‘It’s an honour & an exhilarating assignment’

IAC’s commanding officer Captain Vidhyadhar Harke tells Anantha Narayanan K why INS Vikrant is paramount to India’s security.
How does IAC boost the Navy’s capabilities?
Since Independence, the thought was of a Navy centred around an aircraft carrier, and it was important given our dependence on the blue economy. Control over the seas and safeguarding sea lines of trade and communication is paramount. A carrier is a force multiplier, be it in war or in peace. It can rapidly begin operations at any
given time. Within 24 hours, it can cover over 300 miles. With its escort ships and fighter jets, it is a Carrier Battle Group, which means we can bring to bear that kind of force which is mobile, potent and self-sustaining. That’sthe beauty of an aircraft carrier.
Compared to previous Indian carriers, what’s changed?
The most important aspect is indigenous development; 76% of the materials were developed indigenously. Secondly, as it was designed by the Directorate of Naval Design, we enjoyed the flexibility to meet all our needs. As the ship has two hangar lifts to transport aircraft to the deck and back, it aids quicker sorties than previous Indian carriers. We chose a modular design that ensures comfortable crew accommodation.
What are the challenges when Chinese presence in IOR is on the rise?
We don’t perceive threats or challenges by aiming at a particular country. The maritime environment is evolving and so are threats. We have to adapt and we intend to develop capabilities to resolve any threat from any quarter. Nobody can think of a misadventure witha strong country. The commissioning of IAC reaffirms India’s position as apowerful maritime nation.
How do you feel to be the first CO of INS Vikrant?
As per the Navy’s tradition, we believe a ship’s soul lives on even after it’s decommissioned. It is like the adage: old soldiers never die; they just fade away. The new Vikrant is a reincarnation of the old INS Vikrant (R11), which played key roles in several missions, including the 1971 Indo-Pak War. It is an exhilarating feeling to be the first CO of this vessel and it comes with great responsibility. I have to fulfil the task of commissioning and integrating the ship into the fleet. We would endeavour to ensure the standards and expectations.