Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said that maiden sea sortie of Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, ‘Vikrant’ is a true testimony to Government’s unwavering commitment to Atmanirbharta in Defence. In a tweet, he said, realisation of this historic milestone, regardless of COVID, shows true dedication and commitment of all stakeholders. Mr Singh it is a proud moment for India.

Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has hailed the launching of sea trials of indigenous aircraft carrier ‘Vikrant’, India’s most complex warship to have been indigenously built by Cochin Shipyard for the Indian Navy. He said, designing and building an indigenous aircraft carrier is a huge achievement for the Nation. He said, this is a true reflection of the Make in India and Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiatives of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Minister congratulated Cochin Shipyard and Indian Navy for making the country proud.

Vikrant’s propulsion plants will be put to rigorous testing at the sea in addition to the trials of various navigation, communication and hull equipment. The commencement of sea trials of the IAC after trials of various equipment at the harbour, especially during these difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic is a landmark achievement for the country. Cochin Shipyard Limited is the largest public sector shipyard and the only shipyard under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The launching of the IAC from Cochin Shipyard’s building dock in Aug 2013 with the strong support of the Ministry had catapulted the nation into the elite League of Nations capable of designing and building an Aircraft Carrier.