Navy inducts 2nd Seahawk chopper squadron in boost to anti-sub combat, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The Indian Navy commissioned its second MH 60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335, nicknamed ‘Ospreys,’ at INS Hansa, Goa.
• These US-origin Seahawks will enhance India's anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance capabilities.
• India has acquired 24 MH 60R helicopters from the US for over Rs 15,000 crore to replace the aging Sea King helicopters.
• The Ministry of Defence signed a Rs 7,995-crore sustainment pact with the US for the MH 60R fleet's maintenance.

Detailed Insights:

• INAS 335 is the second squadron, following Indian Naval Air Squadron 334 inducted in March 2024, to operate the MH 60R helicopters.
• The MH 60R is fully integrated with the Navy's fleet and can operate from shore bases, aircraft carriers, and large ships, enhancing operational flexibility.
• These helicopters are designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and vertical replenishment.
• The MH 60R can counter conventional threats like submarines and ships, and asymmetric threats like maritime terror and piracy.
• The sustainment pact with the US covers spares, repairs, and technical support, ensuring the operational readiness of the MH 60R fleet.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW): Military operations to detect, track, and neutralize enemy submarines.
• Asymmetric Threats: Non-conventional threats using concealment tactics by non-state actors.
• Vertical Replenishment: Transfer of supplies by helicopter between ships at sea or from shore to ship.