INS Vikrant, India’s First Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, To Be Commissioned

India is set to mark a significant milestone in its naval capabilities as the INS Vikrant, the country’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, is scheduled to be commissioned today. This momentous occasion underscores India’s self-reliance in its defence capabilities and its position as a global player in shipbuilding.

The INS Vikrant, designed by the Indian Navy’s Directorate of Naval Design (DND) and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), is the largest and most complex warship ever constructed in India. It is a testament to the country’s growing technological prowess and its ability to design and build advanced naval vessels.

Here are five key points about the INS Vikrant:

• Design and Construction: The INS Vikrant is designed to carry over 30 aircraft, including a mix of Russian MiG-29K fighter jets and Kamov Ka-31 helicopters. It has a length of 262 meters, a maximum breadth of 62 meters, and a displacement of 40,000 tonnes. The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including a modern control system and a sophisticated power generation and distribution system.
• Strategic Importance: The commissioning of the INS Vikrant is of immense strategic importance for India. It will bolster the Indian Navy’s blue-water capabilities and enhance its ability to project power in the Indian Ocean region, a key area of strategic interest for India. The INS Vikrant will also play a crucial role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests and ensuring the security of its sea lanes.
• Indigenization: The INS Vikrant is a shining example of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. About 76% of the ship’s components, including its steel, have been sourced domestically. The construction of the INS Vikrant has provided a significant boost to the Indian shipbuilding industry and has created numerous job opportunities.
• Trials and Testing: The INS Vikrant has successfully completed all its sea trials, demonstrating its capabilities in various operational scenarios. The ship’s systems and equipment have been tested thoroughly to ensure their reliability and effectiveness.
• Commissioning Ceremony: The commissioning ceremony of the INS Vikrant will be held at the Naval Dockyard in Kochi. It will be attended by senior officials from the Indian Navy, the Ministry of Defence, and the Government of India.

The commissioning of the INS Vikrant is a proud moment for India and a significant step towards achieving self-reliance in defence production. It reaffirms India’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests and contributing to regional and global security.