India's First Indigenous Aircraft Carrier INS Vikrant to be Delivered in December 2018 India's minister of defense announced that the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant will be delivered to the Indian Navy in December 2018. The non-availability of warship grade steel, delayed ordering of propulsion system integration and delay in russian approvals for design and equipment supply are the reasons for the hold back. India on June 10th 2015 undocked its first indigenously-built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in the South West of the country. The ship is currently undergoing final outfitting. The launch of the 37,500-tonnes, 260 metres long and is 60 metres wide vessel was behind schedule by three years. It is expected to start its sea trials in 2016. Maximum speed of the ship is announced at 28 knots, the ship reported range is 7,500 nautical miles at a speed of 18 knots. INS Vikrant is set to receive a large crew complement composed of 160 officers and 1,400 sailors. The aircraft carrier will be able to accommodate 30 fighters and helicopters, including Mig-29K fighters and Ka-31 helicopters. India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. Picture: Indian Navy source