First indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC) of India, named Vikrant, started its second phase of sea trials on October 24, 2022, in the backdrop of its planned induction into the Indian Navy by August 2022.
Key Facts
- INS Vikrant is a 40,000-tonne aircraft carrier.
- It is the largest and most complex warship that is built in India.
- It completed a five-day maiden sea voyage in August 2021, successfully.
- The warship has been constructed at a cost of Rs 23,000 crores.
- With its construction, India joined the select group of countries that have capabilities to build the state-of-the-art aircraft carriers.
About INS Vikrant
IAC Vikrant has been constructed at a cost of Rs 23000 crores. It is a 40000-tonne aircraft carrier. It will operate MH-60R multi-role helicopters, MiG-29K fighter jets and MKamov-31 helicopters. It comprises of more than 2300 compartments and has been designed for a crew of 1700 people. It also comprises of specialised cabins to accommodate women officers. the aircraft carrier has a top speed of 28 knots & a cruising speed is of 18 knots. It is having an endurance of around 7,500 nautical miles. Construction of 262 metres long & 62 metres wide carrier was started in 2009. Its height is 59 metres.
Who built the warship?
INS Vikrant has been built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).
Why was the warship constructed?
INS Vikrant has been constructed as Indian Navy has been focusing on significantly boosting its overall capabilities considering the growing influence of Chinese military in Indian Ocean Region. Indian Ocean is considered as the backyard of the Indian Navy and is critical for strategic interests of India.