Navy commissions MH-60R helicopter squadron INAS 335 ‘Ospreys’ at INS Hansa

INAS 335, the ‘Ospreys’, the second Indian Naval Air Squadron to operate MH-60R helicopters, was commissioned at INS Hansa, Goa, on December 17, 2025. The ceremony was presided over by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), marking another major milestone in the modernisation of Indian naval aviation.

The commissioning follows the induction of the first MH-60R helicopter squadron at Kochi, Kerala, in March 2024. With the induction of the versatile, multi-role MH-60R helicopter on the western seaboard as the first operational squadron, the Navy has significantly enhanced its rotary wing combat and surveillance capabilities.

Addressing the gathering, Admiral Tripathi said the commissioning assumes special significance as 2025 marks 75 years since the Government of India approved the formation of the Fleet Air Arm, a historic decision that gave wings to naval aviation and transformed the Navy into a potent, multi-dimensional force. He highlighted that the maritime environment today is increasingly complex and contested, shaped by shifting geopolitics, rapid technological advances and an expanding spectrum of threats, ranging from grey zone activities to supply chain disruptions at sea.

Recalling earlier capability additions at INS Hansa, the CNS noted that the Navy had commissioned its second P-8I maritime patrol aircraft squadron at the same airbase in 2022, significantly augmenting shore-based fixed-wing operations across multiple domains. Complementing the P-8I fleet, the Navy is also progressing the acquisition of 15 MQ-9B Sea Guardian remotely piloted aircraft, which will enhance persistent maritime surveillance and comprehensive maritime domain awareness across India’s maritime areas of interest.

Rafale fighter aircraft

In this context, Admiral Tripathi underlined the importance of the recent signing of the contract for 26 Rafale-M carrier-borne fighter aircraft, which will strengthen the Navy’s long-range maritime strike, land attack and fleet air defence capabilities.

Although INAS 335 was formally commissioned at Goa, the MH-60R helicopters have already demonstrated their operational effectiveness during Operation Sindoor, TROPEX-25 and the recently concluded Tri-Services Exercise 2025.

The Commissioning Warrant for the squadron was read out by Captain Dhirender Bisht, the Commanding Officer, and the ceremony was marked by a traditional water cannon salute. The event was attended by senior naval officers, veterans and distinguished guests.

The MH-60R is an all-weather, day-and-night capable helicopter designed for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), Search and Rescue (SAR), Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) and Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP). The induction of INAS 335 will significantly augment the Navy’s integral aviation capabilities on the western seaboard.