Indian Navy Demonstrates Maritime Prowess with Integrated Carrier Exercise in Arabian Sea

New Delhi: The Indian Navy recently conducted a major exercise in the Arabian Sea, showcasing its maritime capabilities. The operation involved the integration of two aircraft carriers, namely the INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant. This exercise demonstrated India’s technological expertise and featured over 35 aircraft, including fighter jets, helicopters, and submarines.

INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant are significant assets for the Indian Navy, functioning as floating airfields. They provide a launch platform for various aircraft and offer flexibility in mission deployment. These warships enhance India’s ability to respond to emerging threats and safeguard national interests worldwide, while also reassuring friendly nations of the Indian Navy’s readiness to support collective security in the region.

The successful demonstration of two-carrier battle group operations emphasizes the crucial role of sea-based air power in maintaining maritime superiority. It marks the first time that the Indian Navy has operated two contemporary technology carriers, equipped with similar long-range radars, fighter jets, and sensors.

India’s naval journey began in 1961 with the acquisition of the HMS Hercules, renamed INS Vikrant. Subsequently, the country obtained the HMS Hermes, renamed INS Viraat, in 1987. However, these carriers were retired due to their outdated technology. In 2013, the INS Vikramaditya (formerly Admiral Gorshkov) was commissioned after being refurbished to meet Indian specifications.

Previously, India had briefly operated two UK-origin carriers from 1987 to 1997, but they were considerably older and technologically inferior. From 2013 to 2017, India operated the INS Vikramaditya and the INS Viraat together, with the latter nearing the end of its service life.