INS Vikrant Gears Up: Simulating Two-Carrier Operations in the Arabian Sea

SOURCE: AFI

Last month, India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, joined the Western Fleet in a significant boost to the Indian Navy’s maritime capabilities. Now, the focus is on operational readiness as INS Vikrant prepares for a major exercise in the Arabian Sea.

According to the Western Naval Command, this upcoming exercise aims to simulate a real-world two-carrier tactical scenario. INS Vikrant will lead a Carrier Strike Group (CSG), a powerful warship formation typically comprising destroyers, frigates, and submarines working together to secure a specific area.

The exercise serves multiple purposes. One key objective is to comprehensively test all systems onboard INS Vikrant. This includes the air wing (combat aircraft), the air traffic control team, and the critical aircraft lift system that transports fighters from the hangar to the flight deck.

Another crucial aspect of the exercise involves evaluating the aircrew’s responsiveness. Simulated “scramble jets” orders will test their ability to react swiftly and efficiently, ensuring they meet the Navy’s specified Quick Reaction Stimson (QRS) standards.

Furthermore, the exercise will assess the aircrew’s proficiency in launching aircraft under demanding conditions. This includes night-time operations, adverse weather scenarios, and even situations where the carrier is experiencing rolling, pitching, and yawing motions, significantly increasing the difficulty of launching aircraft safely.

This rigorous training exercise represents a critical step in operationalizing INS Vikrant. By simulating a two-carrier environment and testing all aspects of carrier operations, the Indian Navy is ensuring that INS Vikrant is fully prepared to integrate seamlessly into the fleet and contribute to India’s maritime security.