U.S. delivers another MH-60R Seahawk to the Indian Navy, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The Indian Navy recently received another MH-60R Seahawk multi-role naval helicopter from the United States.
• This delivery brings the total number of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters to 21 out of the 24 ordered.
• The acquisition is part of a $946 million deal signed in 2020 under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
• Two more helicopters are expected to arrive this week, completing the full order of 24.
• The MH-60R Seahawk significantly enhances India's anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance capabilities.

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Detailed Insights:

• The MH-60R Seahawk, often referred to as the "Romeo," is a multi-mission naval helicopter manufactured by Lockheed Martin.
• Its primary functions include anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and maritime surveillance, along with search and rescue and medical evacuation.
• India signed the deal for 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters in 2020 to replace the Indian Navy's aging Sea King fleet.
• In December 2025, India also signed a sustainment package worth approximately $946 million (₹7,995 crore) to ensure the long-term operational readiness and support for the fleet.
• These advanced helicopters are equipped with sophisticated sensors such as dipping sonar, sonobuoys, and multi-mode radar, and can carry weapons like Mk-54 torpedoes and Hellfire missiles.
• The Indian Navy commissioned its first MH-60R squadron, INAS 334 'Seahawks', at INS Garuda, Kochi, in March 2024.
• The second squadron, INAS 335 'Ospreys', was raised at INS Hansa, Goa, in December 2025.
• This ongoing delivery strengthens the defense partnership between India and the United States, contributing to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW): A branch of naval warfare focused on detecting, tracking, and neutralizing submarines using specialized sensors and weapons.
• Dipping Sonar: A sonar system lowered from an airborne platform, such as a helicopter, into the water to detect submerged objects like submarines.
• Sonobuoys: Disposable sonar devices dropped from aircraft into the sea to detect and transmit acoustic data, primarily for submarine detection.
• Foreign Military Sales (FMS): A U.S. government program that facilitates defense trade between the U.S. and its partner nations, ensuring reliability and transparency.