INS Vikrant is a prominent aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy. It is the first indigenous aircraft carrier built in India and is named after the previous INS Vikrant, which served the Indian Navy from 1961 to 1997. The new INS Vikrant is a symbol of India’s growing maritime capabilities and self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The construction of INS Vikrant began in 2009 at the Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi, Kerala. The ship underwent extensive design, engineering, and construction processes involving various Indian defense organizations, including the Indian Navy, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and several private and public sector companies. The carrier’s design incorporates advanced technologies and features, making it a significant addition to India’s naval fleet.
INS Vikrant has a displacement of around 40,000 tons and a length of about 260 meters. It is powered by a gas turbine propulsion system and can achieve speeds of over 28 knots. The aircraft carrier has the capacity to carry various fixed-wing aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters, which can be launched using a ski-jump mechanism.
The commissioning of INS Vikrant is expected to enhance India’s naval capabilities significantly. It will provide a strategic edge to the Indian Navy, particularly in the Indian Ocean region, and contribute to the country’s defense preparedness and maritime security.
