NEW DELHI: On May 25, the MiG-29K conducted its first night landing on the nation's first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, marking another historic first for the Indian Navy test pilots. The Indian Navy has concentrated on completing the next aircraft carrier's air combat readiness by the end of 2023.
Taking on twitter, Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu wrote, “Congratulations to @indiannavy on successfully undertaking maiden night landing of MiG-29K on @IN_R11Vikrant. This is yet another historic milestone by our Navy pilots and Vikrant crew. Salute their skill, passion & commitment. @PMOIndia
@DefenceMinIndia, @rajnathsingh”
Meanwhile, the nighttime landing on the aircraft carrier's deck, in the opinion of Commander Vivek Madhwal's official spokesperson, showed the navy pilots and crew of the INS Vikrant their professionalism, competence, and resolve. In addition, this has demonstrated the navy's direction and progress in reaching self-reliance, or "Atmanirbharta."
A prototype of the naval version of the locally created Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas planes and a MiG-29K of Russian origin both made day landings on the aircraft carrier in February.
Rajnath Singh, India's defense minister, commended the Indian Navy for the MiG-29K's first-ever successful night landing test on INS Vikrant.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated and wrote on twitter, “Congratulations to the Indian Navy for successfully undertaking the maiden night landing trials of MiG-29K on #INSVikrant. This remarkable achievement is a testimony to the skills, perseverance and professionalism of the Vikrant crew and Naval pilots. Kudos to them.”
INS Vikarant Up to 30 aircraft, or about 18 fighter jets and helicopters, can fit on this aircraft carrier. Three MiG29K fighter jets and Advanced Light Helicopters are currently stationed there.
Moreover, INS Vikrant, which was constructed for about Rs 23,000 crore, has an advanced air defence network and anti-ship missile weapons.
It has space for thirty helicopters and combat jets.
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