India could build its third nuclear powered aircraft carrier as part of a 15-year defence modernization plan announced today that also includes the use of Indian-made fighter jets by the navy for
India could build its third nuclear powered aircraft carrier as part of a 15-year defence modernization plan announced today that also includes the use of Indian-made fighter jets by the navy for the first time.
Bordered by rivals China and Pakistan, both of whom India has clashed with in deadly fights in recent years, New Delhi is increasingly leaning on domestic defence companies to bolster capabilities and cut dependence on foreign suppliers such as Russia, France and the United States.
"As the nation stands on the threshold of embracing greater challenges and responsibilities in the forthcoming decades, it is but imperative that the Services be equipped accordingly," said the defence ministry's 2025 roadmap.
"Greater private-public sector partnership is thus the road ahead."
India currently operates two aircraft carriers, one of Russian origin and the other home-built. The proposed carrier is expected to be nuclear-powered, a first for India, for longer reach and stealthier operations.
The document outlines the need for at least 10 nuclear propulsion systems to support the carrier and other future warships, underscoring India's ambition to expand its strategic reach across the Indian Ocean.
India also plans to induct an unspecified number of new-generation twin-engine, deck-based fighters and
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