The first squadron of the potent MH-60 helicopters was commissioned by the Indian Navy on March 6, 2024 by the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Hari Kumar.
The Indian Air Naval squadron (INAS) 334 called the Sea Hawks is the first squadron of the MH-60 helicopters which were commissioned at the INS Garuda, Southern Command of the Indian Navy, an official press release stated.
Speaking on the occasion, the Indian Navy Chief Admiral Hari Kumar described the MH-60 Helicopter as one of the most potent multi role helicopters in the world which will significantly enhance the country’s maritime capabilities and secure national interests, the release said.
“As far as the Indian Navy is concerned, we have an unequivocal commitment to the nation that of protecting, preserving, prompting and pursuing national interests in the maritime domain.
With their cutting-edge sensors, and multi-mission capabilities, the MH-60 will augment our maritime surveillance and anti-submarine war capabilities, the Admiral is quoted in the release as having said at the event.
He commended the officers and men of the Seahawks for the commissioning of INAS 334 highlighting the swift progress made by the squadron in fully integrating the fleet. He also urged the crew of the INAS 334 to continue to strive for excellence and be mission ready to keep the waters safe, secure and stable, it further said.
The first MH-60 squadrons will be employed to protect the maritime nation epicentres and also strengthen the country’s efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The MH-60 flexibility, reach and versatility will supplement our mission-based deployments, and consequentially, our combat readiness, the release said. The commissioning plaque was unveiled by the Chief of Naval Staff in the presence of vice Admiral V Srinivas, the flag officer command in chief of the Southern Naval Command.
The ceremony also saw a fly-past formation of the Seahawks and the traditional water cannon salute to mark the historic day, the release said. The event was also attended by Vice Admiral Sanjay Singh, the Flag officer commander in chief of the Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, the Deputy chief of Naval Staff.
Vice Admiral AN Pramod, the Director General Naval Operations and other Flag officers as well as other senior officers. The Indian government signed a deal with the United States of America in February 2020, to acquire 24 fourth generation MH 60 helicopters. Six of them have been delivered so far.
The MH-60 is capable of firing torpedoes, missiles and other advanced precision kill weapon system rockets. The self-protection suite on the helicopter comprises chaff and infrared flares which can be used automatically upon detection of threats.
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