NB BUREAU
India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant will be commissioned on September 2 putting India in the league of a select group of nations such as the US, the UK, Russia, China and France that are able to build an aircraft carrier.
The ship will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi.
Along with its first IAC ship, the Indian Navy will also get its new ensign. PM Narendra Modi will unveil the new naval ensign (Nishan) to help it in doing away with the colonial past and befitting the rich Indian maritime heritage.
According to the press releases issued by the Indian Navy, INS Vikrant is designed by the Warship Design Bureau (WDB), Indian Navy’s in-house organisation and built by M/s Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), a Public Sector Shipyard under Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways.
“The 262 m long and 62 m wide Vikrant displaces approx 43000 T when fully loaded, having a maximum designed speed of 28 Knots with endurance of 7500 NM. The ship has around 2200 compartments, designed for a crew of around 1600 that include specialised cabins to accommodate women officers and sailors.” adds the statement.
INS Vikrant is capable of operating air wing consisting of 30 aircraft comprising of MiG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31, MH-60R multi-role helicopters, in addition to indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) (Navy).
The commissioning of INS Vikrant will give boost to India’s attempts to become a self-reliant nation.
“Commissioning of ‘Vikrant’ would be a proud and landmark moment for the Nation showcasing our Aatma Nirbhar credentials during ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’, a true testament to the country’s zeal and fervour in pursuing capability build up towards enhanced maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region”
