The Indian Navy is set to enhance its anti-submarine warfare capability with the commissioning of multirole MH 60 Romeo helicopters. Acquired via the G2G route from the United States, these helicopters will be commissioned at INS Garuda in Kochi on 6th March by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh. The MH 60R is equipped with advanced features, such as the ability to fire torpedoes, missiles, and advanced precision kill weapon system rockets. It is also fitted with a self-protection suite consisting of chaff and infrared flares, making it the only chopper in the Indian Navy with self-defence capabilities against incoming gunfire or missiles.
The first five batches of pilots and observers, responsible for handling detection and weapon systems, were trained in the US, while the rest of the training took place at INS Garuda in Kochi. The MH 60R is designed for rescue operations, particularly during night search and rescue missions, as it is equipped with night vision goggles and forward-looking infrared facilities. The helicopters have been integrated with the INS Vikrant, marking a significant milestone for the Indian Navy. The advanced data link systems onboard enable real-time information exchange with Indian and friendly foreign countries’ platforms, ensuring complete interoperability. Currently, all six delivered Seahawks are stationed in Kochi and have participated in the recently held multinational MILAN exercise on the eastern seaboard of India.
The MH-60 Romeo Seahawk helicopters hold significant importance for Indian maritime security due to their advanced capabilities and versatility in addressing various threats. These multi-mission helicopters serve as a crucial asset for the Indian Navy, offering enhanced surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and special operation capabilities. One of the primary concerns for Indian maritime security is the increasing assertiveness of China in the Indo-Pacific region. China’s military modernization and expansionist policies have led to territorial disputes and increased tensions in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean.
The MH-60 Romeo Seahawk helicopters play a pivotal role in countering these threats, as they can effectively detect, track, and neutralise underwater and surface threats posed by China’s naval and submarine forces. In addition to their operational capabilities, the MH-60 Romeo Seahawks also provide a strategic advantage to India by strengthening its maritime domain awareness. This allows the Indian Navy to better monitor and respond to any potential Chinese aggression in the region, ensuring the safety and sovereignty of India’s maritime borders.
Punit Shyam Gore
