In a powerful symbol of India's growing naval capabilities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with sailors aboard the nation's pride - INS Vikrant, India's first indigenously built aircraft carrier. The historic visit underscored the government's commitment to 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' in defence manufacturing.
A Diwali Celebration Steeped in Strategic Significance
Prime Minister Modi's decision to spend the festival of lights with naval personnel on the warship sent a strong message about India's maritime ambitions. The event wasn't just a ceremonial visit but a strategic demonstration of India's homegrown defence capabilities.
5 Remarkable Facts About INS Vikrant That Define Indian Engineering
1. Complete Indigenous Design and Construction
Unlike previous naval vessels, INS Vikrant was entirely designed by the Indian Navy's in-house Directorate of Naval Design and constructed at Cochin Shipyard Limited. This marks a monumental achievement in India's quest for self-reliance in defence technology.
2. Massive Scale and Impressive Specifications
This engineering marvel stretches 262 meters long and stands 59 meters tall, with over 2,200 compartments designed to accommodate a crew of 1,700 personnel. The sheer scale of this project demonstrates India's advanced shipbuilding capabilities.
3. Advanced Aviation Operations
The carrier features a sophisticated Air Wing consisting of 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31 helicopters, and indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopters. The vessel can achieve speeds exceeding 28 knots, making it a formidable presence in maritime operations.
4. Four-Year Construction Timeline
From its launch in 2013 to commissioning in 2022, INS Vikrant's journey represents one of the most ambitious and successfully executed defence projects in recent Indian history, showcasing the efficiency of indigenous manufacturing processes.
5. Economic and Strategic Boost
The project generated approximately 15,000 direct and indirect jobs while involving more than 2,000 Indian supplier firms. This not only strengthens national security but also significantly boosts the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The Future of Indian Naval Power
INS Vikrant represents more than just a warship; it embodies India's technological prowess and strategic autonomy. As Prime Minister Modi emphasized during his Diwali visit, this achievement positions India among the select group of nations capable of designing and building their own aircraft carriers.
The successful commissioning of INS Vikrant marks a new chapter in India's maritime history, demonstrating that when it comes to safeguarding national interests, India is increasingly capable of relying on its own engineering excellence and manufacturing capabilities.
