04.08.2011
Construction of the first made-in-India aircraft carrier INS Vikrant is in progress at Cochin shipyard. All basic works are to be completed by Dec 2011, and the ship will be launched, said Indian defense minister A.K. Antony on Aug 3.
According to the minister, 75% of shipbuilding works are completed at the moment. India is able to build hi-tech warships all by itself in order to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, Antony added. Indian Navy will operate two aircraft carriers to maintain military balance in the Indian Ocean.
Speaking of INS
Vikramaditya being modernized in Russia, the minister said all works are on schedule. After signing supplementary agreement in March 2010 Russia committed itself to increase labor power and materials needed for the carrier's completion. Most onboard systems and equipment have been already mounted and installed. INS
Vikramaditya is expected to join Indian Navy in Dec 2012.
