INS Vikramaditya | Science & Technology for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Introduction

INS Vikramaditya is an aircraft carrier acquired by India from Russia for a substantial sum of $2.3 billion. This formidable vessel was commissioned into the Indian Navy in November 2013, although it initially lacked critical air-defense systems. This article delves into the acquisition, modifications, and key features of INS Vikramaditya.

Acquisition and Cost

• Acquisition from Russia: India acquired INS Vikramaditya from Russia for a staggering $2.3 billion.
• Commissioning Date: The carrier was formally commissioned into the Indian Navy in November 2013.

Modifications and Refit

• Initial Shortcoming: Upon commissioning, the vessel lacked crucial air-defense systems.
• Guaranteed Refit: The necessary air-defense systems are now being installed during a "guaranteed refit" process.
• Scheduled Maintenance: Additionally, scheduled maintenance is being carried out by the original equipment manufacturer.

Class and Renaming

• Kiev-class Carrier: INS Vikramaditya is a modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier.
• Name Significance: The carrier was renamed in honor of Vikramaditya, a legendary 1st-century BCE emperor of Ujjain, India.

Weapon Systems

• Barak-1 Point Defense Missile: The Israeli-supplied Barak-1 point defense missile system is one of the key weapons installed on Vikramaditya.
• AK-630 Close-In Weapon System: The Russian-origin AK-630 close-in weapon system, borrowed from a to-be-decommissioned Godavari-class ship, also enhances the vessel's defenses.

Missile System Delay

• Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile: Originally, the carrier was slated to receive a long-range surface-to-air missile system developed jointly with Israel.
• Induction Without Air-Defense Cover: However, delays in the development of this system resulted in the carrier being inducted into the Indian Navy without its own air-defense cover.

Conclusion

INS Vikramaditya is a formidable aircraft carrier with a rich history of acquisition, modification, and renaming. It plays a crucial role in India's naval capabilities, despite the initial challenges in its air-defense systems.