IN PHOTOS: INS Vikrant's Naval Journey Since Its Commissioning In 1961

By: Aleesha Sam | March 04, 2024

The INS Vikrant was launched on September 22, 1945 as Hercules, then on March 04,1961 it was commissioned as Vikrant in its first avatar.

PIB/Canva

On March 5, 1961, the INS Vikrant embarked on its journey from Belfast, setting sail for Portsmouth and Portland

PIB/Canva

Soon after undergoing several months of sea trials, INS Vikrant departed for India on October 6, 1961 and arrived Bombay on November 3, 1961

PIB/Canva

INS Vikrant was the first ever carrier for an Asian country and remained so for a long time, weighing 19,500-tonnes

PIB/ Canva

INS Vikrant played a crucial role in the 1971 war with its aircrafts wiping out the enemy

PTI/Canva

The INS Vikrant also helped in preventing reinforcement of Pakistani forces from the sea, leading to the birth of Bangladesh

X/ Canva

In 1984, the INS Vikrant underwent a remarkable transformation, becoming a Vertical/Short Take Off and Landing (V/STOL) carrier, with the brand new, state-of-the-art aircraft Sea Harrier.

X/Canva

After an illustrious service spanning 36 years, the INS Vikrant was decommissioned from active duty on January 31, 1997

PTI/Canva