The nation’s first-ever indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC) called ‘Vikrant’ is all set to sail for the 3rd phase of sea trials. The Indian Navy that this phase of trials will include complex maneuvers which will establish specific readings of how the ship will perform in various conditions.
The first sea trials were conducted back in August 2021. The maiden trial was performed to determine the propulsion, navigational suite, and a few basic operations. The ship, in the second trial, was out for ten days to prove its sustenance and some seamanship evolutions were also cleared successfully.
This warship called Vikrant is the Indian Navy’s first-ever Made in India aircraft carrier ship. It is estimated to be commissioned by the end of August this year. This will include India in the list of nations that have the capabilities to design and build an aircraft carrier. This list has nations such as the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Russia, Italy, and China.
The ship has now gained confidence and is now ready to sail to undertake complex maneuvers to set up specific readings of how the ship will perform in various situations. A DRDO based laboratory called the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory based in Vishakhapatnam has sent out its scientists for the trials. The trials will also have the sensor suits of the ship tested properly.
These fast developments have happened after the two successive visits by the President and the Vice-President of India in the period of fewer than two weeks. Both the high-profile dignitaries reviewed the progress of the IAC and also conveyed their satisfaction. All the stakeholders were congratulated and best wishes were extended by the dignitaries.
India had acquired its previous aircraft carriers from the United Kingdom and Russia. It is considered to be a landmark in the history of Indian Warship construction. The ship is 262 meters long, 62 meters at its widest, and has a depth of 30 meters excluding the superstructure. It has 14 decks in total including the 5 in the superstructure of the ship. It also has over 2300 compartments which are built for a crew of around 1700 personnel. It will also have specialized cabins to accommodate women officers and crew members.
‘Vikrant’s top speed is said to be around 28 knots and the cruising speed is around 18 knots. The ship can almost cover the entire Indian coastline without having to refuel. Being the fourth aircraft to be operated by the Indian Navy, and the first to be manufactured in India, this is an extraordinary feat achieved by the Navy and they deserve all the applauds.