BREAKING Historic first night landing of MiG-29K on INS Vikrant (WATCH)

"This challenging night landing trial also demonstrates the resolve, skill and professionalism of the Vikrant crew and the naval pilots,” Indian Navy PRO Commander Vivek Madhwal said.

The Indian Navy has achieved another historic milestone by undertaking the maiden night landing of MiG-29K fighter aircraft on INS Vikrant. As per the Indian Navy, this is indicative of the Navy’s impetus towards 'aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance).

"This challenging night landing trial also demonstrates the resolve, skill and professionalism of the Vikrant crew and the naval pilots,” Indian Navy PRO Commander Vivek Madhwal said.

INS Vikrant is the first indigenous Aircraft Carrier and the most complex warship ever built by India. The aircraft carrier was designed in-house by Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited. 

On August 4, 2021, the carrier sailed for its maiden sea trials. It was commissioned into the Indian Navy on September 2, 2022.

Prior to this, the aircraft carrier has been undertaking extensive air operations with Rotary Wing and Fixed Wing aircraft since December 13 towards Air Certification and Flight Integration Trials for achieving the ultimate aim of being ‘Combat Ready’. 

On February 6, 2023, the landing of LCA (Navy) and MiG-29K onboard INS Vikrant was carried out by Indian Naval Test Pilots.

“The landing of MiG-29K onboard INS Vikrant is also a significant achievement as it marks the successful integration of the aircraft with the indigenous carrier as well as further enhances the Combat Readiness of the Navy,” the Indian Navy said.