The President of India Ram Nath Kovind witnessed Naval Operations Demonstration in the Ernakulam channel in Kochi, which showcased Indian Navy’s prowess and operations. The President was accompanied by the Governor of Kerala, Arif Mohammad Khan and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Vice Admiral MA Hampiholi, AVSM, NM.
This event lasted for 40 minutes where the combat capability of ships and aircraft such as simulated beaching reconnaissance and assault, high speed runs by fast interceptor crafts, shore bombardment, aerobatics, sonar dunk operations and many more were displayed. The highlights of the day were the manning of the yard and arms of the Sail Training Ship ‘Tarangini’ along with steam past by Naval ships which manoeuvred in a column formation. The event concluded with a band performance by the Naval band and fly past by aircraft.
The President further visited the under-construction Indigenous Aircraft Carrier ‘Vikrant’ at Cochin Shipyard Ltd., Kochi. This was the Supreme Commander’s first visit to the ship.
Indigenous content in the construction of IAC is close to 76% of the overall project cost of Rs 19,341 Crore. IAC has a large number of indigenous materials such as steel, besides other equipment manufactured by Indian industrial houses and about 100 MSMEs. The development of this transporter has created work openings and supported furrow back impact for the domestic economy. Close to 2,000 shipyards and 13,000 non-yard personnel have been employed per annum towards the construction of IAC
