India, a major player in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), is bolstering its naval capabilities with plans for a third aircraft carrier. The pursuit of a third carrier, according to Naval News, is part of India’s broader vision to secure its maritime borders. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) claims that a 55,000-ton version of the INS Vikrant design could be realized within five years, enhancing India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean.

Despite the challenges similar to those faced by the long-delayed INS Vikrant, the importance of a third carrier remains undisputed.

Continuous security necessitates three carriers, allowing two to be deployed while one undergoes maintenance and refit. The Indian Navy operates on a carrier-centric sea control concept, and in the context of a two-front conflict, carriers are pivotal in implementing both sea control and denial strategies.

This strategic endeavor is further emphasized by the Indian Navy’s current focus on acquiring additional P-8I Poseidon long-range maritime patrol aircraft and developing medium-range MPAs based on the Airbus C-295.

The Precision Approach Radar, essential for carrier operations, is also slated for local development due to an impending import ban in 2031.

The potential for debate on cost versus operational efficiency is highlighted by Sarabjeet Parmar of the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, who notes that previous expansion plans were segmented due to funding limitations. Despite this, the evolving security landscape necessitates a strong and well-rounded military, he argues.

Aircraft carriers also provide land attack capability, power projection, and blockade enforcement, which could be critical in a conflict with Pakistan, as detailed by Sanjay Sachdeva in the Indian Naval War College Journal.

However, challenges such as Pakistan’s geographic advantage and its ability to attack carriers using near-undetectable submarines and shore-based missiles underscore the nuanced nature of such maritime strategies.

India’s ambition to become self-sufficient in repairing the MiG-29K landing gear, self-protection jammer, oxygen generation system, and Optical Locator Station is a significant step toward self-reliance and an indicator of its commitment to indigenization.

The Indian Navy’s approach to establishing control over the IOR, as described by Yang Zhen, relies on three concentric “fences” with carriers playing a crucial role in the sea denial strategy. This reflects India’s strategic posturing and the imperative for enhanced capabilities to secure its interests in the region.

INS Vikrant’s successful integration into the Indian Navy, as showcased in the “twin carrier operations” observed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, reveals India’s growing prowess in carrier operations, a capability shared by few nations.

The significance of Vikrant, an indigenously designed and constructed carrier, is profound. It not only represents a technological achievement but also boosts the domestic shipbuilding industry and MSMEs.

The INS Vikrant is an engineering marvel, equipped to operate a varied air wing, including MiG-29K fighter jets and helicopters. Its STOBAR system, advanced galleys, and dedicated spaces for women officers and sailors demonstrate the thoughtful and modern design of the carrier.

The Indian Navy’s trajectory, as noted by Admiral R. Hari Kumar, includes plans for a second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC-II), emphasizing the essential role of carriers in India’s naval strategy. The IAC-II is expected to incorporate modifications and new technologies, building on Vikrant’s design while managing size and cost considerations.

With carrier aviation playing a pivotal role in modern naval warfare, the case for India’s third aircraft carrier is compelling. It would serve not only as a symbol of naval strength but also as a practical asset in maintaining continuous operational readiness and projecting power. The strategic imperatives for India’s third carrier resonate with the need for a robust naval presence in the face of an increasingly complex and competitive maritime domain.

Relevant articles:
– Why India wants another aircraft carrier, Asia Times
– The significance of carrier aviation | Explained, thehindu.com
– Defence | India needs four, not three aircraft carriers, Deccan Herald
– INS Vishal: 9 Reasons Why India’s 3rd Aircraft Carrier Is An Absolute Must To Counter China, Safeguards IOR, EurAsian Times