Indian Navy's Strategic Operations with INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant off West Coast in March

Defense News ,India :-  Admiral R Hari Kumar announced on Sunday that the Indian Navy is set to undertake significant operations involving both of its aircraft carriers along the west coast in the next ten days.

In an exclusive interview with ANI, Admiral Hari Kumar revealed that both aircraft carriers, namely the INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant, would be part of the upcoming 'Exercise Milan' in Vishakhapatnam. However, the actual twin carrier operations are scheduled to take place after a ten-day period.

"Both carriers will participate in Exercise Milan. Nevertheless, the operationalization, integration into the fleet, and active fleet participation will commence in ten days," stated the Navy chief.

Upon the completion of Exercise Milan, he explained, "The carriers and escort ships will head to the western seaboard, where integration will take place."

Highlighting the heightened operational tempo in the western seaboard, Admiral Hari Kumar emphasized, "Currently, 10 of our ships are deployed for anti-drone measures, and an additional 3-4 ships are engaged in anti-piracy operations, marking an unprecedented level of activity."

Addressing the positioning of INS Vikrant, the Navy chief clarified that it would be stationed on the east coast after the necessary infrastructure is established.

Regarding the approval of C295 aircraft-based surveillance planes, Admiral Hari Kumar informed, "The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) granted approval yesterday. The Navy will receive nine aircraft, while six will be allocated to the Coast Guard, making a total of 15 aircraft."

He added that the C295 aircraft would now be manufactured in India, aligning with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative for a self-reliant India. "The key development is the collaborative effort between DRDO and Tata Advanced Systems Limited in developing the sensor suite and information management system. The delivery of the first aircraft is expected in 4-5 years, given the developmental nature of the project," concluded the Navy chief.