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Nicobar Islands Military Base, Bharat, June 15, 1943
The sun had just begun to rise over the Nicobar Islands, casting a golden hue across the military base. The air was thick with the scent of saltwater and the distant hum of naval ships. Commodore Rajan stood on the deck of BNS Vikrant, the flagship of the Bharatiya Navy, based on HMS Hercules which was modified accordingly, his eyes scanning the horizon. This was the first indigenously developed aircraft carrier as there was an urgent need for an aircraft carrier in the Bharatiya Navy. The displacement was 24,000 tons (standard) and 28,500 tons (full load), with dimensions being a length of approximately 213.3 meters (700 feet), a beam of around 27.4 meters (90 feet), and a draught of approximately 8.8 meters (29 feet). For propulsion, it had enhanced steam turbines with increased power output, which helped it achieve a maximum speed of around 25 knots. It also had an extended operational range due to increased fuel capacity. It had an expanded capacity to carry around 30-40 aircraft, including a mix of fighter-bombers, anti-submarine aircraft, and helicopters, with an enlarged hangar to accommodate additional aircraft and maintenance facilities. It was equipped with modernized anti-aircraft and close-in weapon systems (CIWS) for enhanced defense, surface-to-air missile systems for improved aerial defense, and advanced torpedo defense systems along with other modifications in radar and communication systems. Additionally, the more advanced version of BNS Vikrant with STOBAR (Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) system, and BNS Vikramaditya, inspired by Kiev class aircraft carriers, were under construction and would be commissioned around next year or so.
The past few months had been tense for the Bharatiya Navy, with the Japanese forces maintaining a defensive stance. However, recent intelligence from coastal border patrols indicated a shift in their strategy.
"Commodore, we've received reports from our patrols," Lieutenant Suraj reported, saluting sharply. "The Japanese are mobilizing their forces and preparing for aggressive actions towards our bases in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands."
Rajan's expression hardened. "Alert all units. We need to be ready for any eventuality. Inform the higher-ups that we are prepared to take necessary actions, even if it means pursuing them beyond our controlled areas."
Near Indonesian Waters, June 20, 1943
The sea was a vast expanse of blue, deceptively calm as the Bharatiya Navy's fleet, led by BNS Vikrant, approached the Indonesian waters. The tension was palpable, with every sailor and officer on high alert. The Japanese fleet, which was formidable and well-prepared, awaited them.
As dawn broke, the first wave of Japanese aircraft appeared on the horizon.
"Enemy aircraft spotted!" shouted the lookout.
Commodore Rajan, standing resolute on the deck, gave the order. "Launch our aircraft. Prepare for engagement!"
As they engaged with the enemy the sky was soon filled with the roar of engines and the crackle of anti-aircraft fire.
"Stay in formation and follow the radar guidance," instructed Squadron Leader Manish over the radio. "Engage only when you have a clear shot."
Utilizing the enhanced radar systems, the Bharatiya pilots executed precise maneuvers, engaging the Japanese aircraft in dogfights. While on the other side, the fighter-bombers, with their superior agility, managed to outmaneuver the enemy, taking down several Japanese planes.
"Good hit, Bravo Two!" Manish called out. "Keep them off our ships!"
Despite the advantages gained by Bharatiya side, the Japanese, known for their disciplined formations, did not back down and retaliated with even more fierceness. However, the Bharatiya anti-aircraft systems proved effective, creating a protective shield around the fleet.
"Enemy destroyers and cruisers advancing!" reported the radar operator over the radio.
The Japanese changed tactics by advancing their destroyers and cruisers , they opened fire on the Bharatiya ships. In retaliation, the BNS Vikrant deployed its modernized weapon systems. It fired a barrage of missiles and torpedoes towards the Japanese.
"Fire at will!" ordered Rajan. "Target their lead ships."
The sea battle intensified as the Japanese fleet pressed forward. Sensing the right time, Bharatiya frigates and destroyers moved into strategic positions, launching coordinated attacks on the advancing enemy vessels. The air was filled with the thunder of explosions and the acrid smell of gunpowder.
"Maintain formation and keep up the pressure!" Rajan commanded, his voice steady amidst the chaos.
The Japanese fleet, though formidable, began to show signs of strain under the relentless assault. Unbeknownst to the Japanese, who made the mistake of not deploying submarines of their own while once again doubting the capabilities of Bharat, two newly made Bharatiya submarines, BNS Chakra and BNS Varuna, lay in wait for the opportune moment.
"Submarines, prepare to engage," came the command over the radio.
As the Japanese ships pursued, they found themselves suddenly surrounded by Bharatiya submarines and frigates.
"Submarines, launch torpedoes!" came the command over the radio.
The Bharatiya submarines, BNS Chakra and BNS Varuna, inspired by the German Type-XXI U-boat, launched a coordinated torpedo attack, crippling several Japanese vessels. The element of surprise and precise execution left the Japanese fleet in disarray.
"Direct hit on their cruiser!" reported a submarine captain over the radio. "They're retreating!"
As the Japanese fleet retreated following the unexpected attack, the aircraft from BNS Vikrant provided relentless support, targeting the remaining Japanese ships. The combination of air and sea attacks overwhelmed the enemy.
However, the battle took a dramatic turn as Japanese Kamikaze pilots, in a desperate bid to turn the tide, launched suicide attacks on the Bharatiya fleet. The Kamikaze planes, loaded with explosives, dove towards the Bharatiya ships with terrifying speed.
"Kamikaze incoming!" shouted the lookout.
"Brace for impact!" Rajan ordered, his voice tense.
The Bharatiya anti-aircraft guns roared to life, trying to intercept the Kamikaze planes. However, despite their efforts, a few planes managed to break through the defenses, crashing into the ships and causing significant damage.
"Damage control teams, report!" Rajan demanded.
"Minor damage to the port side, sir," came the response. "We're holding steady."
The Kamikaze attacks, though devastating, did not break the resolve of the Bharatiya Navy. The fleet regrouped and continued their assault on the retreating Japanese ships.
As the smoke cleared, the remnants of the Japanese fleet were seen retreating. The Bharatiya Navy had not only defended their territory but had also demonstrated superior tactics and coordination.
"Excellent work, everyone," Rajan said, his voice filled with pride. "We've shown them our strength today."
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