Carrier INS Vikrant on maiden overseas deployment

India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant is on its maiden overseas deployment to Sri Lanka.

The carrier has onboard fighter jets, the MiG 29K and helicopters. The INS Vikrant, along with indigenous stealth frigate INS Udaygiri, is representing the Indian Navy at the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2025 being hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy in Colombo from November 27 to 29.

At 47,000 tonnes, the INS Vikrant is the biggest warship to be made in India. It was commissioned in September 2022.

The IFR is part of the Sri Lanka Navy’s 75^th anniversary celebrations and features participation from naval ships, delegations and observers from several countries.

The carrier and both the ships and underscore India’s commitment to strengthening regional maritime cooperation. The maiden participation of INS Vikrant for an International Fleet Review highlights India’s continued engagement with partner navies in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and reflects India’s emphasis on promoting peace, stability and security through collaboration and interoperability.

During their stay in Colombo, the ships will participate in key IFR events including the ceremonial fleet review, city parade, community outreach activities, and professional naval interactions.

As part of public outreach initiatives, the ships were opened to visitors during IFR 2025. A number of school children and Sri Lankan authorities were shown the carrier.