Indian Navy's Defence Modernisation Advances With MH-60R Seahawk Squadron Commissioning, Here's All About It

The Indian Navy commissioned its first squadron of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters at INS Garuda in Kochi, Kerala, on Wednesday (6 March), a significant step in India's defence modernisation efforts.

The commissioning ceremony was scheduled for 4:30 pm and is considered a pivotal moment for the Indian Navy, as per a report by Hindustan Times.

The MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, part of a 24-aircraft foreign military sales contract signed with the US government in February 2020, are the maritime variant of the Black Hawk helicopter.

The squadron was be inaugurated with the six helicopters that have been delivered to the Navy.

These helicopters are designed for various operations including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, and medical evacuation.

The advanced weapons, sensors, and avionics suite of the Seahawks make them ideal for the Indian Navy's maritime security needs, enhancing capabilities against both conventional and asymmetric threats.

Equipped with AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, MK 54 torpedoes, and advanced precision weapons, the MH-60R helicopters have been integrated into the naval fleet after extensive testing in Indian conditions.

They can operate from frigates, destroyers, and aircraft carriers, further enhancing India's blue-water capabilities.

The commissioning of these helicopters into the INAS 334 squadron is expected to significantly bolster the Navy's operational capability in the Indian Ocean region, particularly in response to increasing Chinese military activities.

The Indian Navy's adoption of the Seahawks reflects its commitment to enhancing maritime security and aligns with the government of India's vision for security and growth in the region.