Context-

On March 5, both aircraft carriers of the Indian Navy, INS Vikramaditya, and INS Vikrant, showcased “twin carrier operations” with MiG-29K fighter jets taking off simultaneously from both and landing cross deck.

The success of the INS Vikrant marks a significant milestone for India's naval capabilities and indigenous defense industry. Commissioned in September 2022, the INS Vikrant represents a leap forward in India's capacity to design, construct, and operate aircraft carriers. This achievement not only enhances India's maritime power projection but also strengthens its strategic position in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and beyond.

Significance of INS Vikrant

The INS Vikrant symbolizes a remarkable achievement in India's naval capabilities, representing a significant leap in indigenous defense manufacturing. Commencing its design phase in 1999, the years between 2005-2006 marked pivotal moments in its development, particularly regarding the decision to produce warship-grade steel domestically. This collaborative effort between the Steel Authority of India, DRDO, and the Indian Navy led to the creation of DMR-249 steel, revolutionizing the country's shipbuilding industry.

Engineering Marvel of INS Vikrant

Despite delays, the INS Vikrant stands as an engineering marvel, boasting impressive dimensions and capabilities. Spanning over 12,450 m2, powered by four General Electric LM2500 engines generating 88 MW of power, and constructed with 76% indigenous content, the vessel's scale and technological prowess are commendable. Its facilities, including two galleys capable of preparing thousands of meals daily, highlight its self-sufficiency and operational efficiency.

Operational Capabilities

The INS Vikrant's operational capabilities are equally impressive, capable of hosting an air wing of 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31, MH-60R multi-role helicopters, and indigenous aircraft. Utilizing the STOBAR method for aircraft launch and recovery, the vessel employs advanced technologies and infrastructure for precise and efficient operations. Its significance is further emphasized by its larger deck space and advanced features compared to previous carriers, highlighting India's commitment to modernization and strategic readiness.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

The INS Vikrant's significance is contextualized within India's naval history, which includes previous carriers like the Vikrant and INS Viraat. Looking ahead, negotiations with France for the acquisition of Rafale-M carrier jets and ongoing developments in indigenous fighter aircraft underscore India's commitment to enhancing its carrier capabilities. As the INS Vikrant leads the charge in indigenous carrier manufacturing, it sets the stage for future advancements and strategic initiatives in India's naval modernization efforts.

Development of DMR-249 Steel

The development of DMR-249 steel represents a pivotal moment in India's journey towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Prior to its development, India relied on imported warship-grade steel, primarily sourced from Russia. Recognizing the strategic importance of indigenous production, collaborative efforts were initiated between key stakeholders including the Steel Authority of India, the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO), and the Indian Navy. This collaborative endeavor aimed to develop a domestically produced steel variant that met the stringent requirements of warship construction.

Through rigorous research, development, and testing, DMR-249 steel was successfully developed and implemented in the construction of the INS Vikrant and subsequent warships. This achievement not only reduced dependency on foreign suppliers but also bolstered India's technological capabilities in materials engineering. The establishment of domestic production facilities for DMR-249 steel not only ensured a secure supply chain for defense projects but also catalyzed growth in the domestic steel industry. Moreover, the successful development of DMR-249 steel underscored India's commitment to self-reliance and indigenous innovation in defense manufacturing, laying the foundation for future advancements in materials science and engineering.

Prospects for a Third Aircraft Carrier

India's pursuit of a third aircraft carrier reflects its strategic imperative to maintain a robust naval presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and beyond. While the INS Vikrant represents a significant leap forward in indigenous carrier capabilities, the Indian Navy has recognized the need for additional assets to fulfill its operational requirements effectively. The proposed Indigenous Aircraft Carrier-II (IAC-II) signifies India's commitment to expanding its carrier fleet and enhancing maritime power projection capabilities.

The IAC-II, expected to displace 45,000 tonnes, will incorporate advancements and technologies beyond those of the INS Vikrant, further enhancing India's carrier capabilities. The decision to pursue a repeat of the Vikrant-like carrier underscores the Navy's confidence in the design and operational effectiveness of indigenous carriers. Moreover, the involvement of Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in the construction of the IAC-II reaffirms India's commitment to domestic shipbuilding capabilities and indigenous defense production.

Significance of Naval Presence in the IOR

India's pursuit of a strong naval presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is driven by strategic imperatives and geopolitical considerations. As the largest resident naval power in the region, India plays a pivotal role in maintaining maritime security and stability. The presence of aircraft carriers, such as the INS Vikrant, enhances India's capacity for power projection and rapid response to emerging threats and contingencies.

A robust naval presence in the IOR enables India to safeguard its maritime interests, including trade routes, energy security, and exclusive economic zones. Moreover, it allows India to counter regional security challenges, such as piracy, illegal fishing, and maritime terrorism. Additionally, India's naval capabilities serve as a deterrent against potential adversaries, ensuring the protection of vital national interests in the maritime domain.

Furthermore, India's naval presence in the IOR fosters strategic partnerships and collaborations with like-minded nations, enhancing regional security cooperation and interoperability. By maintaining a strong and visible naval presence, India reinforces its role as a responsible maritime stakeholder and contributes to the maintenance of a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

Conclusion

The success of the INS Vikrant, the development of DMR-249 steel, and India's pursuit of a third aircraft carrier underscore the country's commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities and asserting its strategic influence in the Indian Ocean Region. Through indigenous innovation, strategic planning, and collaborative partnerships, India seeks to maintain maritime security, safeguard national interests, and contribute to regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Source- The Hindu