Indian Navy Commissions First Squadron Of MH 60R Seahawk At INS Garuda In Kochi

Indian Navy on Wednesday commissioned INAS 334, the first MH 60R squadron at INS Garuda in Kochi.

INAS 334, the first squadron of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters was commissioned on March 6. ( Image Source :PTI )

The Indian Navy on Wednesday commissioned its first MH 60 R Squadron christened Indian Naval Air Squadron 334 (INAS 334) in the presence of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Adm R Hari Kumar at INS Garuda in Kochi. It will be commanded by Captain M Abhisheik Ram. The landmark event marked the induction of the versatile helicopters that have been employed to protect maritime epicenters and came in at the time when India is facing heightened tensions in the waters amid the Red Sea crisis that continues to deepen. 

MH 60R Seahawks, popularly known as 'Romeos' are helicopters manufactured by a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin called Sikorsky. The helicopter is a maritime version of the Blackhawk chopper and has undergone significant customisation, making it suitable for dealing with the challenges in the region.

"The MH 60R's flexibility, reach and versatility will supplement our Mission Based Deployments, and consequently, our combat readiness" Indian Navy's press release stated.

The release also stated that the MH 60R helicopters will strengthen India's efforts towards a safe and secure environment in the Indian Ocean Region.  

Upon his arrival at the venue, CNS Hari Kumar was presented with a Guard of Honor by 50 men. The commissioning ceremony began with the recitation of the invocation followed by the reading of the Squadron's Commissioning Warrant by Commanding Officer Ram. 

Subsequently, the CNS unveiled the Commissioning Plaque in the presence of Vice Admiral V Srinivas who took over as the 30th Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command V Srinivas in December 2023.

Several Flag Officers and senior officials including V Adm Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff,  V Adm Sanjay J Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Naval Command, and V Adm AN Pramod, Director of General Naval Operations, also attended the event.

In his address, the Chief of the Naval Staff described the newly inducted helicopters as one of the most potent multi-role helicopters across the globe. He stated that the MH 60R helicopters will improve India's maritime capabilities substantially and secure national interests.

Underlining the Indian Navy's commitment to protecting, preserving, promoting, and pursuing India's national interests in the maritime domain, he stated: "With their cutting-edge sensors and multi-mission capabilities, MH 60Rs will augment our maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities."

The CNS also lauded the officers and sailors of 'Seahawks' for the commissioning of INAS 334 and urged the crew to continue striving for excellence and be prepared to keep the nation's waters safe, stable, and, secure.