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INS Viraat (R22) was a legendary aircraft carrier that served in the Indian Navy. Its naval history is a testament to its long and illustrious career, spanning several decades. Here is an overview of the naval history of INS Viraat:
INS Viraat started its journey as HMS Hermes, a Centaur-class aircraft carrier, in the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom. It was commissioned in 1959 and served the British Navy for over two decades. In 1986, India acquired the ship from the UK and commissioned it into the Indian Navy as INS Viraat.
After joining the Indian Navy, INS Viraat became the flagship of the fleet and played a crucial role in enhancing the navy's capabilities. It served as a versatile and powerful platform for various operations and missions.
INS Viraat participated in numerous exercises and operations, both in national waters and international waters. It played a vital role in joint exercises with friendly navies, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. These exercises helped in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting maritime security.
INS Viraat was involved in various combat deployments during its service. It played a pivotal role in the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) operations in Sri Lanka in the late 1980s. The ship provided crucial air support and served as a strategic asset during the conflict.
Apart from combat deployments, INS Viraat also played a significant role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. It was involved in providing aid and support during natural disasters like the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2013 Cyclone Phailin in Odisha, India.
During its service with the Indian Navy, INS Viraat underwent several upgrades and modernization programs to enhance its capabilities and extend its operational life. These upgrades included improvements to its aviation facilities, sensors, and weapons systems, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness.
After serving the Indian Navy for nearly three decades, INS Viraat was decommissioned on March 6, 2017. It marked the end of an era for the Indian Navy, as INS Viraat held the distinction of being the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the world at the time of its decommissioning.
INS Viraat's legacy continues to inspire generations of naval personnel and maritime enthusiasts. The ship's remarkable service and its ability to adapt and evolve over the years made it a symbol of the Indian Navy's professionalism and commitment to maritime security.
INS Viraat's naval history is a testament to its distinguished service, from its origins as HMS Hermes to its role as a powerful aircraft carrier in the Indian Navy. Its contributions to combat operations, joint exercises, and humanitarian missions have left an indelible mark on the maritime history of India and the world.
Where aircraft were stored and maintained
The heart of any ship. Providing the propulsion, water, heat and more.
Photo's from various other internal areas of the ship
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