The aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, the new symbol of the Indian Navy, is strongly known as the floating city of India.

The Indian Navy’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, has officially been inducted into service on September 2nd. This aircraft is expected to strengthen India’s position in the Indian Ocean region.

According to the AP news agency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated at the induction ceremony of the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier: “This is a historic day and a landmark achievement. This aircraft carrier is a symbol of the potential, resources, and expertise of India’s defense industry.”

It is noteworthy that INS Vikrant is the second aircraft carrier to be commissioned and the first one built domestically by New Delhi. The first one was INS Vikramaditya, which was purchased from Russia in 2004.

The “floating city” INS Vikrant – the new generation of the Indian NavyThe INS Vikrant aircraft carrier of India setting sail. Image: AP

The Indian Navy states that the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier is 262 meters long, 62 meters wide, and has a displacement of around 47,000 tons. The INS Vikrant is considered the largest warship that India has built domestically. This aircraft carrier has been inducted into service after over 17 years of design, construction, and testing.

INS Vikrant – The Floating City, the New Might of the Indian Navy

INS Vikrant is India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier. Image: Reuters

The operating range of the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier extends up to 7,500 nautical miles (13,890 km). With its impressive dimensions, INS Vikrant has more than 2,300 compartments, capable of housing 1,700 crew members.

INS Vikrant – The Floating City, the New Might of the Indian Navy

MiG-29K fighters are equipped aboard the aircraft carrier. Image: BBC

The ship can carry up to 30 fighter jets for air defense, ground attack, and land attack roles, including MiG-29K fighter jets, Kamov Ka-31 helicopters, and the MH-60R early warning helicopters. Additionally, India is considering purchasing the Rafale-M fighter from France or the F/A-18 from the US to operate on this ship.

INS Vikrant – The Floating City, the New Might of the Indian Navy

INS Vikrant has over 2,300 compartments, capable of housing 1,700 crew members. Image: ANI

In addition to its combat power, the new Indian flagship is also highly regarded for its advanced radar system, which can detect threats in the air and at sea from a distance. Furthermore, the INS Vikrant is equipped with 8 power generators capable of lighting up the city of Kochi, as well as a dedicated hospital complex with all the necessary equipment.

INS Vikrant – The Floating City, the New Might of the Indian Navy

Vikrant – the pride of India. Image: Cochin

For India, the indigenous construction of the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier, a highly advanced platform, marks a significant milestone in the naval industry. It is also a source of national pride, affirming India’s position and helping to reduce its dependence on imported weaponry.