India: Major Milestone in Construction of INS Vikrant

INS Vikrant, India’s first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) has hit the waters today at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Cochin, Kerala state.

The launching of the 37, 500-tonne warship, will be followed by additional outfitting works which are expected to be completed by June 2014. Subsequently, the aircraft carrier will proceed for extensive sea trials in 2016 before getting commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2018.

Designed by the Directorate of Naval Design (DND), the superstructure features 260 metres in length and 60 metres in width.

The aircraft carrier will be able to accommodate up to 30 aircrafts including MiG 29K and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). Driven by LM2500 Gas Turbines of 80 MW power, INS Vikrant will have the ability to reach a speed of 28 knots.

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Naval Today Staff, August 12, 2013; Image: Indian Navy