Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jan 22: Bollywood actor Sunny Deol, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Border 2, recently visited India’s indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, describing the experience as deeply moving and inspiring.
The actor shared glimpses from his visit on Instagram on Thursday, posting a series of photographs taken aboard the warship. The images featured Deol alongside members of the Border 2 team, including music composer Anu Malik, singer Sonu Nigam, and the film’s producers.
Reflecting on the visit, Deol wrote an emotional note, saying that some places leave a lasting impact beyond their physical presence. He described INS Vikrant as a symbol of pride, strength, and courage, and paid tribute to the Indian Navy and armed forces for their constant dedication to safeguarding the nation. He concluded his message with a patriotic salute and a “Jai Hind.”
INS Vikrant holds special significance as India’s first indigenously constructed aircraft carrier and a landmark achievement in the country’s defence and shipbuilding capabilities. Commissioned into the Indian Navy on September 2, 2022, the vessel was built by Cochin Shipyard Limited under the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier programme. It is named after India’s original aircraft carrier, commissioned in 1961, and reflects a major advancement in scale, design, and self-reliance.
The carrier displaces approximately 45,000 tonnes, stretches about 262 metres in length, and is capable of operating nearly 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighter jets and a range of helicopters. It operates on a STOBAR system, featuring a ski-jump for take-off and arrestor wires for recovery, and is powered by four gas turbines that allow it to reach speeds of over 28 knots.
With more than 75 per cent of its components sourced domestically, including steel, propulsion systems, aviation infrastructure, and combat management systems, INS Vikrant stands as a strong symbol of India’s push for defence indigenisation. Equipped with advanced sensors, modern command-and-control systems, and layered air defence, the carrier significantly boosts India’s blue-water navy capabilities and strengthens maritime security across the Indian Ocean region.