IAC Vikrant is the most complex warship ever to be built in the country

With the fourth phase of Sea Trials for Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) Vikrant having been completed, the stage is set for its commissioning, most likely on August 15, to mark 75 years of India's Independence.

According to information shared by the Ministry of Defence, integrated trials of a majority of equipment and systems onboard including some of the Aviation Facilities Complex equipment were undertaken during the latest phase of Sea Trials which ended on Sunday.

"The ship’s delivery is being targeted in end Jul 22, followed by commissioning of the ship in Aug 22 to commemorate ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’," the ministry said.

IAC Vikrant had its maiden sea trials in August 2021. The second sea trial was held for 10 days in October-November last year.

On January 9 this year, IAC Vikrant set sail for the third in the series of progressive sea trials to undertake complex manoeuvres.

During these three phases of Sea Trials, endurance testing of propulsion machinery, electrical & electronic suites, deck machinery, lifesaving appliances, ship’s Navigation and Communication systems was undertaken, the defence ministry said.

IAC Vikrant is the most complex warship ever to be built in the country. As much as 76% of the equipment used is indigenously sourced.

It has the ability to operate:
* MiG-29K fighter aircraft
* Kamov-31 Air Early Warning Helicopters
* The MH-60R multi-role helicopter
* Indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH)

With an endurance of over 7,500 nautical miles, Vikrant can travel at a peak speed of about 28 knots and a cruising speed of 18 knots. The IAC is 262 meters long, 62 meters wide, and 59 meters tall.