Indian Navy Receives 21st MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter from U.S.

The Indian Navy has taken delivery of an additional MH-60R Seahawk helicopter from the United States, bringing the total number received to 21 out of the 24 ordered under a 2020 procurement deal. The U.S. Embassy confirmed the delivery, stating the helicopter arrived in Kochi last week, with two more units expected to reach India this week.

Strengthening India-U.S. Defence Ties

The U.S. Embassy highlighted the delivery as a testament to the deepening defence partnership between the two nations. U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor described the development as a boost to bilateral ties, emphasizing that the advanced helicopter would enhance maritime security and support the shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The MH-60R Seahawk, often referred to as the "Romeo," is among the most advanced shipborne helicopters globally. Manufactured by Lockheed Martin under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme, it is designed for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare. Its cutting-edge equipment includes a dipping sonar, sonobuoys, multi-mode radar, electro-optical sensors, and Mk-54 lightweight torpedoes. Additionally, it can carry AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and machine guns for surface combat.

Expanding Naval Capabilities

Beyond combat roles, the MH-60R Seahawk is equipped for search-and-rescue missions, medical evacuations, surveillance, and logistical support. These capabilities significantly enhance the operational reach of the Indian Navy’s warships, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, and stealth frigates.

India has already commissioned two squadrons of MH-60R helicopters. The first, INAS 334 ‘Seahawks,’ was established at INS Garuda in Kochi in March 2024, while the second, INAS 335 ‘Ospreys,’ was raised at INS Hansa in Goa in December 2025. These squadrons enable the deployment of the helicopters across both the eastern and western seaboards.

Replacing an Ageing Fleet

The acquisition of the MH-60R helicopters is part of India’s efforts to modernize its naval fleet and replace the ageing Sea King helicopters. In addition to the initial procurement deal signed in 2020, New Delhi secured a sustainment package for the fleet in December 2025, ensuring long-term operational readiness.

This latest delivery underscores the growing strategic alignment between India and the U.S., particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, where maritime security remains a shared priority.

Source: The Hindu