INS Vikrant is the first aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy and holds historical significance as India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier. The name “Vikrant” means “courageous” or “victorious” in Sanskrit. Here are some key points about INS Vikrant:
1. **Construction**: The construction of INS Vikrant began in 2009 at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi, Kerala. It was built using indigenously sourced materials and expertise, marking a significant milestone in India’s naval shipbuilding capabilities.
2. **Launch**: INS Vikrant was launched on August 12, 2013, by then Defence Minister A.K. Antony’s wife, Elizabeth Antony. The launch ceremony was a momentous occasion for India’s defense sector and marked a significant step forward in the country’s maritime capabilities.
3. **Commissioning**: INS Vikrant is expected to be commissioned into the Indian Navy once it completes its sea trials and undergoes various tests and evaluations. It will join the Indian Navy’s fleet of aircraft carriers and play a crucial role in enhancing India’s maritime security and power projection capabilities.
4. **Features**: INS Vikrant is a 262-meter-long and 60-meter-wide aircraft carrier with a displacement of around 40,000 tons. It is equipped with a variety of advanced sensors, communication systems, and defensive armaments to protect itself and its aircraft.
5. **Aircraft Operations**: INS Vikrant will be capable of operating a mix of fixed-wing aircraft, including fighter jets, reconnaissance aircraft, and airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft. It will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s ability to conduct air operations at sea.
6. **Strategic Importance**: Aircraft carriers like INS Vikrant play a crucial role in modern naval warfare by projecting power, conducting maritime surveillance, providing air support to ground forces, and conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations.
Overall, INS Vikrant represents a significant achievement for India’s defense industry and naval capabilities. It underscores the country’s commitment to enhancing its maritime security and asserting its influence in the Indian Ocean region.