Indian Navy To Induct 3 More Mh-60R Seahawks

New Delhi: The Indian Navy is preparing to commission three more MH-60R Seahawk multi-purpose helicopters, which will enhance its anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

A Seahawk helicopter was delivered to the Navy in Kochi last week by US firm Lockheed Martin and two more helicopters are expected this week. The US Embassy in India said in a post on

India signed a $2.4 billion deal with the US government in February 2020 to purchase 24 helicopters. Adding three more units to the 18 already delivered will bring the total number to 21.

The Navy raised its first Seahawk squadron, INAS 334, at INS Garuda in Kochi in March 2024, while the second squadron, INAS 335 (Ospreys), was raised at INS Hansa in Goa last year.

The MH-60R Seahawk is designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuation and vertical replenishment operations.

The helicopters are intended to replace the Sea King 42/42A fleet and are capable of operating from front-line warships and aircraft carriers, providing enhanced surveillance and strike capability.

Officials said the helicopters were tested in Indian conditions and integrated into the fleet with advanced sensors, weapons and avionics suitable for maritime security operations.