GS PAPER III: Security challenges and their management in border areas - linkages of organized crime with terrorism.

Context: Raksha Mantri reviewed the progress of construction of first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) built by M/s Cochin Shipyard Ltd.

INS Vikrant

• The IAC would be commissioned as INS Vikrant in the first half of 2022, which would be the most potent sea-based asset.
• It is expected to have a top speed of 30 knots (approximately 55 kmph) and is propelled by four gas turbines.
• Its endurance is 7,500 nautical miles at 18 knots (32 kmph) speed. The vessel can carry up to 1,500 personnel and has 2,300 compartments.
• The ship shall operate MiG-29K fighter aircraft, Kamov-31 Air Early Warning Helicopters, the soon to be inducted MH-60R multi-role helicopter and the indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopters.
• With an overall length of 263 metre and a breadth of 63 metre, it is the largest vessel made in India and carries a price tag of about ₹20,000 crore.
• The towering vessel has a total of 15 decks and a displacement of 40,000 tonnes.
• It would offer an incomparable military instrument with its ability to project Air Power over long distances, including Air Interdiction, Anti-Surface Warfare, offensive and defensive Counter-Air, Airborne Anti-Submarine Warfare and Airborne Early Warning.
• IAS is a shining example of ‘AatmaNirbhar Bharat’ as it has nearly 75 per cent indigenous content - from design to steel used in construction to key weapons and sensors.
• IAS will add formidable capabilities in the defence of the country and help secure India's interests in maritime domain.
• IAC and Project Seabird at Karwar, which will be the Asia’s largest Naval Base, are examples of India’s unwavering focus.
• It will help to realize the vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and the wider goal of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific to ensure peace and stability in the region.

‘Project Seabird’

• It is the largest naval infrastructure project for India.
• It involves creation of a naval base at Karwar on the west coast of India.
• Upon completion, this $3 billion program and effort will provide the Indian Navy with its largest naval base on the west coast and also the largest naval base east of the Suez Canal.
• The new and expanded naval complex will be able to support several major warships and submarines and yard crafts.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1730269

Download PDF