SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Navy is poised for significant expansion with the anticipated clearance from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the development of a second aircraft carrier. This new vessel, modelled after the indigenously built INS Vikrant (displacement over 44,000 tons), will bolster the Navy’s capabilities in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
However, the Navy’s ambitions extend beyond the second carrier. Discussions are ongoing regarding the development of a third, even larger carrier, boasting a displacement exceeding 65,000 tons. This potential addition to the fleet underscores India’s strategic vision for a robust naval presence in the region.
The initial plan for nuclear propulsion for the third carrier has been shelved due to its exorbitant cost. Navy officials estimate that building two conventional carriers would be more cost-effective than constructing a single nuclear-powered one.
The recent unveiling of China’s third aircraft carrier, with a displacement estimated between 80,000 and 85,000 tons, has prompted the Indian Navy to re-evaluate the proposed 65,000-ton design. An increase in displacement by 10% or a complete re-assessment of the size may be necessary to maintain a balance of power in the region.
The Indian Navy has a critical deadline to meet. By 2038, the INS Vikramaditya, a Russian-built carrier currently in service, is slated for retirement. The operationalization of the new carriers, particularly the third one, needs to be strategically planned to ensure a seamless transition and maintain a robust carrier presence.
The United Kingdom has offered a technology transfer (ToT) for its Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier design. While the Indian Navy has yet to make a decision on this offer, it reflects potential avenues for international collaboration in this crucial project.
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