Indian Navy's Strategic Shift: Replacing INS Vikramaditya with Indigenous 65,000-tonne Aircraft Carrier IAC-2
In a significant strategic decision, the Indian Navy has opted to replace its aging aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya, with the upcoming Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC-2), rather than expanding to a three-carrier fleet as previously envisioned. This move reflects a reassessment of naval priorities and capabilities.
INS Vikramaditya: A Pillar of Naval Strength
Commissioned in 2013, INS Vikramaditya has been a cornerstone of India's maritime power. Originally a Russian vessel, it was extensively refurbished to serve the Indian Navy. However, with its operational life expected to conclude by 2038, plans are underway to develop a successor that aligns with modern naval warfare requirements.
Introducing IAC-2: The Future of Indian Naval Aviation
The proposed IAC-2, tentatively named INS Vishal, represents a leap in indigenous naval engineering. Envisioned as a 65,000-tonne vessel, it is expected to feature advanced technologies such as the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG). These systems would enable the carrier to efficiently launch and recover a diverse range of aircraft, enhancing its operational versatility.
Key Specifications of IAC-2:
- Displacement: Approximately 65,000 tonnes
- Length: Around 330 meters
- Beam: Approximately 60 meters
- Propulsion: Integrated electric propulsion system
- Speed: Estimated top speed of 28 knots
- Aircraft Capacity: Capable of accommodating up to 55 aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters
Strategic Implications of the Two-Carrier Decision
The decision to maintain a two-carrier fleet, comprising INS Vikrant and the forthcoming IAC-2, has significant strategic implications. While a three-carrier fleet would ensure continuous carrier presence in both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, the current approach emphasizes enhancing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and deploying more advanced vessels.
This strategy also reflects a focus on addressing immediate maritime security challenges, particularly in the context of increasing naval activities by neighboring countries in the Indian Ocean Region.
Advancing Indigenous Shipbuilding
The development of IAC-2 underscores India's commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Building upon the experience gained from constructing INS Vikrant, the IAC-2 project aims to further strengthen domestic shipbuilding expertise, contributing to the nation's long-term strategic autonomy.
By choosing to replace INS Vikramaditya with the indigenously developed IAC-2, the Indian Navy is aligning its force structure with contemporary strategic needs and technological advancements. This decision highlights a balanced approach to maintaining maritime dominance while fostering indigenous defense capabilities.
