India’s Nuclear Aircraft Carrier Dream: A 15-Year Vision

Manoj Ambat
Sep 10
2 min read

Aircraft carriers are more than warships—they are symbols of national power and ambition. For India, a maritime nation dependent on sea trade routes, aircraft carriers have always played a decisive role. From INS Vikrant’s daring blockade of Pakistan in 1971, to the indigenous INS Vikrant (IAC-1) commissioned in 2022, India’s carrier journey reflects both history and aspiration. Today, the Indian Navy is looking toward its boldest project yet: nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.

The Legacy of INS Vikrant

Commissioned in 1961, the first INS Vikrant became legendary during the 1971 war, where it effectively blockaded East Pakistan and cut off Pakistani naval supply lines. It proved that carriers give India strategic leverage far beyond its shores.

The Evolution: Viraat and Vikramaditya

INS Viraat, commissioned in 1987, extended India’s carrier power with Sea Harriers for nearly 30 years. In 2013, INS Vikramaditya, purchased from Russia, gave India a modern platform carrying MiG-29K fighters, bridging the gap until indigenous carriers arrived.

Indigenous Leap: INS Vikrant (IAC-1)

India’s first home-built carrier, INS Vikrant (2022), marked a milestone in naval self-reliance. At 43,000 tons, it carries MiG-29Ks and will likely host the upcoming Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF).

The 15-Year Prospective Plan: Nuclear Horizons

The proposed INS Vishal (IAC-2) could be a 65,000+ ton nuclear-powered carrier, with CATOBAR/EMALS launch systems and endurance to rival global supercarriers. Nuclear propulsion would enable India to deploy advanced fighters, UAVs, and AWACS with global reach.

India vs China: The Carrier Race

China is rapidly expanding its fleet with Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian, pushing India to maintain its three-carrier doctrine. While China seeks numbers, India focuses on technology, doctrine, and alliances, ensuring dominance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Conclusion

India’s journey from the first Vikrant to the future Vishal is not just about steel and technology—it’s about maritime destiny. In the next 15 years, nuclear-powered carriers could make India a true blue-water navy, capable of projecting power from the Persian Gulf to the Pacific.

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