Indian Navy (1977-today) INS Rajput, Rana, Ranjit, Ranvir, Ranvijay The Rajput class (or “R” class) were basically Kashin II class destroyers built in Nikolaiev, USSR between 1979 and 1988. Project 61ME, the export version for Indian their only buyer, they had SSN-2C “Styx” launchers mounted forward on either side of the SAM. These missiles for … Read more
Indian Aircraft Carrier 1986-2017 During the cold war, India operated one aircraft carrier, the ISN Vikrant from 1961, helping to create a whole generation of Indian naval aviation officers, including veterans of two wars. But after the 1971 war and China’s new stance on the international stage, the need for an eastern fleet, and battle … Read more
Indian Aircraft Carrier 1961-1997 The first Indian Aircraft Carrier was the former light fleet carrier HMS Hercules (Majestic class) ordered in 1942, laid down in October 1943, launched 22 September 1945 and construction suspended in May 1946, 75% complete. Purchased in January 1957 by India, towed to Belfast for completion and modernization by Harland and … Read more
