India Races to Match China: IAC-2 Awaits Approval as Fujian Nears 2026 Operational Capabilities
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· India's bilateral relations· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
India is accelerating the development of its third aircraft carrier (IAC-2) to counter China's Fujian carrier, which is expected to be operational by 2026.
Background
India currently operates two aircraft carriers: INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. The Indian Navy is seeking approval for the third carrier (IAC-2) to enhance power projection in the Indo-Pacific region.
Facts for Prelims
- FactIndia currently operates two aircraft carriers: INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.
- FactChina's Fujian carrier is expected to reach full operational capability by 2026.
- S&TAircraft carriers are used for power projection and maritime presence.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of aircraft carriers in India's maritime strategy to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Power projection capabilities
- Strategic autonomy vs. foreign base reliance
- Maritime security in the Indo-Pacific
Keywords: Power projection · Maritime security · Strategic autonomy · Indo-Pacific · Naval supremacy
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.