Indian Navy commissions first MH-60R Seahawk squadron
The MH-60R Seahawk maritime helicopter comprises the primary capability to detect and engage armed fast boats. (Photo: Sikorsky/Lockheed Martin)
The MH-60R Seahawk helicopters will bring improved functionalities to the Indian Navy and bolster its ability to address diverse maritime challenges.
The inaugural squadron of Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk multirole helicopter has been officially commissioned by the Indian Navy.
Designated as Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 334, the new unit was inaugurated on March 6th at Indian Naval Station Garuda, situated in the southwestern city of Kochi.
During the commissioning ceremony, the Indian Navy showcased four MH-60Rs bearing serial numbers IN751, IN752, IN753, and IN755. However, it was noted that the squadron likely possessed at least six MH-60Rs at the time of commissioning. IN754 was delivered to Indian Naval Station Garuda in July 2022, followed by IN756 in late 2022, according to an Indian Navy official.
The Indian Navy said the helicopters would offer crucial new functionalities in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), search-and-rescue (SAR), medical evacuation and vertical replenishment operations.
The MH-60R, MH-60S Sierra and S-70B maritime helicopters are all variants of the H-60 Black Hawk and derived from the original SH-60B Bravo Seahawk, which was retired by the US Navy in 2015. The helicopter comprises the primary capability to detect and engage armed fast boats.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Czech Republic confirms new Sweden offer on Gripen aircraft lease]()
Czech Republic confirms new Sweden offer on Gripen aircraft lease
The current lease period for the 14 Gripen C/D aircraft flown by the Czech Air Force will come to an end in 2027. This new offer proposes that 12 Gripen aircraft will be leased after 2027.
-
![US Air Force to test Northrop Grumman’s next-gen connectivity capabilities in the CJADC2]()
US Air Force to test Northrop Grumman’s next-gen connectivity capabilities in the CJADC2
NG InSight will be evaluated in support of the USAF Battle Network.
-
![USAF’s VENOM programme advances with modifications and autonomous testing]()
USAF’s VENOM programme advances with modifications and autonomous testing
The first fully modified aircraft is expected to begin testing by the end of 2025, according to the US Air Force.
-
![Embraer and Denel to explore working on C-390 Millennium]()
Embraer and Denel to explore working on C-390 Millennium
The South African aerospace and defence company has signed an MoU with Embraer to collaborate on manufacturing the aircraft as well as MRO work for the C-390 Millennium.
-
![Taurus KEPD 350E missile sees upgrade for German armed forces]()
Taurus KEPD 350E missile sees upgrade for German armed forces
Taurus Systems, a joint venture between MBDA Germany and Saab, was awarded a $161 million 10-year contract in January 2025 to modernise the Taurus 350 missile.
-
![India moves to address fighter jet shortfalls amid rising regional pressures]()
India moves to address fighter jet shortfalls amid rising regional pressures
Delays, dwindling squadrons and global competition spur belated momentum in airpower procurement.
