Daily Current Affairs : 25-September-2023
In recent news, the Defence Procurement Board (DPB) has deliberated upon the Indian Navy’s proposal to acquire a second aircraft carrier akin to the INS Vikrant. This project, estimated at a staggering ₹40,000 crore, entails not only replicating the design of India’s first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC), the INS Vikrant but also enhancing it. Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL) will once again be at the helm of its construction.
India’s Aircraft Carriers: A Historical Perspective
INS Vikrant: A Symbol of Indigenous Excellence
The INS Vikrant stands as a testament to the Indian Navy’s prowess in ship design. Crafted by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and brought to life by the Cochin Shipyard Limited, this marvel of engineering boasts state-of-the-art automation features. It holds the distinction of being the largest ship ever built in India’s maritime history. Launched in 2013 and commissioned in 2022, the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier bears the name of its illustrious predecessor, India’s first Aircraft Carrier, which played a pivotal role in the 1971 war.
INS Viraat: A Historic Journey
Originally commissioned by the British Royal Navy as HMS Hermes in 1959, the INS Viraat became part of the Indian Navy in May 1987. This aircraft carrier made history with its involvement in ‘Operation Jupiter’ in 1989, contributing to peacekeeping efforts in Sri Lanka. It also played a crucial role in Operation Parakram, following the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament. During the 1999 Kargil War, the INS Viraat established a blockade against Pakistan, significantly contributing to Operation Vijay.
INS Vikramaditya: The Jewel of the Fleet
Russia’s refurbished Admiral Gorshkov was commissioned into the Indian Navy as INS Vikramaditya in 2013. This state-of-the-art ship boasts the capability to operate various high-performance aircraft, including MiG 29K fighters, KM 31 AEW helicopters, multi-role Seakings, and utility Chetaks.
Significance of Aircraft Carriers for India
Aircraft carriers hold immense strategic value for India’s maritime security:
- Formidable Military Capabilities: Aircraft carriers are equipped with powerful weaponry and carrier-borne aircraft, completely transforming naval warfare.
- Flexibility in Operations: These carriers provide the Indian Navy with unprecedented flexibility in conducting various operations.
- Versatile Functions: Aircraft carriers serve multiple functions, including surveillance, air defense, airborne early warning, protection of Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC), and anti-submarine warfare.
- Air Dominance and Sea Control: The carrier battle group, with its combat elements and firepower, establishes air dominance and efficient sea control. In a region with a long coastline and potential adversities on both sides, having aircraft carriers on both coasts is quintessential to meet operational requirements.
Important Points:
Importance of Second Aircraft Carrier:
- The Defence Procurement Board (DPB) discussed India’s proposal for a second aircraft carrier similar to the INS Vikrant.
- The project is estimated to cost around ₹40,000 crore and will involve modifications and enhancements to the INS Vikrant’s design.
- Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL) will be responsible for manufacturing the second aircraft carrier.
India’s Aircraft Carriers: A Historical Perspective:
- INS Vikrant, designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by CSL, is India’s first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC).
- INS Vikrant is known for its state-of-the-art automation features and is the largest ship ever built in India.
- INS Vikrant was commissioned in 2022 and is named after India’s first Aircraft Carrier, which played a crucial role in the 1971 war.
- INS Viraat, originally commissioned by the British Royal Navy, joined the Indian Navy in 1987 and played key roles in various operations.
- INS Vikramaditya, a refurbished Russian aircraft carrier, was commissioned in 2013 and is equipped to operate a range of high-performance aircraft.
Significance of Aircraft Carriers for India:
- Aircraft carriers are formidable with powerful weaponry and carrier-borne aircraft.
- They provide flexibility in operations and are essential for various naval missions.
- Their functions include surveillance, air defense, airborne early warning, protection of Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC), and anti-submarine warfare.
- Aircraft carriers, along with their combat elements, establish air dominance and sea control.
- India’s long coastline and potential adversities on both sides necessitate having aircraft carriers on both coasts for effective defense.
Why In News
The Defence Procurement Board (DPB) convened a high-level meeting to deliberate the Navy’s proposal for acquiring a second Vikrant-like aircraft carrier. During the discussions, key stakeholders debated the strategic significance of this acquisition and the potential impact on the country’s naval capabilities. Additionally, the DPB sought to assess the financial feasibility of such a procurement, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive evaluation before making any decisions.
MCQs about India’s Second Aircraft Carrier
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Which Indian organization is responsible for manufacturing the second aircraft carrier, similar to the INS Vikrant?
A. Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB)
B. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
C. Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL)
D. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
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What is the primary function of an aircraft carrier in naval operations?
A. Ground troop deployment
B. Submarine warfare
C. Air dominance and sea control
D. Satellite communication
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What is the significance of INS Viraat in Indian naval history?
A. It was the first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC).
B. It played a pivotal role in Operation Vijay during the 1999 Kargil War.
C. It was commissioned by the Indian Navy in 2022.
D. It primarily served as a submarine warfare vessel.
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