With its plans to launch a next-generation CATOBAR (Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) carrier delayed by external technological hurdles, India’s carrier modernization is at a crossroads. Both the INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, the Indian Navy’s two STOBAR (Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) carriers, are constrained by ski-jump launches that limit fighter aircraft to carrying fewer weaponry and fuel. This weakens India’s ability to project power over the Indian Ocean and beyond by reducing stamina and striking adaptability.
The jump toward modern naval aviation capability was symbolized by the projected INS Vishal, a 65,000-ton super-carrier. The carrier was intended to be a qualitative competitor to Chinese PLAN carriers entering the Indo-Pacific region, with plans to include the U.S.-developed EMALS (Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System) and maybe nuclear propulsion. Nevertheless, EMALS technology transfers are still unclear in spite of the 2015 Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) frameworks. Progress has been severely slowed by U.S. export laws, congressional scrutiny, and worries about cost and technical maturity.
In addition to negotiating access to foreign technologies, India faces growing expenses and delays. Operational and maintenance issues are brought up by EMALS integration, which is already difficult for the US Navy’s Gerald R. Ford-class carriers. Due to these challenges, India’s plans for INS Vishal have advanced well past 2030, making it more difficult for the country to keep up with regional naval growth, especially China’s quick launching of carriers that are ready for CATOBAR.
Initiatives for self-reliance are growing in response. Utilizing developments in pulsed power systems, high-power electronics, and superconducting materials, DRDO has increased its investigation into domestic EMALS prototypes. Although they are still in the early stages of experimentation, parallel initiatives in integrated power systems and electric drive propulsion are in line with the larger objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Though technically challenging, this shift could strengthen domestic manufacturing ecosystems and protect India from reliance on foreign partners.
Regarding aviation, a deal worth approximately $8 billion has been approved by New Delhi to purchase 26 Rafale-M carrier fighters. These planes remain compatible with CATOBAR boats in the future while offering Vikrant and Vikramaditya quick operational reinforcement. In order to bridge gaps until Vishal becomes a reality, pairing the Rafale-M with possible naval AMCA variants provides long-term fleet standardization.
Alternative collaborations are also being researched. While UK companies are looking into contributing to electric drive propulsion systems, France has shown a desire to work with them on nuclear propulsion reactors, such those that power the Charles de Gaulle. India’s effort to lessen its reliance on any one supplier is reflected in this diversification of partners, which helps to mitigate the risks associated with export restrictions and geopolitics.
However, there is a growing strategic disagreement among India’s Navy circles. Without timely CATOBAR capabilities, the service risks committing scarce resources to an asset vulnerable to obsolescence.
This supports the case for giving nuclear and conventional submarine growth first priority since they provide guaranteed deterrence, sea denial, and survivability against changing threats. Submarines may offer more immediate operational advantages than delayed mega-carriers, especially considering China’s impressive and expanding underwater fleet.
India’s career plan brings to light a larger conundrum: striking a balance between aspiration and reality. Super carriers are still essential for sea-lane security and blue-water superiority, but their success depends on unwavering technology, dependable aircraft operations, and guaranteed financial commitment. India’s maritime deterrence posture would be weakened if INS Vishal were to be continuously delayed in the absence of clear progress on EMALS transfers, domestic power solutions, or strategic alliances.
