Bengaluru: The largest floating airfield of Indian Navy, the INS Vikramaditya docked at its home base in Karwar amidst high security and secrecy. The docking was done post sunset and the approach of the vessel was kept hidden till the last minute.
The INS Vikramaditya, which will carry the floating squadron of MIG 29K on it, is the refurbished version of Russian warship Admiral Gorshkov. The 45,000 tonne weighing vessel was escorted by another aircraft carrier of Indian Navy - INS Virat - along with the Battle Carrier Group which included Destroyers and Frigates.
The arrival of INS Vikramaditya is being considered as ‘game-changer’ for the Indian Navy and expected to enhance the maritime security in the Indian ocean.
The enhancing of maritime security became a dire need for India post 26/11 and with the arrival of INS Vikramaditya, the Indian Navy has entered a elite club of few forces in the world to have such a large aircraft carrier.
“The largest warship in our inventory has reached Karwar. The Sea Bird base has been prepared for docking of this large vessel. Now that the vessel is docked, integration with other Naval vessels and training for pilots in deck landing will begin. It will take another year for the warship to become fully operational. The ship will carry about 30 aircrafts on board comprising an assortment of MiG 29K, Kamov 31, Kamov 28, Sea King, ALH-Dhruv and Chetak helicopters," said an official from the Indian Navy.
