INS Vikrant

The INS Vikrant is a matter of pride for the Indian Navy, as it is the first aircraft carrier to be built indigenously in India. The vessel was built by the Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kerala and commissioned by the Indian Navy in August 2022. The INS Vikrant is a symbol of India’s commitment to self-reliance in the defence sector and the progress the country has made in the field of shipbuilding.

Background

The INS Vikrant is named after India’s first aircraft carrier, which was commissioned in 1961 and served in the Indian Navy until 1997. The name Vikrant is derived from the Sanskrit word “victory,” and the motto of the ship is also in Sanskrit, which roughly translates to “I defeat those who fight against me.”

Design and Construction

The design and construction of the INS Vikrant is a significant achievement for India’s shipbuilding industry. The vessel has a displacement of around 40,000 tonnes and is 262 meters long, making it the largest warship ever built in India. The INS Vikrant is equipped with a wide range of weapons and sensors, including advanced radar systems, anti-aircraft guns, and missiles.

The aircraft carrier is powered by four General Electric LM2500+ gas turbines and can achieve a top speed of 28 knots. It has a complement of up to 1,500 personnel, including aircrew.

Operational Capabilities

The INS Vikrant is a versatile and powerful warship that can operate in a variety of roles. It can carry up to 30 fixed-wing aircraft, including the MiG-29K fighter jets, as well as helicopters for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and transport missions. The vessel’s advanced sensors and communication systems allow it to operate effectively in both defensive and offensive roles.

The aircraft carrier is also capable of supporting special forces operations, such as amphibious assaults and maritime security missions. Its large deck area and advanced aviation facilities make it an ideal platform for launching and recovering a variety of aircraft in different weather conditions.

Naval Commanders’ Conference-2023

The inaugural edition of the Naval Commanders’ Conference-2023 is being organized aboard INS Vikrant. The conference provides a platform for senior naval officers to discuss key security concerns at the military-strategic levels and interact with senior government functionaries. The conference also aims to review the Indian Navy’s operational preparedness and capabilities and chart a course for future growth and development.