SOURCE: AFI
INS Vikramaditya, the mighty aircraft carrier and a symbol of India’s maritime prowess, marks 11 years of illustrious service to the nation. Since its commissioning into the Indian Navy on 16 November 2013, this behemoth of a warship has been the centerpiece of India’s naval capabilities, embodying its motto, “Strike Far, Strike Sure.”
Acquired from Russia and extensively modernized, INS Vikramaditya is a 45,400-tonne carrier capable of serving as a floating airbase. As a flagship of the Sword Arm of the Indian Navy, it has bolstered India’s ability to project power far beyond its shores and ensures the security of the nation’s vast maritime interests.
INS Vikramaditya was designed for a seaworthy lifespan of 25 years, and as it celebrates 11 years of active service, it approaches the halfway point of its operational life. The ship has undergone regular maintenance, including a significant refit in 2021-2022, ensuring that it remains combat-ready and technologically up-to-date.
India has shown its commitment to maintaining the carrier’s operational effectiveness, as seen in upgrades to its systems and infrastructure, allowing it to seamlessly integrate with the growing technological demands of modern naval warfare.
Key Achievements in Service
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR):
In addition to combat roles, INS Vikramaditya has been at the forefront of HADR missions, exemplifying the Navy’s motto of service before self.
Operational Deployments:
INS Vikramaditya has participated in numerous maritime exercises, including Malabar, Varuna, and TROPEX, demonstrating its strategic importance in multi-nation collaborations.
Force Projection:
The carrier has played a critical role in showcasing India’s naval power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and beyond, deterring adversaries while reinforcing alliances.
INS Vikramaditya’s journey so far has been nothing short of remarkable. As it sails into the second half of its operational lifespan, the carrier continues to symbolize India’s resolve to secure its maritime frontiers and strike with precision when called upon.