View source for Indian Naval Air Arm

{{Use Indian English|date=August 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2020}}
{{Infobox military unit
| unit_name = '''Indian Naval Air Arm'''
| image = 
| caption = 
| dates = 
| country = [[India]]
| allegiance = 
| branch = 
| type = [[Naval aviation]]
| role = [[Air to air combat|Sea-to air-combat]], [[surface attack]], [[anti-submarine warfare]], [[Search and rescue]], [[aerial reconnaissance]], [[weather observation]], and material transportation.
| size = [[List of Indian naval air squadrons|23 squadrons]]<br />5,000 personnel<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Administrative.html Bharat-Rakshak – Indian Navy – Administrative Structure] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090315075507/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Administrative.html |date=15 March 2009 }}, bharat-rakshak.com</ref><br />Approx. [[List of active Indian military aircraft#Naval Air Arm|300 aircraft]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/26019/waf2014/ |title=WorldAirForces2019.PDF |access-date=2 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190302210400/https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/26019/waf2014// |archive-date=2 March 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| command_structure = [[Indian Navy]]
| garrison = 
| garrison_label = 
| nickname = 
| patron = 
| motto = 
| colors = 
| colors_label = 
| march = 
| mascot = 
| equipment = 
| equipment_label = 
| battles = 
| anniversaries = 
| decorations = 
| battle_honours = <!-- Commanders -->
| notable_commanders = <!-- Insignia -->
| identification_symbol = 
| identification_symbol_label = Crest
| identification_symbol_2 = [[File:Roundel of India.svg|60px|Roundel]]
| identification_symbol_3 = [[File:Fin Flash of India.svg|60px|The IN Fin Flash]]
| identification_symbol_2_label = [[Roundel]]
| identification_symbol_3_label = Fin flash
<!-- Aircraft -->| aircraft_attack = 
| aircraft_bomber = 
| aircraft_fighter = [[Mikoyan MiG-29K]],
| aircraft AEW&C = [[Kamov Ka - 31]]
| aircraft_helicopter = [[HAL Dhruv]], [[Kamov Ka-27]], [[SH-3 Sea King]], [[Westland Sea King]], [[HAL Chetak]], [[MH-60R Seahawk]]
| aircraft_interceptor = [[Mikoyan MiG-29K]]
| aircraft_patrol = [[Boeing P-8|Boeing P-8I]], [[Dornier 228]]
| aircraft_UAV ( Unmanned Aerial Vehicle ) = [[IAI Heron]], [[IAI Searcher|IAI Searcher Mk II]], [[General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper]],
| aircraft_trainer = [[BAE Systems Hawk|BAE Hawk]], [[HAL Kiran]]
| aircraft_transport = 
| start_date = {{start date|1948}}<ref>{{cite web |url=http://indiannavy.nic.in/book/naval-air-arm |title=The Naval Air Arm |publisher=The Indian Navy |access-date=21 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228220802/http://indiannavy.nic.in/book/naval-air-arm |archive-date=28 December 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| current_commander = [[Rear admiral (India)|Rear admiral]] [[Ajay D. Theophilus]]
| current_commander_label = Flag Officer Naval Aviation (FONA)
| ceremonial_chief = 
| ceremonial_chief_label = 
| colonel_of_the_regiment = 
| colonel_of_the_regiment_label = 
}}

The '''Indian Naval Air Arm''' is the [[Naval aviation|aviation branch]] and a fighting arm of the [[Indian Navy]] which is tasked to provide an [[aircraft carrier]]-based strike capability, [[Anti-aircraft warfare|fleet air defence]], [[Maritime patrol|maritime reconnaissance]], and [[anti-submarine warfare]].

The Flag Officer Naval Aviation (FONA) appears to direct the field operations of the air arm.<ref>{{cite web |author=Indian Navy |url=https://indiannavy.nic.in/content/organisation |title=Indian Navy |publisher=indiannavy.nic.in |date=5 Jul 2018 |access-date=26 Sep 2021}}</ref>

==History==
[[File:INS Vikrant (R11) launches an Alize aircraft during Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.jpg|thumb|left|A [[Bréguet 1050 Alizé]] anti-submarine aircraft taking off from INS ''Vikrant'']]
The first naval air station, [[INS Garuda Kochi|INS ''Garuda'']], was inaugurated in Cochin on 11 May 1953.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zLdeAAAAIAAJ&q=INS+Garuda |title=''Military Year-book'' – India 1965 |access-date=27 June 2013|last1=Baranwal |first1=Sukhdeo Prasad |year=1971 }}</ref> This went hand-in-hand with the commissioning of the [[INAS 550|No.550 Squadron]],<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Timeline.html ''Bharat-Rakshak.com'' – Indian Navy Timeline – "11 May 1953: First Naval Air Station, INS Garuda, inaugurated at Cochin. No.550 Squadron (consisting of Sealand and Firefly aircraft) commissioned"] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071119132611/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Timeline.html |date=19 November 2007 }}</ref> utilising [[Short Sealand]] aircraft<ref>[http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/wbgoanam01.html ''Naval Aviation Museum, Dabolim, Goa, India'' – http://www.warbirdsofindia.com] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080705084641/http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/wbgoanam01.html |date=5 July 2008 }}</ref> and [[Fairey Firefly]] aircraft<ref>[http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/wbgoanam02.html ''Naval Aviation Museum, Dabolim, Goa, India'' – http://www.warbirdsofindia.com] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080705084521/http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/wbgoanam02.html |date=5 July 2008 }}</ref>

The commissioning of [[INAS 300|No.300 White Tigers Squadron]],<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Timeline.html ''Bharat-Rakshak.com'' – Indian Navy Timeline – "1960: No.300 White Tigers Squadron (consisting of Sea Hawk aircraft) commissioned."] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071119132611/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Timeline.html |date=19 November 2007 }}</ref> consisting of [[Hawker Sea Hawk|Sea Hawks]], happened in 1961.<ref name="warbirdsofindia.com">[http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/wbgoanam03.html ''Naval Aviation Museum, Dabolim, Goa, India'' – http://www.warbirdsofindia.com] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080705085152/http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/wbgoanam03.html |date=5 July 2008 }}</ref>

In 1961, {{INS|Vikrant|1961|6}} (formerly HMS ''Hercules'') was acquired by the [[Indian Navy]].<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zLdeAAAAIAAJ&q=INS+Vikrant |title=''Military Year-book'' – India 1965 |access-date=27 June 2013|last1=Baranwal |first1=Sukhdeo Prasad |year=1971 }}</ref> ''Vikrant''{{'}}s initial airwing consisted of British [[Hawker Sea Hawk]] fighter-bombers and a French [[Breguet Alize|Alize]] anti-submarine aircraft. On 18 May 1961, the first jet landed on board, piloted by [[Lieutenant (navy)|Lieutenant]] (later [[Admiral (India)|Admiral]]) [[Radhakrishna Hariram Tahiliani]]. That year, the [[INAS 310|No.310 Cobras Squadron]] (consisting of Alize aircraft<ref name="warbirdsofindia.com"/><ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PY8CvlKC7kgC&q=310+cobras+squadron&pg=PA159 |title=Aircraft Carriers: The World's Greatest Naval Vessels and Their Aircraft By Richard Jones, Chris Bishop, Chris Chant, Christopher Chant |date=15 October 2004 |access-date=27 June 2013|isbn=9780760320051 |last1=Bishop |first1=Chris |last2=Chant |first2=Christopher|publisher=MBI Publishing Company LLC }}</ref>) was commissioned. After playing an important role in several major Indian military actions, specifically the [[Annexation of Goa|Liberation of Goa]] and the [[Indo-Pakistani war of 1971|India-Pakistani war of 1971]], she was decommissioned in January 1997<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=kEj-2a7pmVMC&q=INS+Vikrant+decommissioned&pg=PA20 |title=Students' Britannica India By Dale Hoiberg, Indu Ramchandani |access-date=27 June 2013|isbn=9780852297605 |year=2000 |last1=Hoiberg |first1=Dale |publisher=Popular Prakashan }}</ref> and [[scrapped]].<ref>[https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Dismantling-of-INS-Vikrant-begins/article60388697.ece ''Dismantling of INS Vikrant begins''] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250424034721/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Dismantling-of-INS-Vikrant-begins/article60388697.ece |date=24 April 2025 }}</ref>

In 1976, the [[Indian Air Force]] handed over [[Super Constellation]]<ref>[http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/wbgoanam06.html ''Naval Aviation Museum, Dabolim, Goa, India'' – http://www.warbirdsofindia.com] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080719170543/http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/wbgoanam06.html |date=19 July 2008 }}</ref> aircraft to the No.312 Albatross Squadron<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Timeline.html ''Bharat-Rakshak.com'' – Indian Navy Timeline – "1976: No.312 Albatross Squadron (consisting of Super Constellation aircraft) commissioned."] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071119132611/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Timeline.html |date=19 November 2007 }}</ref> in [[Dabolim]], Goa. Being fairly old aircraft at that point, these were withdrawn from active service by 1983. To replace them in the maritime patrol role, Soviet aircraft were acquired. The [[INAS 315|No. 315 Winged Stallions Squadron]] was commissioned in 1977 with the [[Ilyushin Il-38]] aircraft.<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Timeline.html ''Bharat-Rakshak.com'' – Indian Navy Timeline – "01 October 1977: No.315 Winged Stallions Squadron (consisting of IL-38 aircraft) commissioned."] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071119132611/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Timeline.html |date=19 November 2007 }}</ref>

In December 1961, INS ''Vikrant'' participated in [[Operation Vijay (1961)|Operation Vijay]], the liberation of [[Goa]] from [[Estado Novo (Portugal)|Portugal]]. Its role was primarily to deter foreign naval intervention during the 40-hour-long military action.<ref>{{cite web |date=4 January 2009 |url=http://www.sankalpindia.net/drupal/?q=node/2413 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120910042637/http://www.sankalpindia.net/drupal/?q=node/2413 |url-status=dead |archive-date=10 September 2012 |title=Sankalp India Foundation – "What happened during Operation Vijay (1961)?" |publisher=Sankalpindia.net |access-date=27 June 2013 }}</ref>

INS ''Vikrant'' played a major role in the successful naval blockade of [[East Pakistan]].<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=PY8CvlKC7kgC&dq=Vikrant+1971&pg=PA64 Aircraft Carriers: The World's Greatest Naval Vessels and Their Aircraft] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140627162900/http://books.google.com/books?id=PY8CvlKC7kgC&pg=PA64&dq=Vikrant+1971&ei=ibFTSM_PMY6QtAPb4fm7Cw&sig=-dy2013FLTEJScp0xIjPhdvxN8w |date=27 June 2014 }} By Richard Jones, Chris Bishop, Chris Chant, Christopher Chant</ref> Stationed off the [[Andaman & Nicobar Islands]] escorted by the {{sclass|Leopard|frigate|1}} {{INS|Brahmaputra|1957|6}}, as well as {{INS|Beas|1958|6}}, ''Vikrant'' redeployed towards [[Chittagong]] at the outbreak of hostilities.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mj30oQuTBDU |title=YouTube documentary |via=YouTube |date=13 April 2007 |access-date=27 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411225622/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mj30oQuTBDU |archive-date=11 April 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> The morning of 4 December 1971, the eight Sea Hawk aircraft on ''Vikrant'' launched an air raid on [[Cox's Bazar]] from {{convert|60|nmi|lk=in}} away. That evening, the air group struck Chittagong harbour. Other strikes targeted Khulna and Mongla. A PTI message is supposed to have read, "Chittagong harbour ablaze as ships and aircraft of the (Pakistan) Eastern Naval Fleet bombed and rocketed. Not a single vessel can be put to sea from Chittagong". Air strikes staged from ''Vikrant'' continued till 10 December 1971.

Given naval intelligence that indicated the intent of the [[Pakistan Navy]] to break through the Indian Naval blockade using camouflaged merchant ships, ''Vikrant''{{'}}s Sea Hawks struck shipping in the Chittagong and Cox's Bazar harbours, sinking or incapacitating most merchant ships there.

The [[Hughes 269]] helicopter was previously in service for training.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=7498539&nseq=2 |title=Indian Naval Hughes 269C |publisher=jetphotos.net |access-date=21 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140911001951/http://jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=7498539&nseq=2 |archive-date=11 September 2014 }}</ref>

[[File:Harrier IN Malabar 07.jpg|thumb|A [[Sea Harrier]] takes off from {{INS|Viraat}}]]
The [[BAE Sea Harrier]] inducted in the 1980s operated from {{INS|Viraat}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlAiq2Umj1w|title=YouTube|website=[[YouTube]] |access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160117212634/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlAiq2Umj1w|archive-date=17 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Until 6 March 2016,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/59005/indian-navy-prepares-to-retire-its-sea-harriers|title=Indian Navy prepares to retire its Sea Harriers|publisher=Janes|access-date=28 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160326020230/http://www.janes.com/article/59005/indian-navy-prepares-to-retire-its-sea-harriers|archive-date=26 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=PIB>{{cite web|title=INAS 300 retires Harriers|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=145203|publisher=Press Information Bureau|access-date=11 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160603150019/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=145203|archive-date=3 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/naval/naval-aviation/2016/03/21/indian-navy-retires-sea-harriers/82070296/|title=Indian Navy retires Sea Harriers|date=21 March 2016|publisher=Defense News|access-date=28 March 2016}}</ref> the BAE Sea Harrier FRS Mk.51 / T Mk.60 flew with the [[INAS 300]] and [[INAS 552]] squadrons of the Indian Navy. The Sea Harriers are armed with the Matra Magic-II AAM and the Sea Eagle Anti-ship missiles. The aircraft were upgraded with the [[Elta Systems|Elta]] [[EL/M-2032]] radar and the [[Rafael Derby]] BVRAAM missiles.<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Galleries/AirArm/Harrier/ Bharat-Rakshak.com] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140607000215/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Galleries/AirArm/Harrier/ |date=7 June 2014 }}: The White Tigers of Rewa</ref>

[[File:Indian Navy Tupolev Tu-142MK-E Krivchikov.jpg|thumb|left|[[Tu-142|Tu-142MK-E]]]]
Year 1988 saw the induction of [[Tupolev Tu-142|Tupolev 142M]] into service. The aircraft started operations from Dabolim in Goa and later shifted its operations to INS Rajali in 1992. Tu-142M was primarily used in the long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare role. The aircraft served the navy till 2018 and participated in the Indian Peace Keeping Mission in Sri Lanka. Also participated in Operation Cactus in Maldives, in which the fleeing mercenaries were detected and tracked until apprehended by ships.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Indian Navy bids adieu to TU 142M patrol and anti-sub aircraft |work=The Economic Times |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indian-navy-bids-adieu-to-tu-142m-patrol-and-anti-sub-aircraft/articleshow/57890659.cms |access-date=2022-11-25}}</ref>

On 11 May 2013, first squadron of MiG-29K was commissioned.<ref name="Pandit">{{cite news |last=Pandit |first=Rajat |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/india-to-commission-its-first-supersonic-naval-fighter-squadron-of-mig-29k-jets/articleshow/19999349.cms |title=Commissioning of MiG-29K squadron |work=The Economic Times|date=11 May 2013 |access-date=27 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160117212634/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/india-to-commission-its-first-supersonic-naval-fighter-squadron-of-mig-29k-jets/articleshow/19999349.cms |archive-date=17 January 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> These aircraft were commissioned as a replacement of the ageing Sea Harrier.<ref name="INAS 300 retires Harriers">{{cite web|title=INAS 300 retires Harriers|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=145203|publisher=Press Information Bureau|access-date=11 May 2016}}</ref> after 46 years of service the [[Ilyushin Il-38|Il-38]] patrol aircraft was retired from the force on 31 October 2023. More [[Boeing P-8 Poseidon|P-8I]] aircraft are planned to replace them.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ray |first=Kalyan |title=Indian Navy, IAF decommission old Ilyushin-38, MiG-21 aircraft |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/indian-navy-iaf-decommission-old-ilyushin-38-mig-21-aircraft-2750567 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref>

The [[Naval Aviation Museum (India)|Naval Aviation Museum]] located in Bogmalo, {{convert|6|km|abbr=on}} from [[Vasco da Gama, Goa]], India showcases the history of the Naval Air Arm.

==Aircraft inventory==
{{See also|List of active Indian military aircraft#Naval Air Arm|List of Indian naval air squadrons}}

===Fixed-wing aircraft===

====[[Mikoyan MiG-29K]]====
[[File:An Indian Navy MIG-29K Fulcrum flies over the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) during Exercise Malabar 2017.jpg|thumb|left|[[Mikoyan MiG-29K|MiG 29K]] during Malabar 2017 exercise]] As reported by MiG Bureau, the Indian Navy's association with the MiG-29K began in Apr 2002 when a team led by Commander Gupta reached Moscow to evaluate the MiG-29K prototype for possible induction into the Indian Navy.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/russia/airdef/mig-29.htm |title=MIG-29 FULCRUM (MIKOYAN-GUREVICH) |publisher=Fas.org |access-date=27 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080516132943/http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/russia/airdef/mig-29.htm |archive-date=16 May 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/MiG-29K.html MiG-29K/KUB FULCRUM-D at Bharat-Rakshak] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080302210457/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/MiG-29K.html |date=2 March 2008 }}</ref> The Team evaluated the aircraft on ground as well as in the air (the flight evaluation was conducted by a Navy Test Pilot Commander Ahuja). Some other aircraft were also evaluated but the MiG-29K was chosen. On 20 January 2004, the Indian Navy signed a contract for 12 single-seat MiG-29K and 4 two-seat MiG-29KUB. The first MIG-29K for the Indian Navy took flight on 22 January 2007. The MIG-29 KUB (two-seat trainer) is similar to the MIG-29K but with reduced operational range. The aircraft will be fielded on the aircraft carrier {{INS|Vikramaditya||6}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indianexpress.com/story/21523.html |title=First MiG 29 K for Indian Navy takes off |work=The Indian Express|date=23 January 2007 |access-date=27 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070125130027/http://www.indianexpress.com/story/21523.html |archive-date=25 January 2007 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The first squadron, [[INAS 303]], the "Black Panthers",<ref>{{cite web |url=http://livefist.blogspot.com/2009/08/exclusive-mig-29k-squadron-to-be-called.html |title=Livefist: EXCLUSIVE: Navy's MiG-29K Squadron To Be Called "Black Panthers" |publisher=Livefist.blogspot.com |date=28 August 2009 |access-date=27 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090902072020/http://livefist.blogspot.com/2009/08/exclusive-mig-29k-squadron-to-be-called.html |archive-date=2 September 2009 |url-status=live}}</ref> was commissioned on 11 May 2013.<ref name="Pandit"/> On 11 July 2016, second squadron, [[INAS 300]], was commissioned.<ref name="INAS 300 retires Harriers"/> The delivery of the aircraft to the Indian Navy started in 2009.

The fighter plane is different from the MiG-29 flown by [[Indian Air Force]]. The aircraft has been modified for aircraft carrier operation by hardening the undercarriage. It also has much better 'over-the-nose' vision to make it easy to land aboard a carrier at a high [[angle of attack]]. Modifications made for Indian Navy requirement featured Zhuk-ME radar, RD-33MK engine, combat payload up to {{convert|5500|kg|abbr=on}}, 13 [[hardpoints]] (inclusive of the multi-lock bomb carriers), additional fuel tanks situated in dorsal spine fairing and wing [[LERX]]s, increased total fuel capacity by 50% comparing to first variant of MiG-29 and an updated 4-channel digital fly-by-wire flight control system. With special coatings, the MiG-29K [[radar]] reflecting surface is 4–5 times smaller than of basic MiG-29. Cockpit displays consist of wide [[Head-up display|HUD]]s, 3 colour LCD [[Multi-function display|MFD]]s (7 on the MiG-29KUB), a French Sigma-95 satellite GPS module and [[Topsight E]] helmet-mounted targeting system compatible with the full range of weapons carried by the MiG-29M and MiG-29SMT.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/2007/jan/25navy.htm|title=Navy's MiG-29K superior to IAF's SU-30MKI|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924155837/http://www.rediff.com/news/2007/jan/25navy.htm|archive-date=24 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>

====[[Boeing]] [[P-8I Neptune]]====
[[File: Boeing P-8I of the Indian Navy.jpg|thumb|A [[Boeing P-8 Poseidon|Boeing P-8I]] of the Indian Navy]]
New Delhi and Boeing signed a $2.1 billion contract in January 2009 to deliver eight P-8Is for anti-submarine operations, to replace the ageing fleet of Russian-manufactured [[Tupolev Tu-142|Tupolev Tu142M]] planes. The P-8I varies from the P-8A, wherein it has a [[Magnetic anomaly detector]] (MAD) and an aft-mounted radar that provides it with 360-degree aerial radar surveillance capability.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |last=Diplomat |first=Franz-Stefan Gady, The |title=India Inducts First Squadron of Anti-Submarine Warfare Plane |url=https://thediplomat.com/2015/11/india-inducts-first-squadron-of-anti-submarine-warfare-plane/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161109163242/https://thediplomat.com/2015/11/india-inducts-first-squadron-of-anti-submarine-warfare-plane/ |archive-date=9 November 2016 |access-date=25 June 2016 |website=thediplomat.com}}</ref> It features communication and other devices on-board that have been indigenously developed by [[Bharat Electronics|Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 December 2010 |title=BEL supplies P-8I aircraft equipment to Boeing |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/bel-supplies-p-8i-aircraft-equipment-to-boeing/articleshow/7150520.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414203322/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/bel-supplies-p-8i-aircraft-equipment-to-boeing/articleshow/7150520.cms |archive-date=14 April 2023 |access-date=15 April 2023 |website=The Economic Times}}</ref> The first squadron, [[INAS 312]], was formed with eight aircraft in November 2015.<ref name=":0" /> A follow-on order worth over $1 billion for the purchase of four additional P-8Is was signed in July 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 July 2016 |title=India-US deal to procure four Poseidon-8I aircraft |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/content/560550/india-us-deal-procure-four.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414202227/https://www.deccanherald.com/content/560550/india-us-deal-procure-four.html |archive-date=14 April 2023 |access-date=15 April 2023 |website=Deccan Herald}}</ref> The Indian Navy decommissioned the Tupolev Tu-142M aircraft in March 2017.<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 March 2017 |title=Indian Navy bids farewell to TU-142M aircraft after 29 years of service |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-navy-bids-farewell-to-tu-142m-aircraft-after-29-years-of-service/story-lShEXj1Khjh23nHVqrnb3H.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221001171706/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-navy-bids-farewell-to-tu-142m-aircraft-after-29-years-of-service/story-lShEXj1Khjh23nHVqrnb3H.html |archive-date=1 October 2022 |access-date=15 April 2023 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref> With Boeing delivering the 12th and the final P-8I in February 2022,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Peri |first=D |date=24 February 2022 |title=Navy gets full complement of P-8I maritime aircraft |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/boeing-delivers-12th-p-8i-maritime-patrol-aircraft-to-indian-navy/article65080711.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220401033335/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/boeing-delivers-12th-p-8i-maritime-patrol-aircraft-to-indian-navy/article65080711.ece |archive-date=1 April 2022 |access-date=15 April 2023 |website=The Hindu}}</ref> the second squadron, [[INAS 316]], with four aircraft was formed in March 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 March 2022 |title=After 45 years, Indian Navy gets new squadron to keep an eye in the sky |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/after-45-years-indian-navy-gets-new-squadron-to-keep-an-eye-in-the-sky/articleshow/90481751.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220416172512/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/after-45-years-indian-navy-gets-new-squadron-to-keep-an-eye-in-the-sky/articleshow/90481751.cms |archive-date=16 April 2022 |access-date=15 April 2023 |website=The Times of India}}</ref>

In 2026 6 additional P-8I's were ordered<ref>https://scramble.nl/military-news/additional-p-8i-neptune-lrmr-aircraft-for-india</ref>

====[[Dornier 228]]====
Indian Navy operates 27<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title=World Air Forces directory 2022|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/reports/world-air-forces-directory-2022/146695.article|access-date=2022-01-08|website=Flight Global|language=en}}</ref> [[Dornier 228]] and in process to induct 8 more state-of-the-art Dornier for [[anti-submarine warfare]] and [[maritime patrol]] from [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]]. These aircraft are equipped with advanced sensors, glass cockpit, advanced surveillance radar, ELINT, optical sensors and networking features. Currently 4 of Dornier 228 NG aircraft in service in [[INAS 314]].<ref name="indiannavy.nic.in">{{cite news|url=https://www.indiannavy.nic.in/content/commissioning-inas-314-%E2%80%9Craptors%E2%80%9D|title=Commissioning of INAS 314 - "RAPTORS"|website=Indian Navy|date=29 November 2019|access-date=6 January 2022}}</ref>

===[[Military helicopter|Helicopters]]===
[[File:EzV0D8uUcAYRFJy (cropped).jpg|thumb|[[HAL Dhruv]] MKIII operated by Indian Navy's INAS 323 Harriers squadron.]]
'''[[HAL Dhruv]]''': developed by [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]], the Navy received its first Dhruvs on 28 March 2002.<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Galleries/AirArm/Dhruv/ Bharat-Rakshak.com] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071112050357/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Galleries/AirArm/Dhruv/ |date=12 November 2007 }}: HAL Dhruv at Aero India '05</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/year-2013-news/november-2013-navy-naval-forces-maritime-industry-technology-security-global-news/1353--indian-navy-commissions-first-advanced-light-helicopter-dhruv-squadron-.html |title=Indian Navy Commissions First Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv) Squadron |date=12 November 2013 |access-date=6 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160117212634/http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/year-2013-news/november-2013-navy-naval-forces-maritime-industry-technology-security-global-news/1353--indian-navy-commissions-first-advanced-light-helicopter-dhruv-squadron-.html |archive-date=17 January 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref> It is expected to receive a total of 120 units to replace the Chetak helicopters in service. The naval variant is fitted with the Super Vision-2000 maritime radar, capable of detecting targets with low radar cross-section at a range of {{convert|200|km|abbr=on}}. The anti-submarine version of the helicopter is fitted with dunking sonar, torpedoes, depth charges. The helicopter may also be fitted with the missiles for anti-ship roles. However, in 2008, the Indian Navy pronounced Dhruv unsuitable for its role as an ASW platform. Indian Navy will continue to procure Dhruv as a multi-role utility platform. During the commissioning ceremony Vice Admiral Sinha said that "In the Navy, Dhruv helicopters have transformed into an advanced search and rescue (SAR) helicopter also used for missions like heliborne operations, and armed patrol with night vision devices. Such machines in the inventory have become imperative for the Navy given the scenario of low-intensity maritime operations (LIMO) and coastal security construct."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-the-indian-navy-s-first-advance-light-helicopter-alh-was-commissioned-at-kochi-1917911|title=The Indian Navy's first Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) was commissioned at Kochi|website=dna|date=12 November 2013|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151209143354/http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-the-indian-navy-s-first-advance-light-helicopter-alh-was-commissioned-at-kochi-1917911|archive-date=9 December 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2013 Indian Navy showed keen interest in the armed version of the [[HAL Rudra]]. Impressed with the Dhruv's sensors which were able to track ships and also read their names at ranges of {{convert|12|to|14|km|abbr=on}}. The Navy may induct 20 more helicopters into service.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/navy-keen-on-weaponised-dhruv/article4401783.ece|title=Navy keen on weaponised Dhruv|author=S. Anandan|website=The Hindu|date=11 February 2013|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140520063346/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/navy-keen-on-weaponised-dhruv/article4401783.ece|archive-date=20 May 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> A new squadron INAS 323 Harriers was commissioned with HAL Dhruv MKIII variant. Navy placed order for 16 MKIII helicopters and 6 of them are delivered with the remaining 10 to be delivered by Dec 2021. Naval variant of MKIII comes with 19 specific systems suited for maritime role.<ref>{{Cite web|author=Newton Sequeira|date=Apr 20, 2021|title=Harriers take flight as Navy inducts indigenous version {{!}} Goa News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/harriers-take-flight-as-navy-inducts-indigenous-version/articleshow/82152035.cms|access-date=2021-04-20|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref>

'''[[Kamov Ka-25]], [[Kamov Ka-28]] and the [[Kamov Ka-31]]''': The Ka-25 was acquired by the Indian Navy in 1980 for [[anti-submarine warfare]], but had severe technological limitations. The Ka-28s were acquired in the mid-80s and were said to be a quantum leap over their predecessors from an ASW standpoint. The Ka-31<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Galleries/AirArm/Ka31/ Bharat-Rakshak.com] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080302205901/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Galleries/AirArm/Ka31/ |date=2 March 2008 }}: Eyes in the Skies</ref> takes the Kamov capabilities even further by enabling real-time network-centric warfare for the Indian Navy.

'''[[Westland Sea King#India|Westland Sea King Mk.42B/C]]''': Used principally for [[anti-submarine warfare]] (ASW) and search & rescue roles,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/navy/equipment/current/westland-sea-king/|title=Sea King|access-date=26 February 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080512150419/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Seaking.html|archive-date=12 May 2008|url-status=live|date=29 October 2008}}</ref> the helicopter fleet operate from [[INS Garuda]] (Kochi) as well as [[INS Shikra]] air stations. US sanctions on India in response to India's [[Pokhran-II|nuclear tests]] resulted in a large part of the Sea King fleet being grounded for want of spare parts. Seventeen of the Sea King helicopters will be upgraded. The upgrade will feature day and night capability, the capability to work in adverse weather conditions, integration of two anti-ship missiles with a range of fifty kilometres and a new radar.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=3585408&c=ASI&s=AIR|title=India to Upgrade 17 Sea King Copters for $300M|access-date=6 February 2015}}{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> The six Mk.42C variants, earlier forming a part of [[MARCOS|Marine Commando Flight]],<ref name="indiannavy22">{{cite web |title=Indian Naval Air Squadrons|url=http://indiannavy.nic.in/naval-fleet/indian-naval-air-squadrons|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226081408/http://indiannavy.nic.in/naval-fleet/indian-naval-air-squadrons|archive-date=26 December 2014|accessdate=27 December 2014|publisher=Indian Navy}}</ref> replaced the [[UH-3H Sea King]]s of the [[INAS 350]] squadron in June 2024. The Mk.42C serves the role of a [[Utility helicopter|utility and transport helicopter]].<ref name=":5">{{Cite press release |title=Indian Navy bids farewell to UH – 3H helicopter|date=2024-06-28|publisher=[[Press Information Bureau]]|url=https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2029416|access-date=2025-08-19}}</ref>

[[Aérospatiale Alouette III|Aérospatiale SA 316 Alouette III]]: Also known as the Chetak, these choppers have seen active service in the Navy as well as the Coast Guard. They are carried on several combatants as well as non-combatant ships. They are also operated from and maintained at the [[INS Shikra]] and [[INS Utkrosh]] [[Naval Air Station]]s in Mumbai and Port Blair respectively.[[File:Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk helicopter of Indian Navy.jpg|thumb|[[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk#MH-60R|MH-60R Seahawk "Romeo"]] of Indian Navy]][[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk#MH-60R|Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk]]: The Indian Government signed a $2.4 billion contract in February 2020 for 24 MH-60R helicopters to replace its fleet of [[Sikorsky SH-3 Sea King|Sea King]] helicopters.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=17 July 2021 |title=Indian Navy receives first two of 24 MH-60R helicopters from US |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indian-navy-receives-first-two-mh-60r-helicopters-from-us-1829217-2021-07-17 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231008085647/https://www.indiatoday.in/amp/india/story/indian-navy-receives-first-two-mh-60r-helicopters-from-us-1829217-2021-07-17 |archive-date=8 October 2023 |access-date=1 September 2024 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref> The Seahawks will be Indian Navy's primary helicopter for a host of roles including [[Anti-submarine warfare|anti-submarine warfare (ASW)]], [[Anti-surface warfare|anti-surface warfare (ASuW)]] and [[Airborne early warning and control|airborne early warning and control (AEW&C)]]. The communication equipment like satellite communication and [[Identification friend or foe|Identification, friend or foe (IFF)]] equipment for helicopters in this order have been indigenously developed.<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Paul |first=John |date=29 February 2024 |title=Six MH 60R multi-mission helicopters to be commissioned into Indian Navy in March |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/six-mh-60r-multi-mission-helicopters-to-be-commissioned-into-indian-navy-in-march/article67899848.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403011856/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/six-mh-60r-multi-mission-helicopters-to-be-commissioned-into-indian-navy-in-march/article67899848.ece |archive-date=3 April 2024 |access-date=1 September 2024 |website=The Hindu}}</ref> Deliveries commenced in July 2021 when the first 2 helicopters were handed to the Indian Navy.<ref name=":2" /> The helicopter was integrated with [[INS Vikrant (2013)|INS Vikrant]] in May 2023 with its maiden landing on the aircraft carrier.<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 May 2023 |title=MH60R helicopter makes maiden landing on INS Vikrant |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/mh60r-helicopter-makes-maiden-landing-on-ins-vikrant/articleshow/100657468.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240901004408/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/mh60r-helicopter-makes-maiden-landing-on-ins-vikrant/amp_articleshow/100657468.cms |archive-date=1 September 2024 |access-date=1 September 2024 |website=The Times of India}}</ref> The first squadron, [[INAS 334]], was formed with six helicopters in March 2024, at Kochi. All remaining helicopters to be delivered by 2025.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Rahul |date=3 March 2024 |title=Navy to raise first MH-60R Seahawk squadron in Kochi on March 6 |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/navy-to-raise-first-mh-60r-seahawk-squadron-in-kochi-on-march-6-101709466297205-amp.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240314082906/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/navy-to-raise-first-mh-60r-seahawk-squadron-in-kochi-on-march-6-101709466297205-amp.html |archive-date=14 March 2024 |access-date=1 September 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref>

===UAVs===
The [[Indian Navy]] operates at least two squadrons of [[IAI Heron|Heron]] and [[IAI Searcher|Searcher Mk-II]] UAVs, based in [[INS Garuda|Kochi]] ([[INAS 342]]) and [[Porbandar Airport|Porbandar]] ([[INAS 343]]).<ref name=toi-uav>{{cite news | url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/Eye-in-the-sky-to-guard-Gujarat-coast/articleshow/7308504.cms | work=The Times of India| title=Eye in the sky to guard Gujarat coast | date=18 January 2011 | access-date=18 January 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110122060012/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/Eye-in-the-sky-to-guard-Gujarat-coast/articleshow/7308504.cms | archive-date=22 January 2011 | url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.zeenews.com/news678714.html|title=Navy to commission UAV squadron at Porbandar|website=Zee News|date=5 January 2011|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110112034029/http://www.zeenews.com/news678714.html|archive-date=12 January 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> There are plans to have at least two more squadrons of UAVs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.domain-b.com/aero/indian_uav.htm|title=domain-b.com : Birds of a different feather|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923215819/http://www.domain-b.com/aero/indian_uav.htm|archive-date=23 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> UAVs are controlled from ships to increases the range of surveillance. There are plans to introduce rotary UAVs into the Indian Navy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/2006/12/15/stories/2006121504351600.htm|title=Maritime surveillance capability needs to be strengthened: Mehta|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130516044955/http://www.hindu.com/2006/12/15/stories/2006121504351600.htm|archive-date=16 May 2013|website=[[The Hindu]]|date=2006-12-15|url-status=dead}}</ref> These UAVs will have higher endurance and load carrying capability resulting in better reconnaissance capabilities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/002200802110325.htm|title=Indian Navy developing new generation UAV|access-date=5 June 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080415203103/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/002200802110325.htm|archive-date=15 April 2008|url-status=live}}</ref> Indian Navy operates 2 leased [[MQ-9 Reaper]] for maritime surveillance in the Indian Ocean region.<ref name="financialexpress.com">{{Cite web |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/modi-government-to-fast-track-acquisition-of-lethal-predator-drones-for-indian-navy-and-indian-army/1430508/ |title=Modi government to fast-track acquisition of lethal Predator drones for Indian Navy and Indian Army|website=The Financial Express |date=January 2019|access-date=22 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123010353/https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/modi-government-to-fast-track-acquisition-of-lethal-predator-drones-for-indian-navy-and-indian-army/1430508/ |archive-date=23 January 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> The service also operates a [[Drishti-10 Starliner|Drishti-10 ''Starliner'']] from Porbandar for [[Intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance|ISR missions]].<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2026-01-10 |title=Indian Navy to Induct 10 Drishti 10 MALE Drones for Round-the-Clock Sea Surveillance |url=https://defence.newsd.in/military/navy/indian-navy-to-induct-10-drishti-10-male-drones-for-round-the-clock-sea-surveillance |access-date=2026-01-12 |website=Newsd Defence |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite tweet |number=2009974133673861613 |user=Resonant_News |title=𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗡𝗮𝘃𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁 𝟭𝟬 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝘁𝗶 𝟭𝟬 𝗠𝗔𝗟𝗘 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀 |date=2026-01-10 |access-date=2026-01-12}}</ref>

== Training ==

* '''Fighter''': As of 2024, [[INAS 551]] is a pure shore-based fighter training squadron at [[INS Dega]]. Fighter pilots initially join this squadron for Naval Orientation Flying before being selected for undergoing conversion training for [[Mikoyan MiG-29K]]s at [[INAS 300]]. Later the pilots are qualified for operational service with MiG-29Ks with [[INAS 303]].<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Life on Squadron |url=https://www.joinindiannavy.gov.in/en/page/life-on-squadron.html |access-date=2024-10-18 |website=joinindiannavy.gov.in}}</ref>
* '''Fixed-wing''': [[INAS 550]] provides Dornier Operational Flying Training to fixed wing pilots at [[INS Garuda]]. The pilots are then further posted to operational squadrons equipped with Short Range Maritime Reconnaissance (SRMR) aircraft [[Dornier 228]] ([[INAS 310]], [[INAS 311|311]], [[INAS 313|313]], [[INAS 314|314]], [[INAS 318|318]]) or Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance (LRMR) aircraft [[Boeing P-8I Neptune]] ([[INAS 312]], [[316]]).<ref name=":4" /> The squadron shall also impart training to pilots of Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance (MRMR) aircraft [[EADS CASA C-295]] planned to be inducted in future.<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |date=2024-02-16 |title=Defence Ministry approves acquisition of 15 maritime patrol aircraft: Report |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/defence-ministry-approves-acquisition-of-15-maritime-patrol-aircraft-report-101708072429958.html |access-date=2024-02-16 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":32">{{Cite web |title=Aatmanirbhar Bharat: DAC clears capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 84,560 crore to boost the capabilities of the Armed Forces & Indian Coast Guard |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2006552 |access-date=2024-02-16 |website=[[Press Information Bureau]]}}</ref>
* '''Helicopter''': [[INAS 561]] acts as the Helicopter Training School (HTS) for training [[rotary-wing aircraft]] pilots and is based at [[INS Rajali]]. The pilots are trained for different roles like fleet support, [[MEDEVAC]] as well as [[Search and Rescue]]. They are also trained for operating from various types of platforms like shore bases, ships and even [[Oil platform|oil rigs]]. The pilots after graduation are posted to squadrons operating single engine helicopters like [[HAL Chetak]] ([[INAS 321]]). Later, pilots with adequate experience on HAL Chetaks are allotted to twin-engine helicopter squadrons. These include [[Westland Sea King|Sea King]] ([[INAS 330]], [[INAS 336|336]], [[INAS 339|339]] and [[INAS 350|350]]), [[Kamov Ka-31]] ([[INAS 339]]), [[Kamov Ka-27|Kamov Ka-28]] ([[INAS 333]]) and [[HAL Dhruv]] ([[INAS 322]], [[INAS 323|323]] and [[INAS 324|324]]).<ref name=":4" />

== Retired aircraft ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Aircraft
!Role
!Squadrons
!No.
!Service from
!Service till
!Notes
|-
|[[Short Sealand]]
|Amphibious seaplane
|[[INAS 550]]
|10
|1953
|N/A
|
|-
|[[Fairey Firefly]]
|Target tugging
|[[INAS 550]]
|10
|1955
|N/A
|''IN116'' crashed, ''IN112'' preserved in [[Naval Aviation Museum (Goa)|Naval Aviation Museum]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Fairey Firefly TT.1 & TT.4 |url=http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=102 |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=www.bharat-rakshak.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Pillarisetti |first1=Jagan |date=10 October 2006 |title=Fairey Firefly [INS112] |url=http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/goa/nam/37-fairey-firefly-ins112.html |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190409080339/http://www.warbirdsofindia.com/goa/nam/37-fairey-firefly-ins112.html |archivedate=9 April 2019 |accessdate=20 October 2020 |website=Warbirds of India}}</ref>
|-
|[[Hawker Sea Hawk|Hawker Sea Hawk FGA.6]]
|[[Carrier-based aircraft|Carrier-based fighter]]
|[[INAS 300]], 
[[INAS 551]]
|36
|1960
|1983
|Operated from [[INS Vikrant (1961)|INS Vikrant]]. There are several [[Hawker Sea Hawk#Surviving aircraft|surviving aircraft]].
|-
|[[Bréguet 1050 Alizé]]
|Carrier-based ASW aircraft
|[[INAS 310]]
|14
|1961
|1991
|Operated from [[INS Vikrant (1961)|INS Vikrant]]. One unit preserved in [[Naval Aviation Museum (Goa)|Naval Aviation Museum]].
|-
|[[Hughes 269|Hughes 269C]]
|Helicopter training
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|One unit preserved in [[Naval Aviation Museum (Goa)|Naval Aviation Museum]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Indian Naval Hughes 269C |url=http://jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=7498539&nseq=2 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140911001951/http://jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=7498539&nseq=2 |archive-date=11 September 2014 |access-date=21 February 2013 |publisher=jetphotos.net}}</ref>
|-
|[[HAL HPT-32 Deepak]]
|Basic Trainer
|N/A
|N/A
|8
|N/A
|N/A
|-
|[[Lockheed L-1049 Super Constellation]]
|[[Maritime patrol aircraft]]
|[[INAS 312]]
|N/A
|1976
|1983
|''IN315'' preserved in [[Naval Aviation Museum (Goa)|Naval Aviation Museum]]. Replaced by [[Tupolev Tu-142]].
|-
|[[British Aerospace Sea Harrier|BAe Sea Harrier FRS.51]]
|Carrier-based fighter
|[[INAS 300]], 
[[INAS 551]],
[[INAS 552]]
|30
|1988
|2016
|Operated from [[INS Viraat]] and initially from INS Vikrant. During retirement, 12 remained in service.
|-
|[[Tupolev Tu-142|Tupolev Tu-142MK-E]]
| rowspan="2" |Maritime patrol aircraft, ASW aircraft
|[[INAS 312]]
|8
|1988
|2017
|Replaced by [[Boeing P-8 Poseidon|Boeing P-8I Neptune]].<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.pib.gov.in/newsite/erelcontent.aspx?relid=160149 |title=De-Induction Of Indian Navy's TU142M Aircraft and Induction of Boeing P 8 I Into INAS 312 |website=[[Press Information Bureau]] |date=29 March 2017 |access-date=29 March 2017 |archive-date=25 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180825110356/http://www.pib.gov.in/newsite/erelcontent.aspx?relid=160149 |url-status=live}}</ref> Two units preserved including [[Beach Road, Visakhapatnam]] and [[New Town, Kolkata|New Town]], [[Kolkata]].<ref>{{cite web |title=TU 142M Aircraft Museum at Visakhapatnam |url=https://www.indiannavy.nic.in/content/tu-142m-aircraft-museum-visakhapatnam |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180914213752/https://www.indiannavy.nic.in/content/tu-142m-aircraft-museum-visakhapatnam |archive-date=14 September 2018 |access-date=20 January 2019 |website=[[Indian Navy]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=17 February 2020 |title=Indian Navy aircraft arrives in city, to be soon put up at naval museum |url=https://www.thestatesman.com/bengal/indian-navy-aircraft-arrives-city-soon-put-naval-museum-1502856886.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210802062451/https://www.thestatesman.com/bengal/indian-navy-aircraft-arrives-city-soon-put-naval-museum-1502856886.html |archive-date=2 August 2021 |access-date=6 September 2021 |website=[[The Statesman (India)|The Statesman]]}}</ref>
|-
|[[Ilyushin Il-38|Ilyushin Il-38SD]]
|[[INAS 315]]
|5
|1977
|2023
|Could carry 2 [[Sea Eagle (missile)|Sea Eagle]] and [[Kh-35|Kh-35E]] AShM. ''IN302'' and ''IN304'' crashed in 2002.<ref name=":02">{{Cite news |date=1 October 2002 |title=India navy planes collide in mid-air |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/2289429.stm |via=news.bbc.co.uk}}</ref> Replaced by [[Boeing P-8 Poseidon|Boeing P-8I Neptune.]]
|-
|[[IAI Searcher|IAI Searcher MkII]]
|[[Reconnaissance aircraft|Reconnaissance]] [[UAV]]
|[[INAS 342]]
|8
|2002
|2024
|<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-12-11 |title=After 22 yrs, Navy de-inducts eight Searcher Mk II UAVs |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/indian-navy-de-inducts-searcher-mk-ii-uavs-after-22-years-of-service/articleshow/116185617.cms |access-date=2024-12-17 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-12-10 |title=Navy bids farewell to eight Searcher Mk II UAVs |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/navy-bids-adieu-to-eight-searcher-mk-ii-uavs/article68969721.ece/ |access-date=2024-12-17 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
|-
|[[UH-3H Sea King|Sikorsky UH-3H Sea King]]
|[[Utility helicopter]]
|[[INAS 350]]
|6
|2009
|2024
|Six were bought along with {{INS|Jalashwa|L41}}.<ref name="indiannavy2">{{cite web |title=Indian Naval Air Squadrons|url=http://indiannavy.nic.in/naval-fleet/indian-naval-air-squadrons|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226081408/http://indiannavy.nic.in/naval-fleet/indian-naval-air-squadrons|archive-date=26 December 2014|accessdate=27 December 2014|publisher=Indian Navy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rajkumar |first=Mike |date=2024-07-02 |title=Indian navy retires UH-3H Sea Kings |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/indian-navy-retires-uh-3h-sea-kings/158988.article |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260226050239/https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/indian-navy-retires-uh-3h-sea-kings/158988.article |archive-date=2026-02-26 |access-date=2026-02-26 |website=Flight Global |language=en}}</ref> In 2024, three remaining units were replaced by [[Westland Sea King|Sea King 42C]].<ref name=":5" />
|}

==Future==
During [[List of Aero India Editions#15th edition (2025)|Aero India 2025]], the [[Chief of the Naval Staff (India)|Chief of Naval Staff]] [[Admiral (India)|Admiral]] [[Dinesh K Tripathi]] and Minister of State for Defence [[Sanjay Seth (Jharkhand politician)|Sanjay Seth]] released a vision document for naval aviation named Atmanirbhar Indian Naval Aviation Technology Roadmap, 2047. The roadmap focused on being equipping the Naval Air Arm with a 400 aircraft strong fleet capable of [[Network-centric warfare|network-cetric]] operations and indigenising the entire fleet by 2047. As per the document, the Navy will induct multiple aircraft types over the next two decades which include:<ref>{{Cite news |last=Srivatsa |first=Sharath S. |date=2025-02-12 |title=Aero India 2025: Indian Navy envisages a fleet of 400 aircraft to monitor maritime security |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/scope-for-domestic-industry-to-indigenise-solutions-in-maritime-air-domain-chief-of-naval-staff/article69210669.ece |access-date=2025-02-26 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Indian Navy releases vision document on naval aviation |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/indian-navy-releases-vision-document-on-naval-aviation-3402845 |access-date=2025-02-26 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Patil |first=Ramu |date=2025-02-07 |title=Indian Navy opens doors to innovators for critical naval aviation technologies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2025/Feb/13/indian-navy-opens-doors-to-innovators-for-critical-naval-aviation-technologies |access-date=2025-02-26 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>

* [[Fifth-generation fighter|fifth generation]] [[TEDBF|twin engine deck-based fighter]] multirole aircraft (replacing the current fighter fleet)
* Long Range, Medium Range and Short Range [[Maritime reconnaissance aircraft|Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft]]
* Aircraft Carrier-Borne [[Airborne Early Warning and Control]] Aircraft
* [[Amphibious aircraft]]
* [[Aerial tanker|Air-to-Air Refueller Aircraft]] (manned or uncrewed)
* [[Multirole helicopter|Multirole]] and heavy lift helicopters
* different types of [[remotely piloted aircraft]] and unmanned aerial systems.

=== Future acquisition ===
{{Excerpt|Future of the Indian Navy#Aircraft}}

==Structure==
Flag Officer Naval Aviation (FONA) controls training, maintenance and other functions of naval aviation. Aircraft yards at [[Kochi, India|Kochi]], [[Kerala]] and [[Dabolim]], [[Goa]] are responsible for maintaining the fleet's air arm. An exclusive base, [[INS Shikra]] for helicopters was commissioned in [[Mumbai]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/01/23/stories/2009012355401300.htm|title=Navy chief calls for enhanced preparedness|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103193431/http://www.hindu.com/2009/01/23/stories/2009012355401300.htm|archive-date=3 November 2012|website=[[The Hindu]]|date=2009-01-23|url-status=dead}}</ref>

To protect and preserve India's growing trade with Southeast Asia and offer a defence against increasing Chinese naval presence in the Bay of Bengal, a new naval base is being built near [[Visakhapatnam]].<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Aviation/Stations.html] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111117143844/http://bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Aviation/Stations.html|date=17 November 2011}}: Western Command</ref> It is expected to be capable of harbouring two aircraft carriers, including the planned new [[INS Vikrant (2013)|Vikrant-class aircraft carrier]]. There are two more naval air stations, [[INS Rajali]] and [[INS Parundu]] in [[Tamil Nadu]].

Southern Command has at least one airfield, [[INS Garuda]], in [[Kochi]], [[Kerala]].<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Aviation/Stations/69-INS-Garuda.html] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110718032328/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Aviation/Stations/69-INS-Garuda.html|date=18 July 2011}}: Southern Command</ref> [[The Hindu|The ''Hindu'']] reported on 2 February 2009 that a new airbase will be set up in [[Muscat]], [[Oman]] to tackle piracy in the [[Gulf of Aden]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2009/02/02/stories/2009020250210600.htm|title=Naval air base to tackle piracy|website=Business Line|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101106010951/http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2009/02/02/stories/2009020250210600.htm|archive-date=6 November 2010|url-status=live}}</ref> Three years later in 2012 it is not clear whether any action has been taken on this proposal.
The southernmost naval air station, [[INS Baaz]] was formally opened on 31 July 2012 by the [[Chief of Naval Staff (India)|Chief of the Indian Navy]] at [[Campbell Bay (Great Nicobar)|Cambell Bay]] in [[Andaman and Nicobar Islands]]. With the commissioning of this station, the country acquired increased capability to keep vigil on the vital maritime channel of the [[Straits of Malacca]].<ref>{{cite news| url= http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article3707955.ece| title= Naval air station opened in Campbell Bay| date= 1 August 2012| access-date= 1 August 2012| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120802210848/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article3707955.ece| archive-date= 2 August 2012| url-status= live}}</ref>

==Notable members==
Four naval aviators have risen to become the [[Chief of the Naval Staff (India)|Chief of the Naval Staff]] (CNS) - [[Admiral (India)|Admiral]]s [[R. H. Tahiliani]], [[Arun Prakash]], [[Sureesh Mehta]] and [[Karambir Singh]].

* Admiral [[Radhakrishna Hariram Tahiliani]] - the first naval aviator to serve as [[Chief of the Naval Staff (India)|Chief of the Naval Staff]].
* [[Vice Admiral (India)|Vice Admiral]] [[Mihir K. Roy]] - the first [[air observer|observer]] of the Indian Navy and the first aviator to command the aircraft carrier {{ship|INS|Vikrant|1961}}.
* Admiral [[Arun Prakash]] - the first [[Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command|Commander-in-Chief]] of the [[Andaman and Nicobar Command]] and the second aviator to rise to be CNS.
* Vice Admiral [[Shekhar Sinha]] - the first naval aviator to serve as [[Chief of Integrated Defence Staff]].
*[[Admiral (India)|Admiral]] [[Karambir Singh]] - the first helicopter aviator to become [[Chief of the Naval Staff (India)]]

==See also==

; Indian navy related lists
* [[List of active Indian military aircraft#Naval Air Arm|List of active aircraft of the Indian Naval Air Arm]]
* [[List of Indian Navy bases]]
* [[List of active Indian Navy ships]]
* [[List of ships of the Indian Navy]]
* [[List of submarines of the Indian Navy]]

; Other Indian navy related
* [[Naval ranks and insignia of India]]
* [[Indian maritime history]]
* [[Future of the Indian Navy]]
* [[Indian Coast Guard]]
* [[Middle Ground Coastal Battery]]
* [[Naval Aviation Museum (Goa)]]
* [[Naval Aircraft Museum (Kolkata)]]

; Indian military related 
*[[Army Aviation Corps (India)]]
* [[India-China Border Roads]]
* [[Integrated Space Cell#Military|Indian military satellites]]
* [[List of active Indian military aircraft]]
* [[List of Indian Air Force stations]]
* [[List of countries with overseas military bases#India|India's overseas military bases]]
* [[Nuclear Command Authority (India)|Indian Nuclear Command Authority]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Aircraft of the Indian Navy}}
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20091026052259/http://www.indian-military.org/home/reports/indian-military-blog/imorg-exclusive-admins-visit-to-vt-21-fighting-redhawks-at-us-naval-air-stationkingsville-tx.html Indian Navy Pilot training facility at US NAS Kingsville, Texas, USA]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100214161732/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Air-Arm.html Naval Air Arm]
* {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20060710173052/http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_431.shtml Indian Naval Aviation – Part 1 @ ACIG.org]}}
* {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20040804201915/http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_432.shtml Indian Naval Aviation – Part 2 @ ACIG.org]}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090412010100/http://www.lca-tejas.org/naval%20tejas.html Naval Tejas, lca-tejas.org]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeX4-vVWmRM Documentary on YouTube on the INS Vikrant]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0r4blywbzl8 Video of IL-38 of IN firing anti-ship missile]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-84fIZggHA YouTube video by user vishv with some good photographs]
* [https://www.flickr.com/photos/vikramwalia/2127148882/ INS Vikrant docked in Mumbai]
* [https://www.flickr.com/photos/mogun23/2112156393/ Image of Kamov helicopter]
* [https://defencenewshindi.com/p8i-submarine-hunter] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221211161610/https://defencenewshindi.com/p8i-submarine-hunter/ |date=11 December 2022 }}

{{Indian Navy}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Indian Naval Air Arm}}
[[Category:Indian Navy]]
[[Category:Indian naval aviation| ]]
[[Category:Naval aviation services]]
[[Category:Aviation in India|Naval Air Arm]]
[[Category:Units of the Indian Peace Keeping Force]]