MH-60R Seahawk helicopter of Indian Navy

The MH-60R Seahawk is a multi-role maritime helicopter operated by the Indian Navy. It is the Indian variant of the Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk, a twin turboshaft engine, multi-mission helicopter derived from the UH-60 Black Hawk and specifically designed for naval operations. The MH-60R is equipped to perform anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), search and rescue (SAR), medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), and vertical replenishment (VERTREP), making it a versatile platform for enhancing the Indian Navy's operational capabilities across maritime domains¹².

Induction into Indian Navy

The Indian Navy commissioned the MH-60R Seahawk into service as the INAS 334 Squadron on 6 March 2024 at INS Garuda, Kochi. This landmark event marked the formal induction of these versatile and capable helicopters in the first MH-60R Naval Air Squadron, commanded by Captain M Abhisheik Ram. The contract to acquire 24 MH-60R helicopters was signed in February 2020 under the U.S. Foreign Military Sale (FMS) program¹³.

Capabilities and Features

The MH-60R is designed with advanced weapons, sensor, and avionics suites, tailored for maritime security needs. Its capabilities include:

• Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) using advanced sonar systems and torpedoes
• Anti-surface warfare (ASuW) with targeting and missile systems
• Search and rescue (SAR) operations
• Medical evacuation (MEDEVAC)
• Vertical replenishment (VERTREP) for logistical support

The helicopter has been rigorously tested in Indian Reference Atmosphere (IRA) conditions to ensure full integration into the Indian Navy fleet. Its folding main rotor blades and hinged tail reduce its footprint, enabling deployment aboard a wide variety of Indian naval ships, such as frigates, destroyers, and aircraft carriers¹².

Strategic Importance

The MH-60R Seahawk's deployment enhances the Indian Navy's maritime reach and ability to conduct sustained operations over vast maritime regions including the strategically critical Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Its multi-role design enables it to counter both conventional and asymmetric threats, supporting India's goal of securing its maritime interests and regional security¹⁴.

This induction aligns with the Government of India's vision for "Security and Growth for All in the Region," reflecting a steadfast commitment to strengthening maritime security and projecting naval power in the Indo-Pacific theatre¹.

See Also

• Indian Navy
• INAS 334 Squadron
• Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk