Commissioning of INAS 335
INAS 335 Ospreys Strengthen Naval Aviation: The Indian Navy is set to commission INAS 335, also known as Ospreys, on 17 December 2025 at INS Hansa, Goa. This squadron will operate the advanced MH-60R Seahawk multi-role helicopters. The commissioning marks a major step in strengthening India’s naval aviation capability.
The ceremony will be attended by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, the Chief of the Naval Staff. The induction reflects the Navy’s continued focus on operational readiness and technological modernisation. It also signals India’s intent to maintain maritime superiority in its areas of interest.
Role of MH-60R Seahawk Helicopters
The MH-60R Seahawk is a highly versatile maritime combat helicopter. It is designed to perform anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, maritime surveillance, and search and rescue operations. These helicopters are capable of operating both from shore bases and naval warships.
Their integration with fleet operations significantly enhances the Indian Navy’s reach at sea. The helicopters improve response time during emergencies and combat situations. This makes them a critical force multiplier in modern naval warfare.
Static GK fact: The MH-60R is a naval variant of the Seahawk family, originally developed for ship-based operations with folding rotors for compact storage.
Advanced Combat and Surveillance Capabilities
The helicopters are equipped with advanced radar, dipping sonar, and electronic warfare systems. These systems enable effective detection and tracking of submarines and hostile surface vessels. The platform can counter both conventional and asymmetric maritime threats.
The avionics suite allows real-time data sharing with naval ships and command centres. This improves coordination during fleet operations. Such network-centric capability is vital in modern maritime combat environments.
Strategic Importance in the Indian Ocean Region
The induction of INAS 335 enhances maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean Region. The IOR is a crucial global trade route and an area of growing strategic competition. Improved surveillance and response capabilities help safeguard sea lanes and national interests.
The squadron supports India’s broader naval modernisation efforts under long-term capability development plans. It strengthens India’s ability to conduct sustained operations across vast maritime spaces.
Static GK Tip: INS Hansa in Goa is the primary naval air station of India and supports fixed-wing aircraft and rotary-wing operations for the Western Naval Command.
Contribution to Naval Modernisation
The commissioning of a second MH-60R squadron reflects steady progress in upgrading naval aviation assets. It reduces dependence on aging platforms and improves mission reliability. Modern helicopters also enhance interoperability with friendly navies during joint exercises.
This development underscores India’s commitment to maintaining a technologically advanced and combat-ready navy. It aligns with the broader vision of ensuring maritime security and stability in regional waters.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
INAS 335 Ospreys Strengthen Naval Aviation:
| Topic | Detail |
| Squadron Name | INAS 335 (Ospreys) |
| Commissioning Date | 17 December 2025 |
| Location | INS Hansa, Goa |
| Aircraft Type | MH-60R Seahawk helicopters |
| Primary Roles | ASW, ASuW, maritime surveillance, SAR |
| Naval Chief | Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi |
| Strategic Region | Indian Ocean Region |
| Operational Impact | Enhanced naval aviation and maritime awareness |
