• UGI USER
  • Jun 20, 2023
  • 27 Likes
  • 1 Comments

INS Vikramaditya: Operationalised

News: After a laborious overhaul that lasted about two and a half years, INS Vikramaditya was recently put into service.

A modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier named INS Vikramaditya joined the Indian Navy in 2013 and is already operational.

It has been given a new name in commemoration of the fabled Indian ruler Vikramaditya.

Prior to being decommissioned in 1996, the carrier served in the Soviet Navy and then the Russian Navy (as Admiral Gorshkov).

India later paid $2.33 billion to purchase it.

2013 saw its commissioning following renovation.

It measures around 284 metres in total length and 60 metres at its widest point.

There are 22 decks in all on the ship. More than 1,600 people, including crew, can travel aboard it.

It is capable of reaching a top speed of more than 30 knots and a top range of 7,000 nautical miles.

It can stay at sea for up to 45 days.

It is run on eight steam boilers of the newest generation.

More than 30 aircraft, including a variety of MiG 29K/Sea Harrier, Kamov 31, Kamov 28, Sea King, ALH-Dhruv, and Chetak helicopters, can be transported on board the ship.

The aircraft carrier is capable of carrying a variety of armaments, including guided bombs, rockets, anti-ship missiles, and air-to-air missiles with a range beyond optical range.

Modern launch and recovery systems, as well as tools to facilitate the smooth and effective operation of ship-borne aircraft, are included in the ship’s equipment.