Legacy of courage: INS Vikrant showcases India’s naval might at IFR, MILAN-2026

Visakhapatnam: Aircraft carrier INS Vikrant was the star attraction during the International Fleet Review (IFR-2026) and multinational exercise MILAN-2026, which commenced off Vizag coast on Thursday. The length of the carrier is around 262.5 meters, which is equal to two cricket stadiums end to end. The ship was commissioned on Sep 2, 2022, marking a major milestone in the country's naval and defence manufacturing capabilities. Designed by Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, it is the largest warship ever constructed in India and features about 75 percent indigenous content.HistoryINS Vikrant takes its name from India's first aircraft carrier, which was decommissioned in 1997. The erstwhile INS Vikrant played a crucial role in the 1961 Goa Liberation operation and the 1971 Indo-Pak war, earning a lasting place of pride in India's naval history. Its successor, India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, carries forward this legacy and represents a significant milestone in the country's naval self-reliance and shipbuilding capability. The ship generates enough electricity to power nearly 5,000 households, with internal wiring long enough to stretch from Kochi to Kashi. Vikrant, which means ‘courageous', played a pivotal role by leading the Carrier Battle Group during Operation Sindoor, which did now allow Pakistani warships to come out of the harbour.Floating FortressINS Vikrant contains 2,275 compartmentsAircraft carrier spans around 2,500 km, which is five times the distance between Bengaluru and KarwarTo take a walk around the carrier, one has to cover around 12 kmShip can accommodate 1,600 to 1,800 personnel, including 300 officersIt is about 61.6 metres wide, displaces roughly 45,000 tonnes, and can reach speeds of up to 28 knots, powered by four gas turbinesIt can carry around 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighters and multiple helicoptersIt operates on the short take-off but arrested recovery (STOBAR) system, which allows aircraft to take off using a ski-jump and land with the help of arrester wiresThe motto of the ship is ‘Jayema Sam Yudhi Sprdhah', which means "I defeat those who fight against me"