India's Flying Frigate: The MH-60 'Romeo' | CTRL ALT Defence Ep 31

Dropping now: Episode 31 of Ctrl Alt Defence. Join Shiv Aroor and Vishnu Som as they discuss the commissioning of India's second MH-60R Seahawk helicopter squadron and explain why this platform is increasingly being described as India's new "Flying Frigate." Key highlights from the episode: India has commissioned INAS 335 'Ospreys', the Indian Navy's second MH-60R squadron, at INS Hansa, Goa. The first MH-60R squadron, INAS 334, was commissioned in Kochi in 2024. With INAS 335, the Western Seaboard now gains a major multi-role maritime capability. The MH-60R is referred to as a "Flying Frigate" due to its extensive suite of sensors, radar systems and weapons, enabling it to perform roles typically associated with surface warships. The helicopter is a critical anti-submarine warfare (ASW) platform, equipped with dipping sonar and Mk-54 lightweight torpedoes for detecting and engaging submarines across the Indian Ocean Region. It provides a strong anti-surface warfare capability, armed with Hellfire missiles for precision strikes against hostile vessels. The MH-60R features advanced multi-mode radar and FLIR systems, allowing effective surveillance and targeting during both day and night operations over vast maritime areas. Beyond combat roles, the helicopter supports search and rescue, medical evacuation, and vertical replenishment, making it a versatile multi-mission asset. It is fully compatible with operations from INS Vikrant, INS Vikramaditya, as well as Indian Navy destroyers and frigates. The induction of the MH-60R enhances India–US defence interoperability, having already demonstrated its utility during major naval exercises and operations such as TROPEX. The platform significantly strengthens India's maritime dominance in the Indian Ocean at a time of evolving and increasing regional security challenges. Listen now and share your thoughts.