India's Mighty Fleet: A Complete Guide to All Commissioned Aircraft Carriers

The Indian Navy has a rich history of operating aircraft carriers that have played a crucial role in the country's defense strategy. Since its inception, the Indian Navy has commissioned several aircraft carriers that have served as a critical asset in protecting the country's maritime interests. In this article, we will discuss all the Indian Navy aircraft carriers ever commissioned.

INS Vikrant

INS Vikrant (1957-1997): INS Vikrant was the first aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy commissioned in 1957. It was a Majestic-class aircraft carrier that served the Indian Navy for four decades. During the 1971 Indo-Pak War, INS Vikrant played a vital role in the blockade of East Pakistan. In 1997, the ship was decommissioned and turned into a museum in Mumbai.

INS Viraat (1987-2017): INS Viraat was a Centaur-class aircraft carrier commissioned in the Indian Navy in 1987. It served the Indian Navy for more than 30 years before being decommissioned in 2017. INS Viraat played a crucial role in several military operations, including Operation Jupiter in 1989 and Operation Vijay in 1999.

INS Viraat

INS Vikramaditya (2013- Present): INS Vikramaditya is a modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier commissioned in the Indian Navy in 2013. It is the largest and the most powerful aircraft carrier in the Indian Navy's fleet. INS Vikramaditya has a displacement of 45,000 tonnes and can carry up to 36 aircraft, including MiG-29K and Kamov-31 helicopters.

INS Vikramaditya

INS Vikrant (2022- Present): INS Vikrant is the first indigenous aircraft carrier commissioned in the Indian Navy in 2022. It is a modified Vikrant-class aircraft carrier and is capable of carrying up to 30 aircraft. INS Vikrant is the largest warship built in India and is a testament to the country's growing self-reliance in defense technology.
In conclusion, the Indian Navy has commissioned four aircraft carriers in its history, and each one has played a vital role in the country's defense strategy. INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya remain in active service and continue to serve the country with distinction. The Indian Navy's aircraft carriers are a symbol of the country's maritime prowess and its commitment to safeguarding its territorial waters. 

INS Vikrant

In conclusion, the Indian Navy has commissioned four aircraft carriers in its history, and each one has played a vital role in the country's defense strategy. INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya remain in active service and continue to serve the country with distinction. The Indian Navy's aircraft carriers are a symbol of the country's maritime prowess and its commitment to safeguarding its territorial waters.