INS Vikrant: First Indigenous Aircraft Carrier | Science & Technology for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Introduction

• INS Vikrant, named after its predecessor that played a vital role in the 1971 war, represents a significant achievement for India.
• Designed by the Indian Navy's Directorate of Naval Design (DND), this carrier was constructed at Cochin Shipyard Limited, a public sector shipyard under the Ministry of Shipping.
• It exemplifies India's commitment to 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat' (Self-reliant India) and the 'Make in India Initiative,' boasting over 76 percent indigenous content.
• Notably, INS Vikrant is the largest and most complex warship ever designed and built in India.

Technical Specifications

• Size and Speed: INS Vikrant is expected to have a top speed of 30 knots (approximately 55 km/h) and can cover a distance of 7,500 nautical miles at 18 knots (32 km/h).
• Propulsion: The carrier is powered by four gas turbines.
• Aircraft Component: It will accommodate 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31 airborne early warning helicopters, and the MH-60R multi-role helicopter, in addition to indigenous Advanced Light Helicopters.
• Weapon Systems: The carrier is equipped with Barak LR SAM and AK-630 as shipborne weapons and features MFSTAR and RAN-40L 3D radars, along with a Shakti EW (Electronic Warfare) Suite.

Significance for India

• Command Platform: Aircraft carriers like INS Vikrant represent dominance over vast oceanic areas, control over maritime strength, and play a crucial role in India's defense strategy.
• Strategic Advantage: The carrier enhances India's strategic advantage, especially in potential border conflicts along disputed land boundaries.
• Sea-Lines of Communication: It safeguards sea-lines of communication, critical for protecting merchant shipping carrying strategic commodities to India.
• Maintaining Influence in IOR: INS Vikrant helps India maintain influence in the Indian Ocean region, countering potential extra-regional powers seeking to displace its influence.
• Safeguarding Vital Interests Overseas: Carrier aviation allows India to safeguard its strategic interests in politically unstable Afro-Asian states and protect its citizens working there.
• Security of Island Territories: Integral naval aviation is essential for the defense of far-flung island territories, particularly the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, acting as a deterrent against potential foreign claims.
• Non-Military Missions: Apart from its military role, the carrier can support non-military missions, such as responding to natural disasters in regional seas, providing airlift, sealift, and essential services.

Conclusion

• INS Vikrant represents a remarkable achievement for India in its pursuit of self-reliance and indigenous defense capabilities.
• It plays a pivotal role in India's maritime defense strategy, securing its interests in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
• This indigenous aircraft carrier signifies a significant step forward in India's military capabilities and its ability to protect its national interests, both at home and abroad.