Which warship served two navies, fought in a conflict, and then trained a generation of Indian sailors? That is INS Viraat. Its story still sparks awe.
From HMS Hermes to INS Viraat
She began life in 1959 as HMS Hermes. The carrier later joined the Indian Navy in 1987 as INS Viraat. The transformation was deep. Yet, the spirit stayed fierce. Official notes record this shift and legacy. See the decommissioning brief and facts from the Press Information Bureau (PIB). PIB Decommissioning Release.
What Made Viraat Different
Think of a floating airbase. Sea Harriers launched off a ski-jump. Helicopters guarded sea lanes. Quick drills. Fast response. Strong command at sea.
Key Operations: War and Peace
- Operation Jupiter (1989): During peacekeeping operations related to Sri Lanka, Viraat flew 76 helicopter sorties in one push to embark troops and supplies. This tempo showed reach and readiness. Source: PIB Feature.
- Operation Vijay (1999): During the Kargil conflict, the Navy enforced a maritime blockade. Viraat added deterrence at sea. Source: PIB Release.
- Operation Parakram (2001–02): In a high-alert phase, the carrier took part in strategic deployments. Presence mattered. Source: PIB Release.
- International Fleet Review (2016): Viraat sailed in a major naval showcase. She drew eyes and respect. Source: PIB Release.
By the Numbers
| Metric | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Flying hours (under Indian flag) | 22,622+ | PIB |
| Days at sea | ~2,252 | PIB |
| Distance sailed | 5,88,287 NM (~10,94,215 km) | PIB |
| First big Indian operation | Operation Jupiter (1989) | PIB Feature |
Air Wing and Capabilities
Sea Harriers formed the combat punch. Sea Kings hunted submarines and saved lives. Chetak and later Ka-31/ALH added lift and watch. The deck worked as a team. The ship acted as base, shield, and spear.
From Borrowed Steel to Indian Giants
Viraat linked two eras. First, India sailed British-built carriers. Then, India learned to refit and operate a larger, re-engineered Soviet hull as INS Vikramaditya. Finally, India built its own carrier—INS Vikrant (2022)—at Cochin Shipyard. Now, India looks ahead to the next leap with INS Vishal. One path. Four milestones. And Viraat stands at the bridge between them.
Legacy That Endures
The carrier trained leaders. She hosted 22 commanding officers. She mentored air squadrons. She showed what a carrier group can do in the Indian Ocean. In March 2017, she retired with honors. The PIB recorded her farewell in detail. Read the official note. A later update also captured museum plans and their status. PIB: Final Status.
Continue the Series
- Next: INS Vikramaditya – From Soviet Steel to Indian Flag
- Then read: INS Vikrant – India’s Indigenous Carrier
- Explore: INS Vishal – The Next Leap
- Careers: How to Join the Indian Navy
FAQs
When was INS Viraat decommissioned?
On 6 March 2017 at sunset. Source: PIB.
What was INS Viraat’s first major Indian operation?
Operation Jupiter in July 1989. Source: PIB Feature.
How far did the ship sail under the Indian flag?
About 5,88,287 nautical miles. Source: PIB.
Viraat was more than a ship. She was a bridge from the past to the future. Curious how the story evolves? Follow our Indian Navy Power Series next.
