Welcome to ONLiNE UPSC

Indian Navy's INAS 335: A Leap Forward in Maritime Warfare

Enhancing Operational Readiness with MH-60R Helicopters

Indian Navy's INAS 335: A Leap Forward in Maritime Warfare

  • 15 Dec, 2025
  • 469

Introduction to INAS 335 Squadron

The Indian Navy is set to commission INAS 335 (Ospreys), its second squadron of MH-60R multi-role helicopters, on 17 December 2025 at INS Hansa, Goa. This significant event will be presided over by the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi. The commissioning marks a crucial milestone in the Navy's ongoing efforts to modernize its aviation capabilities and enhance operational readiness.

About INAS 335 (Ospreys)

  • Aircraft Type: MH-60R Seahawk helicopters
  • Primary Role: Multi-role maritime operations including anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and search & rescue (SAR)
  • Capabilities:
    • Advanced weapons, sensors, and avionics suite
    • Fully integrated with fleet operations
    • Adaptable to conventional and asymmetric maritime threats

Strategic Significance

The commissioning of INAS 335 enhances integral naval aviation, fortifies maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), and supports India’s modernization initiatives under the Maritime Capability Development Plan.

Key Features of the MH-60R Helicopter

The MH-60R helicopter is a cutting-edge maritime combat platform, equipped with a comprehensive suite of weapons, sensors, and avionics. It is capable of performing diverse functions such as:

  • Anti-submarine warfare
  • Anti-surface warfare
  • Maritime surveillance
  • Search and rescue operations

The advanced radar, sonar systems, and electronic warfare equipment enable the helicopter to effectively counter both conventional and asymmetric threats, including submarines and hostile surface vessels. Its seamless operational capability with naval ships significantly improves the Navy’s reach and response time.

Conclusion

The establishment of INAS 335 represents a pivotal advancement in the Indian Navy's operational capabilities, ensuring that it remains prepared to address emerging maritime challenges in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. When will the Indian Navy commission INAS 335?
Answer: The Indian Navy will commission INAS 335 on 17 December 2025 at INS Hansa, Goa. This event signifies a major step in modernizing its aviation fleet.

Q2. What is the primary role of the MH-60R helicopters?
Answer: The primary role of MH-60R helicopters includes multi-role maritime operations such as anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue missions.

Q3. Who will lead the commissioning ceremony of INAS 335?
Answer: The commissioning ceremony of INAS 335 will be led by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, the Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy.

Q4. What are the key capabilities of the MH-60R helicopter?
Answer: The MH-60R helicopter features advanced weapons, sensors, and avionics, enabling it to conduct anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance effectively.

Q5. How does INAS 335 enhance India's maritime security?
Answer: INAS 335 enhances India's maritime security by strengthening naval aviation and improving maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean Region, supporting modernization efforts.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the commissioning date of INAS 335?
A) 1 December 2025
B) 17 December 2025
C) 25 December 2025
D) 5 January 2026
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Who is the Chief of Naval Staff during the commissioning of INAS 335?
A) Admiral Sunil Lanba
B) Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi
C) Admiral R.H. Khanna
D) Admiral Karambir Singh
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is the primary function of the MH-60R helicopter?
A) Transport operations
B) Multi-role maritime operations
C) Ground support operations
D) Search and rescue only
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Where is INAS 335 being commissioned?
A) Mumbai
B) Chennai
C) Goa
D) Visakhapatnam
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: What is a key feature of the MH-60R helicopter?
A) It can only conduct ground operations.
B) It has advanced radar and sonar systems.
C) It is a transport helicopter.
D) It operates only in coastal areas.
Correct Answer: B

Stay Updated with Latest Current Affairs

Get daily current affairs delivered to your inbox. Never miss important updates for your UPSC preparation!

Stay Updated with Latest Current Affairs

Get daily current affairs delivered to your inbox. Never miss important updates for your UPSC preparation!

Kutos : AI Assistant!
Indian Navy's INAS 335: A Leap Forward in Maritime Warfare
Ask your questions below - no hesitation, I am here to support your learning.
View All
Subscription successful!