Indian Navy Enhances Western Seaboard Operations with INAS 335 Commissioning of MH-60R Helicopter Squadron at INS Hansa
The Indian Navy has officially commissioned its second MH-60R Seahawk helicopter squadron, INAS 335 'The Ospreys', at INS Hansa in Goa on December 17, 2025. This new addition represents a significant advancement in enhancing naval aviation strength along the western seaboard.
The commissioning ceremony was led by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff. This development follows the induction of the first MH-60R squadron in Kochi, Kerala, in March 2024, as part of the Navy's strategic plan to introduce advanced multi-role helicopters in a phased manner.
The ceremony featured the reading of the Commissioning Warrant by Captain Dhirender Bisht, Commanding Officer of INAS 335, followed by the unveiling of the Commissioning Plaque by Mrs Laila Swaminathan, President of the Naval Wives Welfare Association (NWWA), Western Region. The event concluded with a water cannon salute, marking the formal induction of the squadron.
Among the senior naval leaders in attendance were Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command; Vice Admiral Rahul Vilas Gokhale, Chief of Staff, Western Naval Command; Rear Admiral Ajay D Theophilus, Flag Officer Commanding Goa Naval Area and Flag Officer Naval Aviation; and former Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Karambir Singh (Retd), along with other veterans and distinguished guests.
The MH-60R Seahawk is an advanced multi-role helicopter capable of operating in all weather conditions, day or night. It is designed for a variety of naval missions, which include:
| Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) |
| Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) |
| Search and Rescue (SAR) |
| Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) |
| Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP) |
The introduction of INAS 335 is expected to greatly boost the Indian Navy's aviation capabilities, enhancing surveillance, striking power, and operational reach along the Western Seaboard.
With the commissioning of 'The Ospreys', the Indian Navy underscores its commitment to modernization and force enhancement, ensuring a high level of maritime security readiness to address emerging challenges in the Indian Ocean Region.
