INS Vikramaditya: Difference between revisions

{{Use Indian English|date=October 2022}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2022}}

| Ship image = [[File:Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, former Gorshkov.jpg|Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, former Gorshkov|300px|frameless|center]]

| Ship identification = *[[Pennant number]]: R33<ref>{{cite web|title=Aircraft Carrier: INS Vikramaditya|url=http://www.indiannavy.nic.in/naval-fleet/ships?page=0%2C1|publisher=Indian Navy|access-date=4 January 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141004145613/http://www.indiannavy.nic.in/naval-fleet/ships?page=0%2C1|archive-date=4 October 2022}}</ref>

| Ship motto = ''Strike Far, Strike Sure''<ref name=inty17n>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya motto is 'Strike Far, Strike Sure'|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ins-vikramaditya-motto--strike-far-strike-sure/1/325205.html|access-date=17 November 2013|newspaper=India Today|date=17 November 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131117100814/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ins-vikramaditya-motto--strike-far-strike-sure/1/325205.html|archive-date=17 November 2022}}</ref>

| Ship displacement = {{displacement|45,400|unknown|first=loaded}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Ships/Future/193-INS-Vikramaditya.html |title=NAVY – Project 1143 |publisher=Bharat-Rakshak.com |date=17 November 2008 |access-date=29 July 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120710061819/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Ships/Future/193-INS-Vikramaditya.html |archive-date=10 July 2012  }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20120608/DEFREG03/306080005/Indian-Carrier-Begins-Sea-Trials?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130616061848/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20120608/DEFREG03/306080005/Indian-Carrier-Begins-Sea-Trials?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE |url-status=dead |archive-date=16 June 2013 |title=Indian Carrier Begins Sea Trials &#124; Defense News |publisher=defensenews.com |access-date=29 July 2022}}</ref>

| Ship length = {{Convert|284|m|ft}} (overall)<ref>{{cite web|title=Navy's largest ship 'INS Vikramaditya' Commissioned|url=http://indiannavy.nic.in/press-release/navys-largest-ship-ins-vikramaditya-commissioned|publisher=Indian Navy|access-date=26 November 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131128052801/http://indiannavy.nic.in/press-release/navys-largest-ship-ins-vikramaditya-commissioned|archive-date=28 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=INS VIKRAMADITYA VR TOUR HD - YouTube|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msPnEnCqdH8&feature=youtu.be |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/msPnEnCqdH8 |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2020-12-12|website=www.youtube.com}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

| Ship beam = {{convert|61|m|ft}}<ref name=indrus>{{cite web|title=Vikramaditya to be handed to the Indian Navy on November 16|url=http://indrus.in/news/2013/10/24/vikramaditya_to_be_handed_to_the_indian_navy_on_november_16_30359.html|publisher=India & Russia Report|access-date=27 October 2022}}</ref>

| Ship propulsion = 8 turbo-pressurised boilers, 4 shafts, 4 geared steam turbines, generating {{convert|180000|hp|kW|0}}<ref name=indnavy1>{{cite web|title='Vikramaditya' to be Commissioned on 16 Nov 13|url=http://indiannavy.nic.in/news-events/about-ins-vikramaditya-newest-largest-ship-indian-navy|publisher=Indian Navy|access-date=16 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140920192909/http://indiannavy.nic.in/news-events/about-ins-vikramaditya-newest-largest-ship-indian-navy|archive-date=20 September 2022}}</ref><ref name=modpib14/>

*[[Barak 1]] ''ex-{{INS|Godavari|F20|6}}''<ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya to get its own missile shield soon|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/INS-Vikramaditya-to-get-its-own-missile-shield-soon/articleshow/46952999.cms|access-date=3 May 2015|newspaper=Times of India|date=17 April 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150420103339/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/INS-Vikramaditya-to-get-its-own-missile-shield-soon/articleshow/46952999.cms|archive-date=20 April 2022}}</ref>

*[[Barak 8 (missile)|Barak 8]] (LRSAM)in 48 VLS cells<ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya won't have air defence system for now|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/ins-vikramaditya-wont-have-air-defence-system-for-now/1150500/|access-date=26 November 2013|newspaper=Indian Express|date=3 August 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213093734/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/ins-vikramaditya-wont-have-air-defence-system-for-now/1150500|archive-date=13 December 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya will serve Navy for 30 years|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-will-serve-navy-for-30-years/article4996525.ece|access-date=26 November 2013|newspaper=The Hindu|date=7 August 2013|location=Chennai, India|first=S.|last=Anandan|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131127223353/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-will-serve-navy-for-30-years/article4996525.ece|archive-date=27 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Misses, waits & progress in naval missiles|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/misses-waits-progress-in-naval-missiles-113080101197_1.html|access-date=26 November 2013|newspaper=Business Standard|date=2 August 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202222046/http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/misses-waits-progress-in-naval-missiles-113080101197_1.html|archive-date=2 December 2022}}</ref>

| Ship aircraft = *Maximum of 36 aircraft including<ref name=modpib14>{{cite news|title=Prime Minister Spends A Day Onboard INS Vikramaditya|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=105645|access-date=14 June 2014|agency=MOD|publisher=PIB|date=14 June 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714180351/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=105645|archive-date=14 July 2022}}</ref>

**26 × [[Mikoyan MiG-29K]] multi-role fighters<ref name="DefenseIndustryDaily">{{cite web|title=INS Vikrant: India's New Carrier-Gorshkov-Vikramaditya: Aerial Complement|url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/ins-vikramaditya-may-hit-delay-cost-increases-03283/|date=10 December 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125170657/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/ins-vikramaditya-may-hit-delay-cost-increases-03283/|archive-date=25 January 2022}}</ref>

Originally built as [[Soviet aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov|''Baku'']] and commissioned in 1987, the carrier served with the [[Soviet Navy]] and later with the [[Russian Navy]] (as ''Admiral Gorshkov'') before being decommissioned in 1996.{{sfn|Bharat Verma|2011|pp=45–46}}{{sfn|Terry Brien|2012|p=1145}}<ref name="Know INS Vikramaditya">{{cite news|url=https://www.theindianhawk.com/2020/06/INS-vikramaditya-everything-you-need-to-know-about-warship.html|title=INS Vikramaditya: Everything you Need to about warship|publisher=www.theindianhawk.com |access-date=22 June 2020 }} </ref> The carrier was invested by India on 20 January 2004 after years of negotiations at a final arms sales price of $2.35 billion.<ref name="thehindu1"/> The transformed ship completed her sea trials in July 2013<ref name="seatrialhindu">{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-sea-trials-successful/article4963564.ece|title=INS Vikramaditya sea trials successful|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=28 July 2013|access-date=31 July 2013|location=Chennai, India|first=Vinay|last=Kumar|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130731181837/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-sea-trials-successful/article4963564.ece|archive-date=31 July 2022}}</ref> and first [[STOBAR]] aviation trials in September 2013.<ref name="airtrialhindu">{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/vikramaditya-likely-to-be-delivered-in-midnovember/article5138544.ece|title=Vikramaditya likely to be delivered in mid-November|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=17 September 2013|access-date=17 September 2013|location=Chennai, India|first=Vinay|last=Kumar|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921110814/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/vikramaditya-likely-to-be-delivered-in-midnovember/article5138544.ece|archive-date=21 September 2022}}</ref>

She was [[Ship commissioning|commissioned]] on 16 November 2013 at a ceremony held at [[Severodvinsk]], [[Russia]].<ref name=ibnlive>{{cite web|title=Aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya inducted into Indian Navy|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/aircraft-carrier-ins-vikramaditya-inducted-into-indian-navy/434490-3.html|publisher=IBN Live|access-date=16 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131118010905/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/aircraft-carrier-ins-vikramaditya-inducted-into-indian-navy/434490-3.html|archive-date=18 November 2022}}</ref> On 14 June 2014, the [[Prime Minister of India]], [[Narendra Damodar Modi]], formally inducted INS ''Vikramaditya'' into the Indian Navy and dedicated her to the nation.<ref>{{cite news|title=PM Modi inducts INS Vikramaditya into Navy, dedicates it to nation|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-on-board-india-s-largest-warship-ins-vikramaditya/article1-1229318.aspx|access-date=14 June 2014|work=Hindustan Times |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140614091659/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-on-board-india-s-largest-warship-ins-vikramaditya/article1-1229318.aspx|archive-date=14 June 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/prime-minister-narendra-modi-lands-on-indias-biggest-warship-ins-vikramaditya/|title=PM Narendra Modi dedicates largest warship INS Vikramaditya to the nation, pitches for self-reliance|date=14 June 2014|work=The Indian Express|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140614213622/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/prime-minister-narendra-modi-lands-on-indias-biggest-warship-ins-vikramaditya/|archive-date=14 June 2022}}</ref>

''Baku'' entered service in 1987, renamed ''Admiral Gorshkov'' in 1991, but was deactivated in 1996 because she was too expensive to operate on a post-Cold War budget. This attracted the attention of India, which was looking for a way to expand its carrier aviation capabilities.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htnavai/articles/20100603.aspx |title=Naval Air: Go For Gorshkov |publisher=Strategypage.com |date=3 June 2010 |access-date=7 March 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110616183146/http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htnavai/articles/20100603.aspx |archive-date=16 June 2011  }}</ref> On 20 January 2004, after years of negotiations, Russia and India signed a deal for the sale of the ship. The ship would be free, while India would pay US$800 million for the upgrade and refit of the vessel and an additional US$1 billion for the aircraft and weapons systems. The navy looked at equipping the carrier with the [[E-2 Hawkeye#Variants|E-2C Hawkeye]] but decided not to.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiadefence.com/Aero%202005.htm|title=WHAT'S HOT? ANALYSIS OF RECENT HAPPENINGS – Aero India 2005 – Naval Interests – An IDC Report|website=IndiaDefence.com|date=9 February 2005|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201002012/http://www.indiadefence.com/Aero%202005.htm |archive-date=1 February 2009 }}</ref> In 2009, Northrop Grumman offered the advanced [[Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye#E-2D Advanced Hawkeye|E-2D Hawkeye]] to the Indian Navy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?channel=aerospacedaily&id=news/INDIA090209.xml |title=Indian Navy Mulls Northrop Advanced Hawkeye |publisher=Aviationweek.com |date=2 September 2009 |access-date=7 March 2022}}</ref>

The statement from the Chief of Naval Staff at that time indicated that the final deal could be over US$2 billion. When asked about CAG's finding that the navy had not done its risk analysis before going in for the ship, he was quoted as saying, "I can ensure you that there is no such thing. There is no question, we have been looking at the ship since the late 90s."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ptinews.com/news/202829_Navy-chief-defends-price-paid-for-Admiral-Gorshkov|title=Site Under Construction|work=ptinews.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090802140224/http://www.ptinews.com/news/202829_Navy-chief-defends-price-paid-for-Admiral-Gorshkov|archive-date=2 August 2022}}</ref>

As completed, ''Vikramaditya'' has a larger full load displacement than when the ship was originally launched in 1982 as ''Baku''. 1,750 out of 2,500 compartments of the vessel were re-fabricated, and extensive re-cabling was done to support new radars and sensors. The elevators were upgraded, and two restraining stands were fitted, allowing combat aircraft to reach full power before making a ski jump-assisted short take-off. Three arresting gears were fitted on the aft of the angled deck, and navigation and carrier-landing aids were added to support fixed-wing "short take-off but arrested recovery" (STOBAR) operations.<ref name=indnavy1/><ref name="gs">{{cite web |author=John Pike |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/r-vikramaditya.htm |title=R Vikramaditya [ex-Gorshkov&#93; |website=GlobalSecurity.org |access-date=7 March 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101228050411/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/r-vikramaditya.htm |archive-date=28 December 2010  }}</ref><ref name=pib17n13>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya – Game changer|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/efeatures.aspx?relid=100649|access-date=16 June 2014|publisher=PIB|date=17 November 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131206062349/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/efeatures.aspx?relid=100649|archive-date=6 December 2022}}</ref>

The superstructure profile was designed to accommodate the fixed [[Passive electronically scanned array|phased array]] scanners of the Soviet Navy's Mars-Passat [[3D radar|3D]] air search radar system, along with extensive [[command and control]] facilities to conduct an aerial campaign. Extensive revamp of sensors was carried out, with long-range air-surveillance radars and advanced [[electronic warfare]] suites fitted, which enable the maintenance of a surveillance bubble of over 500&nbsp;km around the ship. An aft mast was installed to accommodate various communication antennae. These changes needed 2,300&nbsp;km of new cables and 3,000&nbsp;km of new pipes.<ref name=indnavy1/><ref name=pib17n13/><ref name=hin15n13>{{cite news|title=Navy to get refurbished Vikramaditya tomorrow|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navy-to-get-refurbished-vikramaditya-tomorrow/article5350931.ece|access-date=16 June 2014|work=The Hindu|date=15 November 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140428131444/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navy-to-get-refurbished-vikramaditya-tomorrow/article5350931.ece|archive-date=28 April 2022}}</ref>

The eight original boilers were replaced by new generation, high-pressure boilers, converted to take diesel fuel utilising LSHSD instead of [[furnace fuel oil]], each providing a steam capacity of 100 tonnes per hour.<ref name=inpressrel>{{cite news|title='Vikramaditya' to be Commissioned on 16 Nov 13|url=http://indiannavy.nic.in/press-release/vikramaditya-be-commissioned-16-nov-13|access-date=17 November 2013|newspaper=Indian Navy|date=16 November 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131120004906/http://indiannavy.nic.in/press-release/vikramaditya-be-commissioned-16-nov-13|archive-date=20 November 2022}}</ref> The new boilers are highly efficient and have high levels of automation. They power four propellers in a four-shaft configuration, producing a total thrust of {{convert|180000|hp|kW|0}} at the [[Horsepower#Shaft horsepower|shaft]], providing a top speed of over 30 knots. Six turbo alternators and six diesel alternators generate 18 MW of electricity to power various equipment. Modern oil-water separators, as well as a sewage treatment plant, were incorporated to meet international standards. Six new Finnish [[Wärtsilä]] 1.5 MW diesel generators, a Global Marine communications system, [[Sperry Corporation|Sperry]] Bridgemaster navigation radar, a new telephone exchange, new data link and an IFF Mk XI system were added. Residential services were improved with the addition of two [[reverse osmosis]] plants producing 400 tons of fresh water per day, as well as updated refrigeration and air conditioning. A new galley was installed with improved domestic services and accommodation for 10 female officers.<ref name="gs"/><ref name=pib17n13/><ref>{{cite news|title=Prime Minister's Day at Sea|url=http://indiannavy.nic.in/press-release/prime-ministers-day-sea|access-date=17 June 2014|publisher=Indian Navy|date=16 June 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140630073401/http://indiannavy.nic.in/press-release/prime-ministers-day-sea|archive-date=30 June 2022}}</ref>

When delivered, ''Vikramaditya'' had yet to be fitted with any onboard armament, leaving her dependent on her battle group for self-defence.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://defenceradar.com/2014/12/04/ins-vikramaditya-yet-to-be-fitted-with-close-in-weapon-system/ |title=INS Vikramaditya yet to be fitted with close-in weapon system |date=4 December 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205205701/http://defenceradar.com/2014/12/04/ins-vikramaditya-yet-to-be-fitted-with-close-in-weapon-system/ |archive-date=5 December 2014  }}</ref><ref name=tt16j14>{{cite news|title=Close-In Warfare System on INS Vikramaditya next year|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2014/20140616/main6.htm|access-date=16 June 2014|work=The Tribune|date=16 June 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140620231317/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2014/20140616/main6.htm|archive-date=20 June 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/ins-vikramaditya-wont-have-air-defence-system-for-now/1150500/|title=INS Vikramaditya won't have air defence system for now|work=indianexpress.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140426214656/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/ins-vikramaditya-wont-have-air-defence-system-for-now/1150500/|archive-date=26 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140311/DEFREG03/303110023/Indian-Navy-Open-Search-Carrier-Air-Defense-System |title=Indian Navy To Open Search for Carrier Air Defense System |last1=Raghuvanshi|first1=Vivek |date=11 March 2014 |website=www.defensenews.com |publisher=Gannett Government Media |access-date=12 March 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228215056/http://www.news18.com/news/india/navys-fighter-jet-makes-emergency-landing-at-mangaluru-1354567.html |archive-date=28 February 2017  }}</ref> This was rectified during the ship's short refit of April–June 2015, when she was fitted with four license-built [[AK-630]] [[Close-in weapon system|CIWS]] and a [[Barak 1]] SAM system stripped from the decommissioned {{INS|Godavari|F20|6}}. During the ship's first scheduled major refit in 2017, the Barak 1 system will be replaced with the newly developed [[Barak 8 (missile)|Barak 8]] long-range air-defence system (LR-SAM), which is currently being tested. It is launched from vertical launch cells and has an operational range of 0.5–100&nbsp;km.<ref name="The higherTelegraph">{{cite news|last=Dutta|first=Sujan|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1151128/jsp/nation/story_55591.jsp#.VoO8K0vraSE|title=Israel ship missile test for India

|work=[[The Telegraph (Calcutta)|The Telegraph]]|date=28 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104040421/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1151128/jsp/nation/story_55591.jsp|archive-date=4 November 2022}}</ref><ref name="The Times of India">{{cite web |last=Pandit |first=Rajat |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Gen-Next-missile-defence-shield-built-by-Israel-and-India-clears-first-hurdle/articleshow/49955127.cms |title=Gen Next missile defence shield built by Israel and India clears first hurdle |work=The Times of India |date=28 November 2015 |access-date=16 October 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180817105046/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com//india/Gen-Next-missile-defence-shield-built-by-Israel-and-India-clears-first-hurdle/articleshow/49955127.cms |archive-date=17 August 2018 }}</ref> The carrier will carry up to 48 missiles.<ref name=j7m14/><ref name=tt16j14/>

The official expected [[service life|life span]] of the ship is 40 years, and she is unlikely to require any major repair work for at least a decade.<ref name=hin15n13/><ref>{{cite news|last=Aroor|first=Shiv|title=INS Vikramaditya joins Indian Navy: Shiv Aroor on why India is relieved that the battleship is finally here|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ins-vikramaditya-india-relieved-indian-navy-russia-shiv-aroor/1/325188.html|access-date=17 November 2013|work=India Today|date=17 November 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131117095626/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ins-vikramaditya-india-relieved-indian-navy-russia-shiv-aroor/1/325188.html|archive-date=17 November 2022}}</ref> Over 70% of the vessel and her equipment is new, and the remainder has been refurbished.<ref name="gs"/> [[Sevmash|Sevmash Shipyard]], which upgraded the carrier, will provide warranty servicing, including maintenance for the next 20 years.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sevmash chosen for INS Vikramaditya post-warranty servicing|url=http://indrus.in/economics/2014/03/13/sevmash_chosen_for_ins_vikramaditya_post-warranty_servicing_33707.html|access-date=16 March 2014|newspaper=Russia & India Report|date=13 March 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228215056/http://www.news18.com/news/india/navys-fighter-jet-makes-emergency-landing-at-mangaluru-1354567.html|archive-date=28 February 2022}}</ref>

On 17 September 2012, malfunctions were detected during trials. According to an official report, seven out of eight steam boilers of the propulsion machinery were out of order. Due to this, the deadline to hand over this ship to the Indian Navy was postponed again until October 2013.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-09-17/india/33902040_1_ins-vikramaditya-sea-trials-handover |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130115123537/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-09-17/india/33902040_1_ins-vikramaditya-sea-trials-handover |url-status=dead |archive-date=15 January 2013 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=INS Vikramaditya trial malfunctions to delay handover to India |date=17 September 2012 }}</ref> Later investigation has determined that the cause of the engine failure was poor workmanship and supervision.<ref>[http://strategypage.com/htmw/htproc/20121014.aspx Russia Copes With The Vikramaditya Disaster] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019141934/http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htproc/20121014.aspx |date=19 October 2012 }} – Strategypage.com, 14 October 2012</ref> The ''Gorshkov'' and other ships of the 1143.4 class had a history of multiple boiler failures;<ref>{{cite news |url=http://en.rian.ru/military_news/20130201/179169083/Russia-Completes-Indian-Carrier-Engine-Repairs.html |title=Russia Completes Indian Carrier Engine Repairs |agency=RIA Novosti |date=1 February 2013 |access-date=26 April 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130204042454/http://en.rian.ru/military_news/20130201/179169083/Russia-Completes-Indian-Carrier-Engine-Repairs.html |archive-date=4 February 2013  }}</ref> however, Russian shipbuilders claimed that the problem was the low-grade Chinese-made fire bricks bought by the Indian Navy that were used in the boiler insulation instead of [[asbestos]].<ref>{{cite news|author=PTI|date=1 February 2013|title=Engine problems in INS Vikramaditya fixed, sea trial to start in June – Economic Times|work=[[The Economic Times]]|publisher=Articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/engine-problems-in-ins-vikramaditya-fixed-sea-trial-to-start-in-june/articleshow/18293935.cms|url-status=live|access-date=March 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016080958/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2013-02-01/news/36684517_1_nikolayev-south-sea-trials-admiral-gorshkov|archive-date=16 October 2022}}</ref>

On 3 July 2013, Igor Sevastyanov, deputy head of Russia's state arms exporter Rosoboronexport, announced that the warship had departed for sea trials with a mix of Russian and Indian crew.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://en.ria.ru/military_news/20130703/182032744/Indian-Carrier-Sails-From-Russia-for-Final-Sea-Trials.html | title=Indian Carrier Sails From Russia for Final Sea Trials | agency=[[RIA Novosti]] | date=3 July 2013 | access-date=7 July 2013 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130706182820/http://en.ria.ru/military_news/20130703/182032744/Indian-Carrier-Sails-From-Russia-for-Final-Sea-Trials.html | archive-date=6 July 2013 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> On 28 July 2013, it was reported that ''Vikramaditya'' had successfully completed her sea trials and was able to reach her maximum speed of 32 knots. She then proceeded to the [[White Sea]] for aviation trials,<ref name="seatrialhindu"/> carried out by Russia's [[Northern Fleet]] aviation and completed in September 2013.<ref name="airtrialhindu" /><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/russia-to-hand-over-ins-vikramaditya-to-india-in-november-113022200328_1.html|title=Russia to hand over INS Vikramaditya to India in November|author=Press Trust of India|date=22 February 2013|work=business-standard.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130622112606/http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/russia-to-hand-over-ins-vikramaditya-to-india-in-november-113022200328_1.html|archive-date=22 June 2022}}</ref> Aircraft and helicopters flew around and over the ship to check the performance of its radar, air defence, communication and control systems, and MiG specialists praised the ski-jump ramp.<ref name=ir31335/>

During sea trials, a [[Lockheed P-3 Orion]] patrol aircraft observed ''Vikramaditya''. While in international waters, it flew close to the ship to take photographs and dropped [[sonobuoys]] to record the ship's [[acoustic signature]]. The aircraft left the area when a Russian [[Mikoyan MiG-29|MiG-29]] fighter arrived. A Norwegian ship was also seen to observe ''Vikramaditya''.<ref name=Spy>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ins-vikramaditya-was-spied-upon-by-nato-aircraft-and-ship-last-year/1/325335.html|title=INS Vikramaditya was spied upon by NATO aircraft and ship last year but the matter was hushed up|work=intoday.in|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111174654/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ins-vikramaditya-was-spied-upon-by-nato-aircraft-and-ship-last-year/1/325335.html|archive-date=11 January 2022}}</ref>{{dubious|date=January 2022}}

After commissioning, the carrier began a continuous 26-day journey of 10,212 nautical miles to its [[homeport]] at {{INS|Kadamba}}, [[Karwar]], from [[Severodvinsk]] on 27 November 2013, with a short stopover in [[Lisbon]].<ref name=thehindu226>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya enters Indian Navy's area of operation|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-enters-indian-navys-area-of-operation/article5538226.ece|work=The Hindu|access-date=4 January 2014|location=Chennai, India|date=4 January 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140104205608/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-enters-indian-navys-area-of-operation/article5538226.ece|archive-date=4 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya completes transoceanic voyage, arrives in India|url=http://indrus.in/economics/2014/01/10/ins_vikramaditya_completes_transoceanic_voyage_arrives_in_india_32175.html|access-date=11 January 2014|newspaper=IndRus|date=10 January 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228215056/http://www.news18.com/news/india/navys-fighter-jet-makes-emergency-landing-at-mangaluru-1354567.html|archive-date=28 February 2022}}</ref> She was under the command of Commodore Suraj Berry, her first Indian captain.<ref name=ir31335>{{cite news|title=Commodore Suraj Berry's finest hour|url=http://indrus.in/economics/2013/12/04/commodore_suraj_berrys_finest_hour_31335.html|access-date=8 December 2013|newspaper=IndRus|date=4 December 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228215056/http://www.news18.com/news/india/navys-fighter-jet-makes-emergency-landing-at-mangaluru-1354567.html|archive-date=28 February 2022}}</ref> Apart from her Indian crew, she also carried 177 Russian specialists from Sevmash, who would remain on board for one year, as part of the 20-year post-warranty services contract with the shipyard. During the journey, she encountered a storm in the [[Barents Sea]], where she linked up with her escorts frigate {{INS|Trikand}} and fleet tanker {{INS|Deepak|A50|6}}.<ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya sets sail for India|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-sets-sail-for-india/article5394676.ece|access-date=8 December 2013|newspaper=The Hindu|date=27 November 2013|location=Chennai, India|first=S.|last=Anandan|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131208154615/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-sets-sail-for-india/article5394676.ece|archive-date=8 December 2022}}</ref> The group was escorted by the Royal Navy frigate {{HMS|Monmouth|F235|6}} while passing through the [[English Channel]]<ref>{{cite news|title=HMS Monmouth Helps Mammoth Aircraft Carrier Through Channel|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2013/December/16/131216-HMS-Monmouth-Indian|access-date=22 December 2013|newspaper=Royal Navy|date=16 December 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131221204625/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2013/December/16/131216-HMS-Monmouth-Indian|archive-date=21 December 2022}}</ref> and was joined by destroyer {{INS|Delhi|D61|6}} near [[Gibraltar]].<ref name=thehindu226/>

The flotilla sailed in the [[Mediterranean Sea]], passed through the [[Suez Canal]]<ref name=tiex15d>{{cite news|title=Navy set to get its largest aircraft carrier tomorrow|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/navy-set-to-get-its-largest-aircraft-carrier-tomorrow/1195147/0|access-date=8 December 2013|newspaper=The Indian Express|date=15 November 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131219150310/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/navy-set-to-get-its-largest-aircraft-carrier-tomorrow/1195147/0|archive-date=19 December 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya approaches Murmansk for refuelling|url=http://indrus.in/news/2013/12/03/ins_vikramaditya_approaches_murmansk_for_refuelling_31325.html|access-date=8 December 2013|newspaper=IndRus|date=3 December 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228215056/http://www.news18.com/news/india/navys-fighter-jet-makes-emergency-landing-at-mangaluru-1354567.html|archive-date=28 February 2022}}</ref> and entered the [[Arabian Sea]] near the [[Gulf of Aden]] on 1 January 2014. She was received nearly {{convert|1200|nmi|km}} away from Indian shores by a large flotilla of the [[Western Naval Command|Western fleet]].<ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya to Reach by Mid-January|url=http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.asp?get=new&id=2851|access-date=5 January 2014|newspaper=Defence News|date=5 January 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140106031530/http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.asp?get=new&id=2851|archive-date=6 January 2022}}</ref> It was composed of the aircraft carrier {{INS|Viraat}}, two {{sclass|Delhi|destroyer|1}}s, three {{sclass|Talwar|frigate|1}}s, the frigate {{INS|Godavari|F20|6}}, and a couple of offshore patrol vessels, including {{INS|Subhadra|P51|6}}.<ref name=thehindu226/> The event was significant as the Indian Navy operated two aircraft carriers simultaneously for the first time in 20 years.<ref>{{cite news|title=India operates two aircraft carriers after 20 years|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/140107/news-current-affairs/article/india-operates-two-aircraft-carriers-after-20-years|access-date=7 January 2014|newspaper=The Deccan Chronicle|date=7 January 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140624165008/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/140107/news-current-affairs/article/india-operates-two-aircraft-carriers-after-20-years|archive-date=24 June 2022}}</ref> After conducting basic sea exercises with the fleet,<ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya to sail to Mumbai & Vizag|url=http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.aspx?id=WbV96X08FCE=|access-date=16 January 2014|newspaper=SP Publications|date=16 January 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602105617/http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.aspx?id=WbV96X08FCE%3D|archive-date=2 June 2022}}</ref> ''Vikramaditya'' reached Karwar on 7 January 2014.<ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya reaches home base in Karwar|url=http://www.firstpost.com/india/ins-vikramaditya-reaches-home-base-in-karwar-1327671.html|access-date=7 January 2014|newspaper=First Post|date=7 January 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140107214048/http://www.firstpost.com/india/ins-vikramaditya-reaches-home-base-in-karwar-1327671.html|archive-date=7 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya reaches Karnataka port|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/ins-vikramaditya-reaches-karnataka-port/1216609/0|access-date=8 January 2014|newspaper=The Indian Express|date=8 January 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228215056/http://www.news18.com/news/india/navys-fighter-jet-makes-emergency-landing-at-mangaluru-1354567.html|archive-date=28 February 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya reaches Karwar|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/379190/ins-vikramaditya-reaches-karwar.html|access-date=8 January 2014|newspaper=Deccan Herald|date=8 January 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140109035158/http://www.deccanherald.com/content/379190/ins-vikramaditya-reaches-karwar.html|archive-date=9 January 2022}}</ref>

Navy pilots of [[INAS 303]] "Black Panthers" operating the MiG-29K practised carrier operations at the [[shore-based test facility]] (SBTF) in [[INS Hansa]], [[Dabolim]], [[Vasco da Gama, Goa|Vasco-da-Gama]]. The first aircraft piloted by an Indian Navy pilot landed on the carrier on 8 February 2014.<ref>{{cite news|title=First Indian MiG-29K Fighter Jet Lands on Vikramaditya|url=http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.aspx?id=hLEgIi9SGbI%3D|access-date=12 February 2014|newspaper=Defence News, RIA Novosti|date=8 February 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140208151722/http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.aspx?id=hLEgIi9SGbI=|archive-date=8 February 2022}}</ref> Since then, the pilots and air controllers have been certified to operate the MiG-29K fighters from the carrier deck, including night landings. The carrier's air wing will consist of 16 MiG-29Ks, including four KUB trainers, six airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) Kamov Ka-31 and Kamov Ka-28 anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopters.<ref name=j7m14>{{cite news|title=Indian Navy chief: Vikramaditya deployed with MiG-29s embarked|url=http://www.janes.com/article/37623/indian-navy-chief-vikramaditya-deployed-with-mig-29s-embarked|access-date=9 May 2014|newspaper=Jane's|date=7 May 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140512110934/http://www.janes.com/article/37623/indian-navy-chief-vikramaditya-deployed-with-mig-29s-embarked|archive-date=12 May 2022}}</ref>

In May 2014, the carrier was declared operationally deployed along with its embarked air group comprising MiG-29Ks and had taken part in a war game conducted by the [[Western Naval Command]].<ref>{{cite news|title=INS Vikramaditya operationally deployed: Navy chief|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-operationally-deployed-navy-chief/article5985569.ece|access-date=7 May 2014|newspaper=The Hindu|date=7 May 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508075722/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-vikramaditya-operationally-deployed-navy-chief/article5985569.ece|archive-date=8 May 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.navhindtimes.in/goa-news/naval-exercises-goa-coast-today|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140512225658/http://www.navhindtimes.in/goa-news/naval-exercises-goa-coast-today|url-status=dead|title=Naval exercises off Goa coast today|archive-date=12 May 2022}}</ref> On 14 June 2014, the [[Prime Minister of India]] dedicated the carrier to the country.<ref>{{cite news|title=PM Narendra Modi dedicates INS Vikramaditya to nation|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/news/PM-Narendra-Modi-dedicates-INS-Vikramaditya-to-nation/videoshow/36562915.cms|work=The Times of India|date=14 June 2014|access-date=13 June 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906071331/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/news/PM-Narendra-Modi-dedicates-INS-Vikramaditya-to-nation/videoshow/36562915.cms|archive-date=6 September 2022}}</ref>

On 8 December 2015, Indian Defence-Ministry sources stated that the INS ''Vikramaditya'' would receive its first major overhaul in September 2016 as part of the "Make in India" initiative. The state-owned Cochin Shipyards and the Pipavav shipyards will overhaul the carrier once she is in dry dock.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kulkarni|first=Pranav|title=''INS Vikramaditya set for first overhaul in September''|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/ins-vikramaditya-set-for-first-overhaul-in-september/|date=8 December 2015|work=IndianExpress|access-date=30 December 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160111053938/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/ins-vikramaditya-set-for-first-overhaul-in-september/|archive-date=11 January 2022}}</ref>

A [[State Bank of India]] ATM was opened onboard ''Vikramaditya'' on 21 January 2017, making her the first Indian Navy ship to have an ATM.<ref>{{cite web|title=India's Largest Bank Teams up with The Nation's Largest Warship|url=https://www.indiannavy.nic.in/content/indias-largest-bank-teams-nations-largest-warship|website=Indian Navy|access-date=26 February 2017|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170227062727/https://www.indiannavy.nic.in/content/indias-largest-bank-teams-nations-largest-warship|archive-date=27 February 2022}}</ref>

|Current Chief of Staff, [[Western Naval Command]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Aircraft-carrier-INS-Vikramaditya-gets-a-new-commanding-officer/articleshow/49638095.cms|title=Aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya gets a new commanding officer|website=The Times of India|access-date=31 December 2022}}</ref>

|Current Flag Officer Commanding Gujarat Naval Area.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1000581081215655938|title=Capt Puruvir Das assumes command of India's only aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya|last=SpokespersonNavy|date=26 May 2018|website=@indiannavy|language=en|access-date=31 December 2022}}</ref>

On 17 January 2018, ''Vikramaditya'' was ceremonially affiliated to the following formations:<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiannavy.nic.in/content/affiliation-ins-vikramaditya-bihar-regiment-and-no-6-squadron-indian-air-force|title=Indian Navy Press Release, dated 18 January 2018.|website=www.indiannavy.nic.in|language=en|access-date=18 January 2022}}</ref>  

On 10 June 2016, while undergoing a scheduled major refit of INS ''Vikramaditya'',<ref>{{Cite web|last=Pandit|first=Rajat |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/INS-Vikramaditya-aircraft-carrier-accident-2-killed/articleshow/52693139.cms|title=Accident on aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, 2 killed|website=The Times of India|date=10 June 2016|access-date=14 June 2016|url-status=live|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160612133212/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/INS-Vikramaditya-aircraft-carrier-accident-2-killed/articleshow/52693139.cms|archive-date=12 June 2022}}</ref> two people were killed by a toxic gas leak that occurred during maintenance work in the Sewage Treatment Plant compartment of INS ''Vikramaditya'' at [[Karwar, Karnataka|Karwar]]. Two other people were injured and taken to the naval hospital.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/two-killed-in-toxic-gas-leak-on-board-ins-vikramaditya/story-l3XDbxZ5WgO3kjB9FPh9iI.html|title=Two killed in toxic gas leak on board INS Vikramaditya|date=10 June 2016|work=Hindustan Times |access-date=14 June 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160614032708/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/two-killed-in-toxic-gas-leak-on-board-ins-vikramaditya/story-l3XDbxZ5WgO3kjB9FPh9iI.html|archive-date=14 June 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/ins-vikramaditya-gas-leak-two-dead-2846078/|title=Two killed on board INS Vikramaditya after toxic gas leak |date=10 June 2016|website=The Indian Express |access-date=14 June 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160613101733/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/ins-vikramaditya-gas-leak-two-dead-2846078/|archive-date=13 June 2022}}</ref>

On 26 April 2019, one naval officer died of smoke inhalation at Karwar's naval hospital [[INHS Patanjali]], and seven others were injured after fighting a fire that erupted in the boiler room of ''Vikramaditya'' on her course to INS Kadamba.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2019/apr/26/naval-officer-dies-while-fighting-fire-on-board-ins-vikramaditya-probe-ordered-1969318.html|title=Naval officer dies while fighting fire on board INS Vikramaditya, probe ordered |date=26 April 2019|work=The New Indian Express |access-date=26 April 2022}}</ref>

*{{cite book|last=Verma|first=Bharat|title=Indian Defence Review Vol. 26.3 Jul-sep 2011.|year=2011|publisher=Lancer Publication|isbn=978-8170622314|ref={{sfnref|Bharat_Verma|2022}}}}

*{{cite book|last=Brien|first=Terry|title=Twenty Twenty Gk Eng 2012|year=2012|publisher=Tata McGraw-Hill Education|isbn=978-1259001192|ref={{sfnref|Terry_Brien|2022}}}}