New Delhi: The Indian Navy is set to induct three more MH-60R Seahawk multirole helicopters, enhancing its anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
A Seahawk helicopter was delivered to the Navy at Kochi last week by US firm Lockheed Martin, with two more expected this week. The US Embassy in India, in a post on X, said, “Another MH-60R Seahawk naval helicopter touched down on Indian shores! Developed by Lockheed Martin, this highly equipped helicopter was delivered to the Indian Navy at Kochi last week, with two more arriving this week. Thrilled to see the US-India defence partnership growing stronger.”
India had signed a $2.4 billion deal with the US government in February 2020 for procurement of 24 helicopters. With 18 already delivered, the addition of three more will take the total to 21.
The Navy raised its first Seahawk squadron, INAS 334, at INS Garuda in Kochi in March 2024, while the second squadron, INAS 335 (Ospreys), was raised at INS Hansa in Goa last year.
The MH-60R Seahawk is designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuation and vertical replenishment operations.
The helicopters are intended to replace the Sea King 42/42A fleet and are capable of operating from frontline warships and aircraft carriers, providing enhanced surveillance and strike capability.
Officials said the helicopters have been tested in Indian conditions and integrated into the fleet, with advanced sensors, weapons and avionics suited to maritime security operations.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: deccanchronicle.com
