INS Vikrant

Description

GS PAPER III: Security challenges and their management in border areas - linkages of organized crime with terrorism.

Context: Raksha Mantri reviewed the progress of construction of first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) built by M/s Cochin Shipyard Ltd.

INS Vikrant

The IAC would be commissioned as INS Vikrant in the first half of 2022, which would be the most potent sea-based asset.
It is expected to have a top speed of 30 knots (approximately 55 kmph) and is propelled by four gas turbines.
Its endurance is 7,500 nautical miles at 18 knots (32 kmph) speed. The vessel can carry up to 1,500 personnel and has 2,300 compartments.
The ship shall operate MiG-29K fighter aircraft, Kamov-31 Air Early Warning Helicopters, the soon to be inducted MH-60R multi-role helicopter and the indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopters.
With an overall length of 263 metre and a breadth of 63 metre, it is the largest vessel made in India and carries a price tag of about ₹20,000 crore.
The towering vessel has a total of 15 decks and a displacement of 40,000 tonnes.
It would offer an incomparable military instrument with its ability to project Air Power over long distances, including Air Interdiction, Anti-Surface Warfare, offensive and defensive Counter-Air, Airborne Anti-Submarine Warfare and Airborne Early Warning.
IAS is a shining example of ‘AatmaNirbhar Bharat’ as it has nearly 75 per cent indigenous content - from design to steel used in construction to key weapons and sensors.
IAS will add formidable capabilities in the defence of the country and help secure India's interests in maritime domain.
IAC and Project Seabird at Karwar, which will be the Asia’s largest Naval Base, are examples of India’s unwavering focus.
It will help to realize the vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and the wider goal of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific to ensure peace and stability in the region.

‘Project Seabird’

It is the largest naval infrastructure project for India.
It involves creation of a naval base at Karwar on the west coast of India.
Upon completion, this $3 billion program and effort will provide the Indian Navy with its largest naval base on the west coast and also the largest naval base east of the Suez Canal.
The new and expanded naval complex will be able to support several major warships and submarines and yard crafts.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1730269