India deploys INS Vikramaditya amidst Sea Guardians-The China-Pakistan naval drill

On January 6, 2020, China and Pakistan had launched a naval drill in North Arabian Sea called the Sea Guardians. The aim of the drill is to increase inter-operability between the two navies. On January 10, 2020, India deployed its INS Vikramaditya in North Arabian Sea where the exercise is being held.

Highlights

China and Pakistan launched a nine-day mega naval exercise. The Exercise Sea Guardians is taking place when there are heightened tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir issue.

Significance of deployment of INS VIkramaditya

In September 2019, Indian Navy drove out a Chinese PLA in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone and warned that such activities will be dealt sternly. Also, China has been increasing its presence in the region lately. China has built a naval base in Djibouti in Horn of Africa from where Arabian Sea provides entry to Indian Ocean. Also, China is developing Pakistan’s Gwadar port, thereby increasing its presence in North Arabian Sea.

Therefore, it is essential for India to give signals to its neighbours that it is cautiously watching their activities. Also,India wants to make sure the maritime delimitation is well maintained.

Why INS Vikramaditya?

Apart from all other ships, INS Vikramaditya is one of the top-rated aircraft carriers globally. It was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2013. It is about 284 metres long, 60 m high. It has a total of 22 decks. It can carry 30 aircrafts that includes Chetak helicopter, MiG 29K, Kamov 28, ALH-Dhruv, etc.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2020