The coastline of Kochi is poised to witness a monumental moment in Indian naval history as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissions the MH 60R Seahawk multi-role helicopter into the fleet of the Indian Navy at INS Garuda on March 6.

This induction marks a significant milestone in enhancing the Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capabilities of the Indian Navy, reinforcing its commitment to maritime security and defence.

The acquisition of the MH 60R Seahawk helicopters stems from a deal signed between the Indian government and the United States of America in February 2020, paving the way for the procurement of 24 fourth-generation helicopters.

With six helicopters already delivered to the Indian Navy, the forthcoming commissioning ceremony heralds a new era of airborne supremacy and operational readiness.

Speaking to PTI, Navy officials underscored the transformative impact of these helicopters on India’s maritime prowess. Detailing the capabilities of the MH 60R, officials highlighted its versatility in ASW, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue operations, medical evacuation, and vertical replenishment, among others.

The integration of these helicopters into the Indian Navy is poised to revolutionize surveillance capabilities, enabling a larger surveillance bubble and enhancing operational effectiveness.

Moreover, the MH 60R Seahawk is equipped with advanced weaponry, including torpedoes, missiles, and precision kill weapon system rockets, augmenting its combat capabilities and versatility in diverse operational scenarios.

Lieutenant Commandant Aneesh Ayarotil, a trained pilot of the MH 60R, emphasized the self-protection suite onboard, comprising Chaff and Infrared Flares, which enhance the helicopter’s survivability against incoming threats.

With a robust data link system, the MH 60R Seahawk ensures seamless interoperability with Indian and friendly foreign platforms, facilitating real-time information exchange and enhancing operational coordination. Its deployment during the multinational MILAN exercise underscores its interoperability and readiness for collaborative operations in the maritime domain.

The MH 60R Seahawk stands as the sole helicopter in the Indian Navy equipped with self-defence capabilities against incoming threats. Lieutenant Commandant Aneesh Ayarotil highlighted the deployment of flares and chaffs to counter heat-seeking and radar-homing missiles, underscoring the helicopter’s resilience in hostile environments.

The rigorous training imparted to pilots and observers, coupled with the operational integration of the MH 60R Seahawk with INS Vikrant, reflects the Indian Navy’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence and readiness. As the helicopters undergo final testing and integration, officials anticipate a seamless transition to operational deployments, further enhancing India’s maritime security architecture.

The commissioning of the MH 60R Seahawk helicopter marks a watershed moment in India’s naval aviation capabilities, reaffirming the nation’s resolve to safeguard its maritime interests and uphold security in the Indo-Pacific region.

As the Indian Navy continues to modernize its fleet and enhance operational readiness, the MH 60R Seahawk emerges as a formidable asset, poised to chart new frontiers in maritime dominance and strategic deterrence.

The shores of Visakhapatnam witness the dynamic spectacle of maritime cooperation as Exercise Samudra Laksamana unfolds its third edition from February 28 to March 2, 2024.

Indian Naval Ship Kiltan and Royal Malaysian Ship KD Lekir converge in the Bay of Bengal for this joint exercise, aimed at fostering camaraderie and enhancing interoperability between the Indian and Royal Malaysian Navies.

The exercise encompasses a comprehensive program spanning both harbour and sea phases, facilitating professional interactions, subject matter expert exchanges, and collaborative operations at sea. At the heart of Exercise Samudra Laksamana lies the shared commitment of both navies to bolster regional maritime security and strengthen bilateral ties.

In the initial harbour phase, the crews of INS Kiltan and KD Lekir engage in a myriad of professional interactions, including Subject Matter Expert Exchanges on topics of mutual interest.

These exchanges serve as platforms for sharing best practices, exchanging knowledge, and fostering deeper cooperation on maritime matters. Additionally, sporting fixtures and cultural exchanges further enrich the experience, fostering bonds beyond professional realms.

Transitioning to the operational phase at sea, both units embark on a series of joint exercises aimed at honing operational skills and enhancing coordination in various maritime scenarios.

From anti-piracy drills to search and rescue operations, the sea phase of Exercise Samudra Laksamana serves as a crucible for testing and refining naval capabilities in a collaborative environment.

Exercise Samudra Laksamana holds strategic significance as it reinforces the enduring partnership between the Indian and Royal Malaysian Navies. By promoting interoperability and mutual understanding, the exercise contributes to the collective efforts to ensure maritime security and stability in the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Rear Admiral Amit Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, reiterated the importance of exercises like Samudra Laksamana in strengthening maritime partnerships and fostering a secure maritime domain. He emphasized the shared commitment of both navies towards upholding maritime norms and promoting regional stability.

The successful conduct of Exercise Samudra Laksamana underscores the commitment of both India and Malaysia towards fostering a peaceful and prosperous maritime environment in the Indo-Pacific region.

As the exercise draws to a close, the bonds forged and lessons learned will continue to resonate, paving the way for deeper cooperation and friendship between the Indian and Royal Malaysian Navies in the years to come.

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering its position in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the Indian Navy is set to commission a new base, INS Jatayu, in the Minicoy Islands of Lakshadweep. This development underscores India’s commitment to enhancing maritime security and surveillance capabilities in critical waters.

According to defence officials, the Indian Navy will convene its commanders’ conference aboard the twin aircraft carriers, including INS Vikramaditya and the newly commissioned INS Vikrant.

During this conference, the Navy will conduct high-tempo operations, such as aircraft taking off from one carrier and landing on the other, showcasing the interoperability and agility of its carrier battle groups. The participation of other warships and submarines will further demonstrate the Navy’s integrated warfare capabilities.

Furthermore, the Indian Navy is set to formally commission the multirole helicopter MH-60 Romeo at Kochi in the upcoming week, marking a significant addition to its aerial fleet.

The induction of MH-60 Romeo helicopters, acquired from the United States under a government-to-government deal, will enhance the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance capabilities.

Highlighting upcoming infrastructural developments, officials disclosed plans for the inauguration of the naval war college buildings in Goa and facilities in Karwar around March 4.

These establishments will serve as vital hubs for training and operational planning, equipping the Navy with the necessary tools to address evolving security challenges effectively.

Providing insights into INS Jatayu, officials revealed that the base will initially be manned by a small contingent of officers and personnel but will undergo expansion in the future.

Situated approximately 50 miles from the Maldives, the base will serve as a strategic outpost, enabling surveillance of military and commercial activities in the region. Similar to INS Baaz in the Andaman Islands, INS Jatayu will possess capabilities crucial for safeguarding India’s interests in the Arabian Sea.

In a significant display of naval prowess, the Indian Navy will conduct twin carrier operations near Lakshadweep, showcasing its ability to deploy and coordinate operations with multiple aircraft carriers simultaneously.

This milestone event comes after the induction of INS Vikrant, reflecting India’s growing maritime capabilities and aspirations to emerge as a dominant naval power in the region.

The presence of both aircraft carriers during the Milin exercise in Vishakhapatnam earlier emphasized India’s expertise in manufacturing aircraft carriers, further solidifying its position as a reliable partner for global naval collaborations.

The commissioning of INS Jatayu and the forthcoming induction of MH-60 Romeo helicopters mark significant milestones in India’s quest for maritime security and dominance in the Indian Ocean Region, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding national interests and promoting regional stability.

On February 29, 2024, the keel laying ceremony of the first Cadet Training Ship (Yard-18003) took place at M/s L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, heralding a significant milestone in the Indian Navy’s indigenous shipbuilding initiative.

The ceremony was presided over by Rear Admiral Ravi Kumar Dhingra, Flag Officer Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Area, in the presence of Rear Admiral G K Harish, AVSM, VSM (Retd), Head Shipbuilding Business at L&T, and other senior officials from the Indian Navy and M/s L&T.

The contract for the indigenous design and construction of three Cadet Training Ships was finalized between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and M/s L&T on March 7, 2023.

These Cadet Training Ships are intended to train officer cadets at sea following their basic training ashore. Additionally, they will provide training opportunities to cadets from friendly foreign countries.

This development underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to indigenous shipbuilding and aligns with the Government of India’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India) and ‘Make in India’ initiatives.

By fostering domestic shipbuilding capabilities, the Indian Navy aims to reduce dependence on foreign imports and strengthen its self-reliance in maritime defence capabilities.

The keel laying ceremony represents the formal commencement of the ship’s construction, marking the laying of the ship’s structural foundation. It is a significant tradition in shipbuilding, symbolizing the start of a vessel’s journey from concept to completion.

The Cadet Training Ships will play a crucial role in enhancing the training infrastructure of the Indian Navy, enabling it to groom future naval officers and strengthen maritime security. Moreover, by extending training facilities to cadets from friendly foreign nations, India aims to foster international cooperation and goodwill in the maritime domain.

The successful execution of this indigenous shipbuilding project reaffirms India’s growing capabilities in naval technology and manufacturing. It reflects the nation’s commitment to innovation, self-sufficiency, and strategic autonomy in defence production.

As construction progresses on the Cadet Training Ship, the Indian Navy anticipates further milestones in its journey towards bolstering its maritime capabilities and advancing its shipbuilding capabilities in line with global standards.

On February 28, 2024, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini set sail from INS Mandovi, Goa, marking the commencement of a landmark expedition to Port Louis, Mauritius.

Organized under the auspices of the Indian Naval Sailing Association (INSA), this expedition represents a significant milestone in naval ocean sailing history, as it is the first-ever transoceanic voyage undertaken by Indian women in a double-handed mode.

Leading the historic voyage are Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, exemplifying the prowess of Nari Shakti in the maritime domain.

Their journey aboard INSV Tarini not only underscores the exceptional skill and dedication of women personnel in the Indian Navy but also reflects the nation’s commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated fields.

This expedition serves as a vital component of the officers’ preparation for the upcoming circumnavigation of the globe, scheduled to commence later this year. Over the past two and a half years, the officers have undergone rigorous training and selection processes.

They have previously sailed from Goa to Mauritius and back in 2022, followed by an expedition from Goa to Rio De Janeiro via Cape Town and back last year. Subsequently, they undertook a sailing expedition from Goa to Port Blair and back in double-handed mode.

The current voyage marks their final consolidation expedition before embarking on the circumnavigation planned for September this year.

The expedition was flagged off by Commander Abhilash Tomy (Retd), KC, NM, a distinguished yachtsman who has circumnavigated the globe non-stop on sailing boats twice. Commander Tomy, who has been mentoring the two women officers for the past six months, expressed his pride in flagging off this monumental expedition.

He highlighted that the voyage symbolizes the spirit of adventure and resilience that defines the Indian Navy. Commander Tomy expressed full confidence in the capabilities of the two women officers and extended his best wishes for fair winds and smooth seas on their historic journey.

The transoceanic expedition of INSV Tarini signifies a significant stride forward in India’s maritime endeavors, showcasing the nation’s growing prominence in global maritime activities and advocating for gender equality on the high seas. It stands as a testament to the Indian Navy’s commitment to fostering excellence and diversity within its ranks.

INSV Tarini is expected to reach Port Louis, Mauritius, on March 20, 2024, marking the successful completion of this historic voyage.