Indian Navy to commission MH 60R ‘Seahawks’ helicopter squadron
04 Mar 2024
The Indian Navy will on Wednesday commission INAS 34, a new squadron of the newly inducted MH 60R Seahawk multi-role helicopter at INS Garuda, Kochi.
The induction of the MH 60R, a maritime variant of the Blackhawk helicopter, marks a major milestone in India’s defence modernisation programme.
Part of a 24-helicopter contract that India signed with the US government in February 2020, the MH 60R squadron will significantly improve the Navy’s operational capabilities.
The helicopter is designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), search and rescue (SAR), medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and vertical replenishment (VERTREP).
The commissioning of the helicopters comes after rigorous tests by the Indian Navy in the prevailing conditions. The helicopters, equipped with advanced weapons, sensors and avionics, have been fully integrated into the Naval fleet.
The MH 60R helicopter would enhance India’s blue-water capabilities, extending the operational reach of the Navy and ensure a secure and safe environment in this strategically important Indian Ocean Region.
The commissioning of the helicopter squadron coincides the commissioning of a Naval air base in the Minicoy island of Lakshadweep.