Visakhapatnam has a new jewel in its coastal crown: a Navy helicopter museum featuring a de-inducted UH-3H helicopter, adding to the city's unique collection of maritime attractions. Formally opened on Beach Road, the museum allows visitors to step inside the aircraft and experience naval aviation history firsthand.
The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) invested ₹3.5 crore into the project. The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) leased the land to VMRDA. The museum joins the ranks of the TU-142 aircraft museum, the submarine museum, and the Sea Harrier museum.
The UH-3H, nicknamed "Saaras" (meaning crane), was acquired from the United States in 2007 along with INS Jalashwa. Six helicopters were inducted on March 24, 2009, serving under INAS 350 Squadron at INS Dega until their de-induction on June 28, 2024. The Indian Navy officially bid farewell to the UH-3H after 17 years of service during a de-induction ceremony at INS Dega in June 2024. To honor its legacy, one aircraft was permanently installed in Visakhapatnam to inspire future generations. Navy officials handed over a commemorative plaque to the state government, marking the formal transfer.
The amphibious, all-weather helicopter features a semi-monocoque, boat-type hull and an automated folding system for shipboard storage. It had a top speed of 210 km/h and a range of 675 km, and could carry up to 19 passengers. Equipped for anti-submarine warfare, it carried sonar systems, torpedoes, and missiles and, during the Cold War, could carry a B-57 nuclear bomb.
The VMRDA Commissioner explained that the project aims to give tourists the opportunity to go inside the UH-3H helicopter and display its parts and its history through interactive exhibits. The UH-3H helicopter embodies a milestone in the Indian history of naval aviation. It participated in many special operations and maritime missions, besides search and rescue (SAR) during disasters and natural calamities.
The museum is expected to be inaugurated shortly during Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu's visit to the city. Visakhapatnam is the only city in India to have five maritime museums within a 500 meters proximity. The Navy also hosts a weekly light and sound show every Sunday at the Victory At Sea Memorial on the Beach Road. The show highlights the maritime strength and legacy of the Indian Navy.
The addition of the UH-3H at RK Beach adds to the scenic tourism in Visakhapatnam and is also an educational attraction showcasing the efforts and achievements of naval aviation in India. With the addition of 'Saaras,' RK Beach stands as a symbol of India's maritime strength, valor, and innovation.
