India’s first-ever Indigenous Aircraft Carrier IAC Vikrant, to be known as INS Vikrant once it is commissioned, began its sea trials on Wednesday, August 4th. Designed by the Indian Navy, it is the first warship built by Cochin Shipyard.
As of August 8th, the Aircraft Carrier has ‘successfully accomplished its maiden voyage, and it will go through more trials to prove all equipment and systems’ according to the Indian Navy.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) tweeted that it had developed significant capabilities in design, construction, and network integration. The government-owned shipbuilding company also termed the carrier ‘advanced’ and ‘complex.’
The Navy mentions a high level of automation for machinery operation, navigation, and survivability.
INS Vikrant, 262 meters long and 62 meters wide, with a height of 59 meters, displaces around 45,000 metric tons. The carrier with 14 decks and 2300 compartments can accommodate 1700 crew and has specialized cabins to accommodate women officers.
Defence Minister touted the Aircraft Carrier as a shining example of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India Initiative.’ According to the Navy Spokesperson, 550 Indian Firms, including 100 MSME (Micro Small Medium Enterprises) registered with CSL, have provided various services in the endeavor.
Around 76 percent of the content is indigenous, as per the Navy circular.
Set to be deployed at Rambilli Naval Base near Visakhapatnam, which is not yet ready, the Aircraft Carrier could be deployed at Kattupalli near Chennai.