INS Vikrant’s Legacy Strengthens as Captain Ashok Rao Takes Charge
In an impressive demonstration of naval tradition and pride, Commanding Officer Captain Ashok Rao, NM, assumed charge of INS Vikrant, India's trailblazing indigenously constructed aircraft carrier. The ceremonial handover of command took place on board the 45,000-tonne warship, with Commodore Birendra S Bains giving over the baton on the ship's large flight deck.
This historic moment is much more than a change of leadership—it demonstrates the Indian Navy's improving commitment to indigenous defence innovation and increased preparedness in the strategically important Indo-Pacific.
Leading from the Front: A Seasoned Commander
Captain Rao, a product of the 52nd course of the Naval Academy, takes over with a distinguished career and well-entrenched operational experience. His past command on board premier naval vessels such as INS Visakhapatnam, INS Kora, and INS Nishank, and his diplomatic experience as Defence Adviser in Colombo, makes him ready to navigate INS Vikrant with strategic acumen. His command is likely to enhance the carrier's ability to safeguard India's maritime frontiers.
A Ceremony Marking Naval Legacy
True to naval tradition, the handover had a ceremonial guard of honour, traditional parade, and formal salute exchange—against the commanding background of INS Vikrant's flight deck. The ceremony was more than symbolic—it marked India's increasing maritime ambitions and the Navy's transformation into a modern, blue-water force.
Indigenous Engineering Meets Tactical Excellence
INS Vikrant has been constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited and proves to be a symbol of India's advancements in defence production. Measuring 262 meters in length and 62 meters in width, the carrier was commissioned in 2013 and can accommodate as many as 36 aircraft, thus proving to be an effective naval weapon.
The air wing consists of MiG-29K fighter aircraft, and multi-role helicopters like the Dhruv MK-III, MH-60R Seahawk, and Kamov Ka-31. The firepower is to be boosted by integrating 26 Rafale M F4 aircraft, approved in 2023, raising the ship's strike power considerably.
Built for Operational Edge
INS Vikrant is powered by a STOBAR (Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) system, augmented by two well-placed aircraft elevators. This enables faster generation of sorties and confers a tactical edge compared to the INS Vikramaditya, which boasts a single, central elevator.
With flight operations managed from the FLYCO (Flight Control Position)—a 10-meter-high control tower—deck coordination and situational awareness are maximized. Command decisions are implemented from the bridge, with uncompromising oversight over all onboard activities.
Honouring the Name, Embodying the Vision
Taking forward the legacy of the first INS Vikrant, which proudly served the country from 1961 to 1997, the new carrier is not just a tribute—it's a symbol of a self-reliant India. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and indigenous ingenuity, it still remains at the forefront of securing India's maritime interests.
Captain Rao's appointment indicates the Navy's growing emphasis on strategic autonomy and modernisation. His command on board INS Vikrant paves the way for a robust naval posture and a future where India's presence along key sea lanes is assured and unshakeable.
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