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The INS Vikrant proudly serves in the Indian Navy as the nation’s first domestically built aircraft carrier. This vessel is positioned as the seventh largest among global carriers. The vessel is expected to achieve full operational status by November 2023.
The ship is equipped with approximately 2,200 compartments, tailored to accommodate a crew of approximately 1,600 individuals, which includes dedicated cabins for women officers and sailors. The carrier is capable of accommodating approximately 30 aircraft, encompassing a diverse mix of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. This includes Russian-made MiG-29K fighters and Ka-31 airborne early-warning helicopters, alongside Indian-manufactured Dhruv utility helicopters and U.S.-produced MH-60R maritime helicopters. Notably, on February 6, 2023, the carrier achieved two successful arrested landings, involving MiG-29Ks and a HAL Tejas (Naval Variant).
The Vikrant is equipped with a robust array of defense systems, including a 32-cell VLS (Vertical Launch System) for the Barak 8 Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM), enhancing its anti-aircraft capabilities. Additionally, it features four Otobreda 76mm dual-purpose cannons and four AK-630 Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS) in place, providing rapid and effective defense against incoming threats.
