The Hon’ble President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu witnessed a magnificent showcase of the Navy’s Blue Water prowess aboard India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. The event signifies the strength and self-reliance of the Indian Navy and reaffirms its capabilities in safeguarding national maritime interests.
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi welcomed the Hon’ble President at INS Hansa, the naval air station located in Goa amidst a ceremonial welcome, with a Ceremonial Guard of Honor, consisting of 150 naval personnel. From there, Smt. Murmu ventured on board INS Vikrant, off the coast of Goa, to witness complex naval operations.
Highlights of the President’s Maiden Voyage
This is the first time Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu set sail aboard the aircraft carrier. INS Vikrant is a testament to India’s advanced maritime defense capabilities and signifies strategic operation readiness.
The showcase encompassed a comprehensive range of “Multi-domain Naval Operations”
- Surface Warfare Operations: Presented the formidable prowess of surface ships, such as frigates, destroyers, and corvettes, thus highlighting precise naval gunfire and advanced missile systems.
- Submarine Exercises: Stimulating submarine maneuvers were illustrated to underscore the stealth and strength of the Indian Navy.
- Air Power Demonstration: Deck-based aircraft and helicopters performed complex maneuvers, including take-offs and landings, showcasing the versatility of aerial superiority of the Navy.
- Flypast by Naval Aircraft: In conclusion, a flypast by various types of naval aircraft was held to symbolize the Navy’s aerial reach and rapid response capacity.
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INS Vikrant: A Bastion of India’s Indigenous Defense
INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC), is a testament to the country’s naval superiority and capacity of its defense manufacturing. It was developed under the banner of the Make in India initiative. Weighing over 40,000 tons, this multirole vessel is capable of undertaking a wide array of missions, from strategic deterrence, power projection, and humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HARD) operations.
Strategic Importance of INS Vikrant
As an indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant holds significant strategic value for India’s defense posture and power projection, especially in the “Indian Ocean Region (IOR).” The IAC allows the Navy operational flexibility, even in this geopolitical landscape that is fraught with complexities. Moreover, it enables the country to respond swiftly to any evolving threat. By relying on the diverse aircraft platforms, INS Vikrant also enjoys a greater reach and is able to contribute greatly to regional stability.
India Further Advances Its Blue Water Naval Capabilities
The recent naval operations and maritime exercise, and the involvement of INS Vikrant represent India’s significant step towards advancing its Blue Water naval capabilities. India has a vision to become a Blue Water navy and aims to project power across open oceans, defend its shores, and maintain a formidable maritime presence. This already aligns with the SAGAR initiative and furthers the nation’s aspirations to safeguard its economic interests in the global maritime commons. The Indian Navy also seeks to contribute meaningfully to the multinational maritime security while ensuring the safety of international sea routes.
The attendance of the Hon’ble President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu serves to send a message to both the country and the world that the nation’s defense aspirations stand strong, supported by indigenous development and manufacturing, while driven by a vision for regional stability and peace.
