In a momentous development, the Navy has put forward a substantial proposal to the Ministry of Defence, requesting approval for the production and acquisition of a second indigenous aircraft carrier. This proposal is in alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative within the defence sector. The Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) situated in Kochi is primed to take on the construction of this second aircraft carrier, as revealed by top government officials in discussions with IndiaToday.
Sources suggest that the Navy intends to propose the project to the Cochin Shipyard Limited. The Ministry of Defence is scheduled to convene shortly to assess and endorse the Navy's proposal.
On September 2, 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned the nation's inaugural indigenous aircraft carrier, named Indian Naval Ship (INS) Vikrant, at the Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).
"Vikrant is not merely a warship. It stands as a testament to India's hard work, talent, influence, and commitment in the 21st century. When goals are distant, journeys are lengthy, and the challenges in the vast ocean seem endless, India's response is Vikrant," stated PM Modi during the ceremony.
PM Modi emphasized that INS Vikrant serves as evidence of India's inherent potential, resources, and expertise. Notably, even the steel used in its construction is of domestic origin, developed by DRDO scientists and produced by Indian companies.
The Prime Minister drew attention to the colossal proportions of the carrier, likening it to a floating city.
The Navy reached a momentous milestone by operationalizing the indigenous aircraft carrier and conducting successful landings of a light combat aircraft (Navy) and MiG-29K on INS Vikrant in the Arabian Sea. The Navy has been actively working towards maintaining a three-carrier force, ensuring the capacity to deploy one carrier on each coast simultaneously, while one is undergoing refit.
The construction of IAC-2 is anticipated to generate substantial employment opportunities in the vicinity of Kochi, where the shipyard will be situated.
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