Cochin Shipyard set to install missile systems on INS Vikrant

• The indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant is now all set to join the Navy.
• Now, its builder, the Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has to complete the installation of the Long Range Surface to Air Missile (LR-SAM) system, and the MF-STAR (multi-functional digital active electronically scanned array) radar.

LR-SAM

• A joint development by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) of Israel.
• Manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited.

MF-STAR

• Manufactured by the IAI
• In service on other frontline warships of the Indian Navy.

INS Vikrant

• Designed by the Directorate of Naval Design
• Constructed by CSL
• Has a displacement of 42,800 tonnes
• Powered by four General Electric engines
• Can carry an air wing of 30 helicopters, fighters, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
• The keel was laid in 2009 and was launched into water in 2013.
• Uses an aircraft-operation mode known as Short Take Off But Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) for which it is equipped with a ski-jump for launching aircraft, and a set of three 'arrestor wires’ for their recovery onboard.

Prelims Takeaway

• DRDO
• INS Vikrant
• LR-SAM