India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, has marked a significant milestone by achieving full operational status after successfully completing its final operational clearance this year. Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, announced this development during a press briefing aboard the naval ship INS Shardul in Kochi, Kerala.
During his address, Vice Admiral Srinivas emphasized that with the completion of various trials and successful fleet integration, INS Vikrant is now fully operational and is currently deployed under the Western Fleet. He asserted the ship’s extensive capabilities, stating that it is fully equipped to undertake all operational responsibilities and commitments of the Indian Navy.
INS Vikrant, commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2022, is now integrated into the Western Naval Command, ready to fulfill a wide range of naval assignments. Constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited, the aircraft carrier holds the distinction of being the largest vessel ever built in India’s maritime history. It was designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and features cutting-edge automation technology. The ship comprises approximately 2,200 compartments and is designed to accommodate a crew of around 1,600 personnel, including women officers and sailors.
Furthermore, INS Vikrant is strategically equipped to operate a versatile air wing, which includes MiG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31 helicopters, MH-60R multi-role helicopters, as well as indigenously developed Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) specifically designed for naval operations. This capability enhances the operational readiness of the Indian Navy and strengthens its presence in the maritime domain.
As the Indian Navy gears up for a major power upgrade encompassing various defense components, the operational readiness of INS Vikrant serves as a critical asset in enhancing the nation’s naval strength and security posture.
