INS Viraat decommissioned: World's oldest serving aircraft carrier sails into pages of history

INS Viraat decommissioned: World's oldest serving aircraft carrier sails into pages of history

FP Staff March 7, 2017, 10:22:37 IST

The majestic INS Viraat, the world’s oldest serving aircraft carrier, sailed into pages of history on Monday with the final lowering of the Naval Ensign and Commissioning Pendant in a solemn ceremony at sundown.

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The majestic INS Viraat, the world’s oldest serving aircraft carrier, sailed into pages of history on Monday with the final lowering of the Naval Ensign and Commissioning Pendant in a solemn ceremony at sundown. PTI

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The warship was decommissioned on Monday evening, at an impressive ceremony onboard and in the presence of Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba and top armed forces officials. PTI

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Monday’s elaborate but solemn ceremonies included the release of a Special Cover by Army Postal Service and a book on the history of INS Viraat, which was known as HMS Hermes during her tenure with the Royal Navy. PTI

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On Monday its last day in service, the fate of the aircraft carrier remained unclear as to whether it will be converted into a luxury hotel or head to the scrapyard to be broken up. PTI

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Armed with a motto of ‘Jalamev Yasya, Balamev Tasya’ (Sanskrit for One Who Controls The Sea is All Powerful), the ship played major roles for the country in Operation Jupiter, Operation Parakram and Operation Vijay, and other operations and duties. PTI

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