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Indian Navy Commissions INAS 335 ‘Ospreys’ at INS Hansa, Goa - A Strategic Leap in Maritime Security
Panaji, 17 December 2025: In a landmark boost to India’s maritime defence, the Indian Navy on Wednesday commissioned its second MH-60R helicopter squadron - INAS 335 ‘The Ospreys’ - at INS Hansa, Goa. The ceremony was presided over by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, marking a significant step in strengthening naval aviation and security along the Western Seaboard.
This induction builds on the Navy’s modernization drive that began with the first MH-60R squadron at Kochi in March 2024.
Ceremony Highlights
The commissioning event was marked by a traditional water cannon salute and attended by senior naval leadership, including Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, and other distinguished officers and veterans.
INAS 335’s Commissioning Warrant was read out by Captain Dhirender Bisht, followed by the unveiling of the plaque, reflecting the squadron’s readiness to serve India’s strategic interests.
What Makes MH-60R Special?
The MH-60R ‘Romeo Seahawk’ is among the world’s most advanced naval helicopters. Built with cutting-edge sensors, avionics, weapons and communication systems, it significantly enhances the Indian Navy’s maritime capabilities in multiple areas:
- Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
- Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW)
- Maritime Surveillance & Strike
- Search & Rescue (SAR)
- Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC)
- Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP)
Internationally recognised as the “eyes, ears and first hunters” of the fleet, these helicopters provide real-time situational awareness and rapid response across vast maritime zones.
Strategic Impact
Admiral Tripathi emphasised that in today’s complex and contested maritime environment, strengthening naval aviation and deterrence is vital for safeguarding India’s sea lines of communication and growing national interests.
The new squadron will enhance India’s submarine hunting, surface action, surveillance and rescue capabilities, acting as a force multiplier in the Indian Ocean Region.
The induction also comes in the wake of operational successes, where MH-60R helicopters have already proven their worth in exercises like Operation Sindoor, TROPEX-25, and the Tri-Services Exercise 2025.
Why This Matters
- Strategic Edge: Boosts India’s defence posture amid evolving regional security challenges.
- Modern Warfare Capability: Enhances anti-submarine and surface warfare power with world-class technology.
- Operational Readiness: Fully integrated and mission-ready squadron from day one.
Keywords: INAS 335 Ospreys MH-60R squadron commissioning Goa,Indian Navy Western Seaboard aerial warfare capability,MH-60R naval helicopters anti-submarine and multi-role operations
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