The Indian Navy is scheduled to commission the MH-60R Seahawk, a maritime variant of the Blackhawk helicopter, on March 6, 2024, at INS Garuda, Kochi, marking a pivotal moment in India’s defense modernization journey. The Seahawks squadron, designated as INAS 334, will be commissioned as part of the 24-aircraft FMS contract signed with the US government in February 2020.
This induction signifies a significant boost in the Indian Navy’s maritime capabilities. The MH-60R Seahawk, tailored for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), search and rescue (SAR), medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), and vertical replenishment (VERTREP), has undergone rigorous testing in Indian Reference Atmosphere (IRA) conditions and is fully integrated into the Fleet. The advanced weapons, sensors, and avionics suite make the Seahawks well-suited for the Indian Navy’s maritime security needs, offering enhanced capabilities for both conventional and asymmetric threats.
The MH-60R helicopter will elevate India’s blue-water capabilities, extending the Navy’s operational reach and supporting sustained naval operations across various spectrums and vast maritime domains. Deploying Seahawks in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) will reinforce the Indian Navy’s maritime presence, deterring potential threats and ensuring a secure and safe environment in this strategically crucial region.
The commissioning of the Seahawks underscores the Indian Navy’s steadfast commitment to fortifying maritime security, aligning seamlessly with the Government of India’s visionary goal of ensuring Security And Growth for All in the Region.
