The Indian Navy has officially commissioned a new squadron of MH-60R helicopters, designated INAS 335 and named “Ospreys,” in a ceremony held on December 20, 2025. This move is part of India’s broader strategy to enhance its maritime capabilities in response to increasing submarine activity in the Indian Ocean, particularly from the People’s Republic of China.
The commissioning ceremony took place at the Naval Air Station in Goa and was attended by senior naval officials, including the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R. Hari Kumar. The introduction of the MH-60R helicopters, which are equipped with advanced sensors and weapons systems, is seen as a significant step in bolstering the Indian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities.
The MH-60R Seahawk, developed by Lockheed Martin, is a multi-role helicopter that can perform a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue operations. The aircraft is equipped with advanced radar, sonar, and weapon systems, allowing it to detect and engage submarines and surface vessels effectively. The induction of the Ospreys squadron is expected to enhance the Indian Navy’s operational readiness and its ability to monitor and secure vital sea lanes in the region.
The commissioning of the Ospreys comes amid growing concerns over China’s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean. Over the past decade, China has significantly increased its submarine fleet, with reports indicating that the country has been deploying submarines to the Indian Ocean more frequently. This has raised alarms in New Delhi, as the Indian Navy seeks to maintain a strategic balance in the region.
India’s response to these developments has included strengthening its naval capabilities through various means, including the acquisition of new platforms and technologies. The induction of the MH-60R helicopters is part of a larger effort to modernize the Indian Navy, which has been investing in new ships, submarines, and aircraft to enhance its operational capabilities.
The Indian government has also been actively pursuing partnerships with other countries to bolster its maritime security. The United States has been a key partner in this regard, with India acquiring 24 MH-60R helicopters as part of a $2.6 billion deal signed in 2020. The first batch of these helicopters was delivered to India in July 2021, and the commissioning of the Ospreys squadron marks a significant milestone in the operationalization of this acquisition.
The strategic implications of the commissioning of the Ospreys are significant. The Indian Navy’s enhanced ASW capabilities will allow it to better monitor and counter potential threats from Chinese submarines operating in the Indian Ocean. This is particularly important given the region’s geopolitical significance, as it serves as a crucial maritime trade route for energy supplies and goods.
Furthermore, the commissioning of the Ospreys squadron aligns with India’s broader maritime strategy, which emphasizes the importance of securing its maritime interests and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region. 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 strengthen regional security cooperation.
The commissioning of the Ospreys also reflects India’s commitment to enhancing its indigenous defense capabilities. 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 MH-60R helicopters, while acquired from the United States, will be supported by Indian industry for maintenance and servicing, contributing to the development of local defense capabilities.
In conclusion, the commissioning of the INAS 335 Ospreys squadron represents a significant development in the Indian Navy’s efforts to enhance its maritime capabilities in response to evolving security challenges in the Indian Ocean. As China continues to expand its naval presence in the region, India’s focus on strengthening its anti-submarine warfare capabilities will play a crucial role in maintaining regional stability and securing its maritime interests. The Ospreys squadron is expected to be a vital asset in this endeavor, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in the Indo-Pacific security landscape.
