indian Navy’s acquisition of the MH-60R helicopters is part of a larger procurement deal signed with the United States in 2020, which included the purchase of 24 helicopters at an estimated cost of $2.6 billion. This deal is seen as a crucial component of the U.S.-India defense partnership, which has been strengthening in recent years amid shared concerns over regional security dynamics, particularly in the context of China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by senior naval officials, including the Chief of Naval Staff, who emphasized the importance of the new squadron in enhancing the Navy’s operational capabilities. The Chief of Naval Staff highlighted that the induction of the MH-60R helicopters would not only bolster the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities but also enhance its ability to conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
The establishment of INAS 335 is also significant in the context of India’s broader defense strategy, which aims to develop a robust maritime force capable of securing its interests in the IOR. The Indian Navy has been increasingly active in conducting joint exercises with other navies, including the United States, Japan, and Australia, as part of efforts to enhance interoperability and strengthen regional security partnerships.
In addition to the operational benefits, the induction of the MH-60R helicopters is expected to have implications for India’s defense manufacturing sector. The Indian government has been promoting the “Make in India” initiative, which aims to boost domestic defense production and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. The technology transfer associated with the MH-60R program is anticipated to provide opportunities for Indian defense manufacturers to engage in the production of components and systems for these helicopters.
The commissioning of INAS 335 also reflects the Indian Navy’s commitment to maintaining a technological edge in an increasingly competitive maritime environment. As regional tensions continue to evolve, the Navy’s ability to operate advanced platforms like the MH-60R will be critical in ensuring maritime security and safeguarding India’s interests.
Looking ahead, the Indian Navy plans to further expand its fleet of MH-60R helicopters, with additional acquisitions expected in the coming years. The successful integration of these helicopters into naval operations will be closely monitored, as the Navy seeks to maximize their capabilities in various operational scenarios.
In conclusion, the commissioning of INAS 335 represents a significant milestone in the Indian Navy’s modernization efforts and its strategic response to evolving maritime security challenges. The establishment of this second squadron of MH-60R helicopters is expected to enhance the Navy’s operational capabilities, strengthen regional partnerships, and contribute to the development of India’s defense manufacturing sector. As the Indian Navy continues to evolve, the implications of this development will be felt across the broader Indo-Pacific region, where maritime security remains a critical concern.
