INS Hansa

The Indian Navy has recently commissioned its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335, also known as the ‘Ospreys’, at INS Hansa, located at Vasco da Gama, Goa. This induction marks a significant enhancement of India’s naval aviation and maritime combat capability, particularly along the western seaboard.

About INS Hansa

INS Hansa is a major Indian Naval Air Station situated near Dabolim, Goa. It is the largest naval airbase in India and hosts several of the Navy’s premier air squadrons, playing a critical role in maritime air operations.

Location and Civil Aviation Role

The base includes a civil enclave, which operates as Dabolim Airport. This airport handles both domestic and international flights round the clock, making INS Hansa a unique example of joint military–civil aviation infrastructure.

Historical Background

INS Hansa was originally commissioned on 5 September 1961 at Sulur near Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, where it was co-located with the Indian Air Force’s Sulur Air Force Station. Following the liberation of Goa, the Indian Navy took over the Dabolim airfield in April 1962, and the naval air station was relocated to Dabolim in June 1964.

Capability Enhancements at INS Hansa

INS Hansa has seen several major capability additions over the years. In 2022, the Navy commissioned the second P-8I maritime patrol aircraft squadron, significantly strengthening shore-based fixed-wing maritime surveillance and anti-submarine operations. The Navy is also in the process of acquiring 15 MQ-9B Sea Guardian remotely piloted aircraft, which will provide persistent maritime surveillance and enhance Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA).

Operational Significance

Although formally commissioned at Goa, the MH-60R helicopters have already demonstrated their operational effectiveness in Operation Sindoor, TROPEX-25, and the Tri-Services Exercise 2025. This highlights their readiness and integration into frontline naval operations.

About the MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter

The MH-60R Seahawk is an all-weather, day-and-night capable, multi-role helicopter designed for operations from both naval ships and shore bases. It is one of the most advanced maritime helicopters in the world.

Role of INAS 335 (Ospreys)

INAS 335 is the second Indian Naval Air Squadron to operate the MH-60R Seahawk, following the commissioning of the first squadron at Kochi, Kerala, in March 2024. The squadron significantly enhances the Navy’s rotary-wing combat and support capabilities.

Operational Capabilities of MH-60R

The MH-60R is optimised for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), enabling the detection, tracking, and engagement of hostile submarines. It is also capable of Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) against enemy surface vessels. In addition, the helicopter supports Search and Rescue (SAR) and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) missions. It also performs Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP), which improves logistics sustainment of naval forces at sea.

Strategic Importance

The induction of INAS 335 at INS Hansa substantially strengthens naval aviation capability on India’s western seaboard, a region of immense strategic, economic, and commercial significance. It enhances India’s ability to secure vital sea lanes and respond effectively to emerging maritime threats.

Conclusion

The commissioning of INAS 335 at INS Hansa marks a major milestone in the Indian Navy’s modernization of its maritime aviation forces. With advanced platforms like the MH-60R Seahawk, INS Hansa continues to serve as a critical hub for ensuring maritime security, surveillance, and operational readiness in the Indian Ocean Region.