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
-
![July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough]()
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
![July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop]()
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
-
![FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne]()
FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne
Bell Flight’s modular open-systems approach for the US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne could open doors for international allies and suppliers once locked out by closed rotorcraft architectures.
-
![Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)]()
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
-
![US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist]()
US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist
The USAF is looking for commercial avionics solutions to improve the T-38 Talon’s reliability, readiness and flight safety as continued T-7A Red Hawk delays increase the likelihood that the legacy trainer will remain in service longer than planned.
-
![British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty]()
British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty
The UK’s choice of the Tekever AR5 for Project Corvus reflects a wider shift in military drone procurement towards solutions that centre on sovereignty and domestic production, moving away from overseas reliance.
