Indian Navy to Commission INAS 335 (Ospreys) In Goa

The Indian Navy is scheduled to commission INAS 335 (Ospreys), its second squadron of MH-60R multi-role helicopters, on 17 December 2025 at INS Hansa, Goa. The ceremony will be led by the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi in attendance. This commissioning thus forms a very important milestone in the Navy’s efforts to continue the process of modernizing its aviation arm and improve operational readiness.

About INAS 335 (Ospreys)

• Aircraft Type: MH-60R Seahawk helicopters
• Primary Role: Multi-role maritime operations including anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and search & rescue (SAR)

Capabilities

• Advanced weapons, sensors, and avionics suite
• Fully integrated with fleet operations
• Adaptable to conventional and asymmetric maritime threats

Strategic Significance

• Enhances integral naval aviation
• Strengthens maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)
• Supports India’s modernisation efforts under the Maritime Capability Development Plan

Key Features of the MH-60R Helicopter

• The MH-60R is equipped with a state-of-the-art suite of weapons, sensors, and avionics, making it a highly capable maritime combat platform.
• It can undertake anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, maritime surveillance, and search and rescue operations.
• Its advanced radar, sonar systems, and electronic warfare equipment enable effective operations against both conventional and asymmetric threats, such as submarines and hostile surface vessels.
• The helicopter’s ability to operate seamlessly with naval ships significantly enhances the Navy’s reach and response time.

Key Takeaways

• INAS 335 (Ospreys) will be commissioned on 17 December 2025.
• The squadron will operate MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.
• The commissioning ceremony will be held at INS Hansa, Goa.
• Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi is the current Chief of the Naval Staff.
• MH-60R helicopters enhance anti-submarine, anti-surface, and surveillance capabilities.