Context:
- The Indian Navy is set to commission its second MH-60R Seahawk helicopter squadron (INAS 335 – “Ospreys”) at INS Hansa, Goa.
- This marks a major step in strengthening India’s maritime aviation and naval operational readiness.
Key Highlights:
Defence Acquisition & Capability:
- MH-60R Seahawk is a state-of-the-art, multi-role helicopter.
- Equipped with advanced avionics, sensors, and weapon systems.
- Capable of:
- Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
- Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW)
- Search and Rescue (SAR)
- Maritime surveillance
Strategic Significance:
- Deployment enhances India’s blue-water navy capabilities.
- Strengthens operational reach in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- Improves sea-based helicopter operations from frontline naval platforms.
Integration & Readiness:
- Fully integrated with network-centric naval operations.
- Enhances situational awareness and response to maritime threats.
Background:
- The Navy had earlier commissioned its first MH-60R squadron in 2024.
- Acquisition aligned with India’s efforts to modernise naval aviation.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Issue: Need for advanced maritime surveillance and ASW capability.
- Government Initiative:
- Defence modernisation under Atmanirbhar Bharat (with imports + offsets)
- Benefits:
- Enhanced deterrence
- Improved maritime domain awareness
- Challenges:
- Dependence on imported platforms
- Impact:
- Strengthened naval combat preparedness
Relevant Mains Points:
- Facts & Definitions:
- MH-60R Seahawk: US-origin, multi-role naval helicopter
- Conceptual Clarity:
- Role of naval aviation in securing sea lanes of communication (SLOCs)
- Keywords:
- Blue-water navy
- Maritime security
- Indian Ocean Region
- Way Forward:
- Accelerate indigenous helicopter development
- Enhance jointness with Coast Guard and Air Force
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
- GS Paper III: Defence, security preparedness
- GS Paper II: Strategic and international security issues