India Sets Sights on 5-6 More Aircraft Carriers to Challenge China's Naval Hegemony

In a significant development, India's naval aspirations appear to be expanding beyond the initially planned three-carrier fleet. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's recent declaration, "We will not stop at that (three carriers). We will make five, six more," has ignited speculation about a much larger and more ambitious carrier program.

The Indian Navy is currently awaiting Project sanction for the development of its third aircraft carrier. This carrier, modeled after the indigenously built INS Vikrant, is expected to incorporate technological advancements, strengthening India's maritime capabilities.

However, the Navy's ambitions extend further. A larger carrier, potentially displacing 65,000 tons, is being envisioned. This larger platform could accommodate cutting-edge technologies like Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS) and carry a more substantial complement of fighter jets, significantly enhancing its combat potential.

The driving force behind India's expanding carrier ambitions seems to be China's rapid naval expansion. China's plans to operate a fleet of 5-6 aircraft carriers, with the possibility of one battle group deployed in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), have prompted India to reassess its strategic needs.

China's recent launch of the Fujian, an 80,000-ton aircraft carrier, and its plans for similar vessels have further fueled India's determination to bolster its naval capabilities.

India now faces a crucial strategic choice: whether to prioritize a larger carrier force with fewer but more capable vessels, or a larger number of smaller carriers. This decision will hinge on careful consideration of various factors, including strategic needs, technological advancements, and budgetary constraints.

 

[Crusader 2024]

Best solution I think for the Indian Navy. Is to just build two more Vikrant Class Carriers but with Catapults. (EMALS?) Then when the first of the class comes in for her mid-life refit. Just replace the ski-jump with a catapult too! This would give India three identical carriers. She could add one or two more if needed...The Vikrant is a good carrier and about the size of the French Charles de Gaulle. Honestly, size isn't everything....of course she needs a good Air Wing. Something better than what the Chinese have...(J-15 & J-35)