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Mumbai: Renowned Bollywood actor Sunny Deol, who is eagerly anticipating the launch of his new film Border 2, recently toured the Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.

On Thursday, he shared a collection of photos from his visit on Instagram, showcasing moments with the Border 2 team, including notable figures like Anu Malik and Sonu Nigam, along with the film's producers.

In his heartfelt caption, Deol expressed, “Some places don’t just surround you; they change you. INS Vikrant filled me with immense pride, strength, and courage. A moment I’ll carry forever. Salute to our Navy, our forces, and the spirit that protects our motherland every single day. Jai Hind.”

INS Vikrant stands as India's first domestically constructed aircraft carrier, marking a significant advancement in the nation's naval capabilities. Officially commissioned into the Indian Navy on September 2, 2022, it was developed by Cochin Shipyard Limited as part of the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) initiative. This new vessel is named after India's inaugural aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant (1961), and signifies a major evolution in design, scale, and self-sufficiency.

Weighing approximately 45,000 tonnes and measuring around 262 meters in length, the carrier is capable of operating around 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighter jets and helicopters like the MH-60R and Kamov variants.

Utilizing a STOBAR (Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) configuration, it features a ski-jump and arrestor wires. Powered by four gas turbines, INS Vikrant can reach speeds of over 28 knots. Notably, more than 75% of its components are sourced from within India, including steel, propulsion systems, aviation facilities, and combat management systems.

The ship boasts advanced sensors, a contemporary command-and-control framework, and multi-layered air defense systems. INS Vikrant significantly bolsters India's blue-water navy capabilities, facilitating sustained air operations at sea and enhancing maritime security throughout the Indian Ocean Region.