The aircraft and the carrier

The decision on the choice of a second indigenous aircraft carrier, which the navy is pushing for, will be crucial in determining India's maritime future

Last week, when Cochin Shipyard Ltd handed over Indian Naval Ship (INS) Vikrant to the Indian Navy, the shipyard was left with a large empty berth where India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, or IAC-1, had been under construction. Now, demanding answers were two questions: First, is there going to be a second indigenous carrier? And, if yes, what would be the size and specifications of IAC-2? The navy’s answers to those questions will determine India’s naval power for decades to come.

In addressing these issues, the navy must remember two simple truths: First, an aircraft carrier exists to take its air