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<br /> As the mercury plummets and the latest weather forecast predicts fresh rounds of <keyword id="10265" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Snow">snow</keyword> across the Indian mountains, a gleeful crowd from home and abroad goes traipsing upon the ethereal <keyword id="918784" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="ski-slopes">ski slopes</keyword>. Heading off to the <keyword id="23693" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Swiss-Alps">Swiss Alps</keyword> or <keyword id="2005582" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Val-dIsre">Val d’Isère</keyword> in <keyword id="6354785" type="COUNTRY" weightage="60" keywordseo="France">France</keyword> might be the classic choice of many, but <keyword id="2005583" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Powder-skiing">powder skiing</keyword> in the <keyword id="52569" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="himalayas">Himalayas</keyword> is getting increasingly popular among local and <keyword id="1704954" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="global-tourists">global tourists</keyword> in love with <keyword id="1614562" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="winter-sports">winter sports</keyword>. India is now home to a dozen or so <keyword id="2005584" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ski-areas">ski areas</keyword> and plans are afoot to build several international standard <keyword id="78303" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ski-resorts">ski resorts</keyword>.<br />
<br /> <keyword id="90842" type="SPORT" weightage="100" keywordseo="skiing">Skiing</keyword> took off in the country during the days of the <keyword id="81273" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="British-Raj">British Raj</keyword> when two army officers first started the <keyword id="2005578" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ski-Club-of-India">Ski Club of India</keyword> in <keyword id="108228" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Gulmarg">Gulmarg</keyword> back in 1927. Fast-forward to 2014 and you will find improved facilities, along with the eternally breathtaking <keyword id="6439698" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="mountain">mountain</keyword> views, the best <keyword id="2005590" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Powder-snow">powder snow</keyword> and the vast, undulating <keyword id="2005591" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Snowy-tracks">snowy tracks</keyword> – from <keyword id="2005592" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Gentle-slopes">gentle slopes</keyword> and <keyword id="2005593" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Groomed-trails">groomed trails</keyword> to <keyword id="2005595" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Steep-bowls">steep bowls</keyword>, <keyword id="2005596" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Chutes">chutes</keyword> and <keyword id="2005598" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Tree-runs">tree runs</keyword> spilling off the magnificent ridges. Gulmarg in <keyword id="23412" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Jammu-Kashmir">Jammu &amp; Kashmir</keyword> and <keyword id="484044" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Auli">Auli</keyword> in <keyword id="44522" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Uttarakhand">Uttarakhand</keyword> are the showpiece destinations, especially Auli, which features the <keyword id="2005599" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Second-largest-slopes-in-Asia">second largest slopes in Asia</keyword>. A research survey by the <keyword id="2005579" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Alpine-Tourism-Promotion-Council">Alpine Tourism Promotion Council</keyword> (ATPC) considers Auli’s slopes to be the best in the world.<br />
<br /> <keyword id="2005600" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Heli-skiing">Heli-skiing</keyword> in the Himalays is another fabulous experience as the chopper flies one to spectacular heights and the <keyword id="105846" type="POSITION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Skier">skier</keyword> rides down the unexplored slopes – the perfect setting for this great <keyword id="6739232" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Adventure-sport">adventure sport</keyword>. The thrill-hunters can also go <keyword id="2005604" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Yak-skiing">yak skiing</keyword> in <keyword id="6363190" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Manali">Manali</keyword> – an <keyword id="2005608" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Extreme-snow-sport">extreme snow sport</keyword> only meant for the brave hearts. Those looking for <keyword id="2005609" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Off-season-skiing">off-season skiing</keyword> would not be disappointed either. There is <keyword id="2005611" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Grass-skiing-in-summer">grass skiing in summer</keyword>, held on a 120 meter-long grassy slope in <keyword id="569617" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Solang-Valley">Solang Valley</keyword> where one can use special <keyword id="2005612" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Skis-fitted-with-wheels">skis fitted with wheels</keyword>. If you are already feeling excited and want to chill out among the snow, slopes and the wild <keyword id="383218" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="slides">slides</keyword> and <keyword id="95340" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Tumbles">tumbles</keyword>, here is a look at India’s 7 <keyword id="2005614" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Best-skiing-destinations">best skiing destinations</keyword>.<br />
<br />
<strong>Image:</strong> Wikipedia

Time To Celebrate The Snow: Check Out These 7 Ski Destinations
In India

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Russia's sole aircraft carrier, Admiral Kuznetsov, has been out of action for years for repairs.</li><li>Russia's navy and its Soviet predecessor both struggled to keep their aircraft carriers operational.</li></ul><p>In July, Russian state media <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russias-sole-aircraft-carrier-may-re-enter-service-by-2024-end-tass-2023-07-04/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reported</a> that Russia's sole aircraft carrier, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-navy-struggles-with-kuznetsov-aircraft-carrier-kirov-battlecruisers-2023-5" target="_top">Admiral Kuznetsov</a>, could return to active service by the end of 2024.</p><p>Kuznetsov has been undergoing repairs since 2017, and its return to duty has been delayed repeatedly <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russian-aircraft-carrier-admiral-kuznetsov-delayed-again-2022-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">by mishaps and malfunctions</a>.</p><p>The carrier has done only one combat deployment in its nearly 30-year career, and its return would be a milestone, but even if the Kuznetsov passes its planned sea trials, equipping the ship with a fully functioning air wing will probably remain a significant task for Russia.</p><p>Despite <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/soviet-union-aircraft-carriers-are-still-influencing-other-navies-2020-12" target="_top">operating aircraft-carrying ships</a> for more than a half-century, Russia has struggled to build effective fixed-wing jets for those ships to carry into action.</p><h2>Yakovlev Yak-38</h2><div type="image" title="Russian Soviet navy Yak-38 aircraft carrier" height="1211" width="2000" msid="105245820" hostid="261"></div><p>The dawn of the jet age after World War II <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/history-of-us-navy-aircraft-carriers-supercarriers-to-ford-class-2020-10" target="_top">ushered in advances in carrier aviation</a> as well.</p><p>The Soviets had seen the advantages in the vertical/short-takeoff-and-landing design, or V/STOL, used by Britain's <a href="https://airandspace.si.edu/collection-objects/hawker-siddeley-xv-6a-kestrel-fga-mk-1/nasm_A19740943000" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hawker Siddeley Kestrel</a> — the precursor to the now-renown Harrier "jump jet" — in the 1960s and opted to use that design for their first carrier jets.</p><p>The result, the <a href="https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.php?aircraft_id=189" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yak-38</a>, was introduced in 1976 — three years before the British navy's <a href="https://www.militarytoday.com/aircraft/bae_sea_harrier.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sea Harrier</a> entered service — as the Soviet Union's first fixed-wing aircraft for its <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/soviet-union-aircraft-carriers-are-still-influencing-other-navies-2020-12" target="_top">first true aircraft carriers, the Kiev-class</a>.</p><p>The Yak-38 had two lift jets behind the cockpit and a single vectored-thrust turbofan engine with two adjustable nozzles that could be pointed downward for vertical flight. Its stub wings, which could be folded to save space, had four hardpoints, enabling the jet to carry about 2,000 pounds of ordnance.</p><p>A total of 231 Yak-38s were eventually built. Despite its novelty, however, the jet was mostly a failure.</p><div type="image" title="Russian Soviet navy Yak-38 aircraft carrier" height="1574" width="2000" msid="105245821" hostid="261"></div><p>It was prone to mechanical issues, especially in hot and humid environments. By the end of Kiev's first cruise in 1976, for instance, only one of its six Yak-38s was still operational. The jet also had trouble with its automatic ejection system, which was activated by accident on multiple occasions and wrecked the jets.</p><p>The Yak-38 had many other shortcomings. Its range, payload, and speed were less than that of rival militaries' aircraft. Even the updated Yak-36M, with a longer range and double the payload, was underpowered compared with NATO carrier aircraft.</p><p>The inefficiency of the Yak-38's lift engines meant the jet rarely took off vertically, as it consumed too much fuel and limited the jet's already small payload. The Yak-38 didn't have its own radar, meaning its pilot was reliant on visual sightings or on other Soviet forces for guidance. The jet could carry Kh-23 anti-ship missiles, but since it was a single-seater, the pilot would have to fly the jet and guide the missile at the same time.</p><p>The Yak-38 only saw combat in landlocked Afghanistan. At least four Yak-38s operated alongside other Soviet jets from a base in the country's southwest in 1980. While it conducted several airstrikes during its monthlong deployment, the jet still struggled with the heat and dust, and its performance was not particularly noteworthy.</p><p>Soviet leaders decided against further upgrades and retired the Yak-38 shortly after the Soviet collapse in 1991.</p><h2>Su-33</h2><div type="image" title="Russia Su-33 fighter takeoff Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier" height="1288" width="2000" msid="105245822" hostid="261"></div><p>Even as the first Kiev-class carriers and Yak-38s began to enter service in the mid-1970s, the Soviets were planning their replacements. By that time, the Soviet military's thinking about the value of sea control and naval air dominance had changed, and its commanders saw that V/STOL jets and the Yak-38, in particular, had limited utility for either.</p><p>The Soviets sought a larger carrier and a jet capable of conventional takeoffs and landings — like those of the major NATO powers — to provide greater range and payload and more reliability in dogfights. The result was the <a href="https://www.militarytoday.com/navy/kuznetsov_class.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kuznetsov-class carrier</a> and the <a href="https://www.militarytoday.com/aircraft/su_33.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Su-33</a>.</p><p>The Su-33 was effectively a naval variant of the <a href="https://www.militarytoday.com/aircraft/sukhoi_su27_flanker.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Su-27</a> air-superiority fighter with several differences, including a reinforced undercarriage and landing gear for carrier landings, forward canards to reduce takeoff distance, a larger wing area for extra lift, foldable wings, and more powerful engines.</p><div type="image" title="Russia Su-33 fighter landing on Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier" height="1280" width="2000" msid="105245824" hostid="261"></div><p>The new jet had a top speed of more than 1,400 mph and a range of more than 2,000 miles, along with a 30mm cannon and 12 hardpoints that could carry 14,000 pounds of ordnance.</p><p>Despite the jet's improvements over the Yak-38, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russian-plans-for-su33-as-carrier-based-fighter-fell-apart-2021-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">it was also of limited effectiveness</a>. Because the jet was exceptionally large, the Kuznetsov, which was smaller than US carriers, couldn't carry many of them. The jet's size also made it difficult to move around on the carrier. The Su-33 was also meant to be capable of ground-attack missions, but its takeoff weight, and thus the weaponry it could carry, were limited by Kuznetsov's ski-jump ramp.</p><p>The Su-33 didn't enter service until after the Cold War, and only about 22 were built. Three have been lost in crashes, and only 17 are believed to still be in service today.</p><h2>MiG-29K</h2><div type="image" title="MiG 29K aircraft INS Vikramaditya indian navy aircraft carrier" height="586" width="1000" msid="105245825" hostid="261"></div><p>While the Sukhoi design firm was working on the Su-33 in the 1980s, the Mikoyan Design Bureau was working on its own carrier aircraft, the MiG-29K, a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/combat-jets-russia-and-ukraine-are-using-in-ukraine-war-2022-7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">naval variant of the MiG-29</a>.</p><p>Work on the MiG-29K was halted in 1991 when the Russian navy selected the Su-33 for its carriers, but the project was revived in 2004 for the Indian navy, which was <a href="https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/all-reasons-why-india-hates-aircraft-carrier-it-bought-russia-92076" target="_blank" rel="noopener">acquiring</a> the Kiev-class carrier Admiral Gorhskov from Russia and wanted the jet for the carrier's air wing.</p><p>With a top speed of about 1,300 mph and the ability to carry 9,900 pounds of ordnance, the MiG-29K was better suited for ground strikes than the Su-33. India also chose the MiG-29K because its air force already operated the MiG-29 and was familiar with the airframe.</p><div type="image" title="Indian navy MiG-29 fighter jet aircraft carrier INS Vikrant" height="1331" width="2000" msid="105245826" hostid="261"></div><p>New Delhi placed two orders, in 2004 and 2010, for 45 aircraft and related equipment for $2.2 billion. Its first MiG-29Ks were delivered in 2009, and the first squadron became operational in 2013. The MiG-29K also underperformed, however.</p><p>A 2016 <a href="https://cag.gov.in/webroot/uploads/download_audit_report/2016/Union_Defence_Services_Navy_and_Coast_Guard_Report_No_17_of_2016.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">report</a> from India's Comptroller and Auditor General said that between 2009 and 2015, the MiG-29Ks that had been delivered were only available for service between 15.93% and 47.14% of the time. In addition to issues with the jet's airframe and avionics, the report said 62% of the engines delivered by Russia had been withdrawn from service or were rejected because of defects and deficiencies.</p><p>At least five of the Indian navy's MiG-29Ks were lost in <a href="https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/indian-navy-reports-crash-of-fifth-mig-29k-in-four-years#:~:text=Of%20the%20five%20MiG%2D29K,during%20the%20last%2010%20years.&amp;text=in%2Dfour%2Dyears-,An%20Indian%20Navy%20Mikoyan%2DGurevich%20MiG%2D29K%20crashed%20in%20the,Arabian%20Sea%20on%2012%20October." target="_blank" rel="noopener">crashes</a> between 2018 and 2022 — a far higher rate than for the Indian air force's MiG-29s. The problems were compounded by the fact that India was wholly reliant on Russia for major support issues, as Moscow refused to transfer jet-engine technology or allow India to build its own MiG-29Ks.</p><p>The Indian navy <a href="https://www.defense-aerospace.com/india-says-mig-29-serviceability-issues-now-solved-admiral/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said</a> in 2018 that all serviceability issues had been resolved. It even <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2020/07/24/india-gets-desperate-for-mountain-fighters-sends-navy-migs-north/?sh=746a6d3878b9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">deployed</a> some MiG-29Ks to the Sino-Indian border at the height of tensions between the countries in 2020. But Delhi appears ready to move on to other jets.</p><div type="image" title="Russia aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov" height="1288" width="2000" msid="105245827" hostid="261"></div><p>Despite designing the country's first domestically built <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/first-jet-landing-on-vikrant-reflect-indian-aircraft-carrier-ambitions-2023-2" target="_top">aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant</a>, around the Russian-made jet, India has opted to retire all its MiG-29Ks by 2035 rather than extend their service lives or buy more. India's navy says it instead <a href="https://www.firstpost.com/india/indian-navy-to-replace-mig-29k-fleet-after-2035-due-to-quality-concerns-12439122.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">plans</a> to buy <a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-communicates-to-france-decision-to-procure-26-rafale-marine-jets/article67468034.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener">26</a> French-built Rafale-M jets, which will require redesigning Vikrant's aircraft elevator, and eventually use a <a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/twin-engine-carrier-based-fighter-for-navy-could-be-inducted-by-2031-32/article66124792.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener">domestically developed</a> carrier-based jet.</p><p>After the MiG-29K program was restarted for India, Russia's navy ordered 25 of the jets in 2009 to be used aboard Kuznetsov. The fighter made its combat debut in 2016, flying from the carrier during a deployment to Syria.</p><p>Neither the jet nor the ship emerged unscathed. In one incident, a MiG-29K broke the carrier's arresting cable during landing. As the crew cleared debris from the deck, another MiG-29K circling overhead crashed into the sea after its engines unexpectedly shut off.</p><p>Russia had planned to replace its Su-33s with MiG-29Ks but later decided that the MiGs would supplement its Su-33 fleet instead. Since Kuznetsov began its refit in early 2017, however, no jet has flown from the ship.</p>

Aircraft carriers aren't the Russian navy's only problem. It has also struggled for decades to build jets for them.

As the scorching summer sun beats down upon the Indian subcontinent, seeking refuge in cold destinations becomes a compelling choice for many. While India is renowned for its sweltering summers, it also boasts several picturesque locations where one can find respite from the heat and revel in the beauty of nature's cooler landscapes. From snow-capped mountains to lush green valleys, here's a guide to some of the most enchanting cold places to visit in India during May.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Ladakh" comment="subhead" text="Ladakh"><span data-til="noop"><keyword id="26604" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ladakh" source="Orion">Ladakh</keyword></span></cmsannotation><br />  <div type="image" title="1" msid="110031327" hostid="261" sizebytes="1834149" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Majestic mountains and turquoise lakes await in the pristine landscapes of Ladakh&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ladakh captivates visitors with its otherworldly landscapes. Accessed via adventurous roads or by air, it boasts Pangong Lake's ethereal blue waters, the ancient monastic serenity of Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries, and the magnetic charm of Magnetic Hill. Trekking through Nubra Valley's sand dunes or rafting down exhilarating rapids are just a few of the adventures awaiting in this high-altitude desert, making Ladakh a haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.<br /><strong>How to Reach: </strong>Ladakh can be reached by air or road. The Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is well-connected to major Indian cities. Alternatively, adventurous souls can embark on a thrilling road trip via Manali-Leh Highway or Srinagar-Leh Highway.<br /><strong>Best Places to Visit: </strong>Ladakh is adorned with breathtaking landscapes. Visit Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill, Shanti Stupa, and Leh Palace for a memorable experience.<br /><strong>Things to Do: </strong>Explore monasteries such as Thiksey Monastery and Hemis Monastery to delve into the region's rich cultural heritage. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like trekking, river rafting, and camel safaris.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Shimla, Himachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Shimla, Himachal Pradesh"><span data-til="noop">Shimla, Himachal Pradesh</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="2" msid="110031274" hostid="261" sizebytes="1350077" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Colonial charm meets scenic vistas in the hill station of Shimla&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Shimla, the erstwhile summer capital of British India, continues to enchant you with its colonial charm and scenic splendour. Accessible by road, rail, or air, it offers strolls along the bustling Mall Road, panoramic views from the Ridge, and spiritual solace at Jakhu Temple. Christ Church's Gothic architecture and the snowy escapades at Kufri add to the city's allure, making it a beloved destination for families, honeymooners, and nature lovers seeking respite from the <keyword id="21177616" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="summer-heat" source="keywords">summer heat</keyword>.<br /><strong>How to Reach: </strong>Shimla is accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Chandigarh, approximately 113 kilometres away. The Kalka-Shimla Railway offers a scenic train journey, while buses and taxis ply regularly from nearby cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.<br /><strong>Best Places to Visit: </strong>Mall Road, The Ridge, Jakhu Temple, Christ Church, and Kufri are among the must-visit attractions in Shimla. Don't miss a ride on the historic Shimla toy train.<br /><strong>Things to Do: </strong>Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, go trekking in the surrounding hills, or simply stroll through the lush greenery. Indulge in shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs on Mall Road.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Darjeeling, West Bengal" comment="subhead" text="Darjeeling, West Bengal"><span data-til="noop">Darjeeling, West Bengal</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="3" msid="110031266" hostid="261" sizebytes="2319147" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Misty mornings and tea-scented air in the enchanting hills of Darjeeling&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Darjeeling is known for its misty mountains and tea-scented air. Reached via scenic train rides or winding roads, it offers sunrise spectacles at Tiger Hill, spiritual introspection at Peace Pagoda, and playful moments at Batasia Loop. The Himalayan Zoo's red pandas and the historic charm of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum add to the region's allure, making it a beloved destination for tea aficionados and mountain enthusiasts alike.<br /><strong>How to Reach: </strong>Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport, situated around 70 kilometres from Darjeeling. New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata and Delhi. From there, you can take a scenic drive or board the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, famously known as the "Toy Train."<br /><strong>Best Places to Visit: </strong>Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum are some of the top attractions.<br /><strong>Things to Do: </strong>Experience the ethereal beauty of sunrise at Tiger Hill, take a joy ride on the Toy Train, explore tea estates, and sample delectable Tibetan cuisine at local eateries.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Manali, Himachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Manali, Himachal Pradesh"><span data-til="noop"><keyword id="19939901" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Manali" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Manali" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Manali">Manali</keyword>, Himachal Pradesh</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="4" msid="110031258" hostid="261" sizebytes="2205192" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Adventure beckons amidst snow-capped peaks in the picturesque town of Manali&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Manali, cradled in the arms of Himachal Pradesh, beckons you with its snow-capped peaks and gushing rivers. Accessible by road from bustling cities, it offers adrenaline-pumping adventures in Solang Valley, ancient spirituality at Hidimba Devi Temple, and a walk through Old Manali's cobbled streets. Rohtang Pass's panoramic vistas and Manu Temple's tranquil ambience add to the region's charm, making it a hotspot for adventurers, honeymooners, and nature lovers alike.<br /><strong>How to Reach: </strong>Manali can be reached via road from cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 kilometres away. Regular buses and taxis ply from nearby towns and cities.<br /><strong>Best Places to Visit: </strong>Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hidimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, and Old Manali are popular attractions in Manali.<br /><strong>Things to Do: </strong>Engage in adventure sports like paragliding, skiing, and river rafting in Solang Valley. Trek to picturesque villages like Malana and Tosh, or simply unwind amidst the serene surroundings.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh"><span data-til="noop">Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="6" msid="110031240" hostid="261" sizebytes="1988674" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Ancient monasteries and panoramic views await in the tranquil valleys of Tawang&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Tawang enthrals you with its pristine beauty and ancient monastic traditions. Accessed by air or adventurous road trips, it offers spiritual enlightenment at Tawang Monastery, breathtaking vistas from Sela Pass, and serene moments at Pankang Teng Tso Lake. The heroic tales at Jaswant Garh War Memorial and the cascading beauty of Nuranang Falls add to the region's allure, making it a haven for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.<br /><strong>How to Reach: </strong>The nearest airport is in Tezpur, Assam, approximately 317 kilometres away. From there, you can hire a cab or board a bus to Tawang. Alternatively, you can reach Tawang via road from Guwahati or Tezpur.<br /><strong>Best Places to Visit: </strong>Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Jaswant Garh War Memorial, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, and Nuranang Falls are some of the must-visit places.<br /><strong>Things to Do: </strong>Explore the ancient Tawang Monastery, witness the stunning vistas from Sela Pass, and visit war memorials to pay homage to the brave soldiers. Enjoy yak rides and savour local delicacies for an authentic experience.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Keylong, Himachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Keylong, Himachal Pradesh"><span data-til="noop">Keylong, Himachal Pradesh</span></cmsannotation><br />  <div type="image" title="7" msid="110031220" hostid="261" sizebytes="2055103" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Snow-capped peaks and serene valleys offer a tranquil escape in Keylong&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Situated in the rugged terrain of Himachal Pradesh, Keylong welcomes you with its serene beauty. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys, it offers a tranquil escape from the summer heat. Chandratal Lake's shimmering waters, the ancient charm of Kardang and Shashur Monasteries, and the adventurous allure of Baralacha Pass beckon travellers to explore this hidden gem. Keylong's pristine landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it an idyllic destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.<br /><strong>How to Reach: </strong>Keylong is accessible by road, and the nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, approximately 180 kilometres away. Keylong can be reached by driving from Manali via the Manali-Leh Highway.<br /><strong>Best Places to Visit: </strong>Surrounded by towering mountains and lush green valleys, Keylong offers a serene ambience. Chandratal Lake, Kardang Monastery, Shashur Monastery, and Baralacha Pass are among the prominent attractions.<br /><strong>Things to Do: </strong>Explore the captivating beauty of Chandratal Lake, embark on treks to nearby villages, and visit ancient monasteries to experience the region's cultural heritage. Enjoy camping under the starlit sky and relish local delicacies for a wholesome experience.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand" comment="subhead" text="Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand"><span data-til="noop"><keyword id="20396441" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Pithoragarh" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Pithoragarh" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Pithoragarh">Pithoragarh</keyword>, Uttarakhand</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="8" msid="110031208" hostid="261" sizebytes="1955333" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Majestic Himalayan landscapes and ancient temples await in the picturesque town of Pithoragarh&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas, Pithoragarh exudes an aura of mystique and tranquillity. Blessed with breathtaking vistas and historical landmarks, it offers you a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Explore the wilderness of Askot Sanctuary, delve into the ancient history at Pithoragarh Fort, or seek solace at the sacred Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple. Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple's mystical chambers add to the region's spiritual allure while trekking trails and birdwatching spots beckon adventurers and nature lovers to uncover the treasures of this Himalayan paradise.<br /><strong>How to Reach: </strong>Pithoragarh is well-connected by road, and the nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 200 kilometres away. Regular buses and taxis ply from nearby cities like Haldwani and Almora.<br /><strong>Best Places to Visit: </strong>Pithoragarh is renowned for its scenic beauty and historical significance. Visit Askot Sanctuary, Pithoragarh Fort, Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple, and Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple for a memorable experience.<br /><strong>Things to Do: </strong>Explore the rich biodiversity of Askot Sanctuary, witness panoramic views of the Himalayas from Pithoragarh Fort, and seek spiritual solace at ancient temples. Trekking, birdwatching, and nature walks are popular activities in the region.<br /><br />These cold destinations offer a perfect escape from the scorching heat of summer, providing a refreshing retreat amidst nature's bounty. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural exploration, or simply tranquillity, these places in India have something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags, embark on a journey, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of these captivating destinations.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions"><span data-til="noop">Frequently asked questions</span></cmsannotation><br /><strong>1. What is the best time to visit Ladakh?</strong><br />Ladakh is best visited during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and roads are accessible. However, some adventurous travellers also visit during winter to experience the magical frozen landscapes and unique winter festivals.<br /><br /><strong>2. Are there any altitude sickness concerns when travelling to Shimla?</strong><br />While Shimla itself is not at a very high altitude, some visitors may experience mild altitude sickness, especially if coming from lower altitudes. It's advisable to take it easy for the first day, stay hydrated, and avoid heavy meals. If symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is recommended.<br /><br /><strong>3. How can I travel to Darjeeling from Bagdogra Airport?</strong><br />From Bagdogra Airport, travellers can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Darjeeling, which is approximately a 3-4 hour drive depending on road conditions. Alternatively, one can take a pre-booked private transfer or opt for a scenic train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station.<br /><br /><strong>4. What adventure activities are available in Manali during May?</strong><br />In May, visitors to Manali can indulge in a variety of adventure activities including paragliding, river rafting, trekking, and zorbing in Solang Valley. The weather is ideal for outdoor adventures, and several local adventure operators offer guided tours and equipment rental services.<br /><br />SEE ALSO:<br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/webstories/10-breathtaking-indian-islands-to-visit-this-summer/slidelist/109952791.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Most beautiful islands to visit in India in summer</a><br />

7 cold destinations in India to escape the summer heat in May

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Cassandra De Pecol beat 2 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/woman-cassie-de-pecol-connecticut-world-record-visit-every-country-fastest-time-a7577286.html">Guinness World </a>Records for fastest time to visit all sovereign countries.</li><li>She chooses the most beautiful based on the countries that bring her the most solace.</li></ul><p>By age 27, I completed my wanderlust dream of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/visited-went-to-every-country-in-the-world-favorites-2023-11">traveling to 193 sovereign countries as a solo female traveler</a>, earning two Guinness World Records. I cleared the record for "fastest time to visit all sovereign countries" and "fastest time to visit all sovereign countries (female)." Guinness required I traveled to 196 countries total, all 193 sovereign plus Taiwan, Kosovo, and Palestine. It took 18 months and 10 days. By 30, I achieved another dream of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-train-for-a-race-like-ironman-2016-6?_gl=1*mm0b9j*_ga*OTAwMzE2MTUzLjE3MDEwOTQ0MzI.*_ga_E21CV80ZCZ*MTcwMTQ0MjEyMy4xNC4xLjE3MDE0NDIzODIuNjAuMC4w"><u>becoming an Ironman</u></a>. I find great fulfillment in inspiring and educating young women to get out there and pursue their passions, whatever they are.</p><p>I adore places that bring peace and serenity through nature and culture. When I think of the most beautiful places on this planet, I gravitate toward countries that have otherworldly landscapes, mountains, forests, open spaces, and beaches, and those that brought me solace while I was there. Those are the places I wish to go when I'm stressed because I know they'll bring me peace. These are my picks for the 11 most beautiful countries I've been to.</p><h2><strong>1. Mongolia</strong></h2><div type="image" title="Woman with dog in Mongolia" height="691" width="1038" msid="105754983" hostid="261" sizebytes="147180"></div><p>I spent my 27th birthday in Mongolia. At the time, I was rushing around the world to break a world record for travel, but I felt burned out. I wanted nothing more than to immerse myself in a place with no cell reception or WiFi.</p><p>I set up camp in the Tuul River valley, in the Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area, one of Mongolia's authentic wilderness regions that stretches to the Russian border.</p><p>Every morning, I woke up to the sun rising over the steep valleys. Each day, I'd go out exploring the riverbank, larch forests, and lush meadows. I roamed mostly alone, except for a friendly husky who followed me everywhere.</p><p>I milked cows with a local family, rode a yak and wild horses, and fell asleep under the stars. It was heaven on earth, and there was never a moment I missed the internet or cell reception. </p><h2><br /><strong>2. Switzerland</strong></h2><div type="image" title="Woman hiking in the mountains." height="1414" width="2121" msid="105754985" hostid="261" sizebytes="506082"></div><p>Switzerland boasts remote and vast beauty, and its culture only adds to the allure. Every time I visit Switzerland, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/swiss-alps-visiting-in-fall-recommendations-offseason-2023-11"><u>I head straight to the mountains</u></a> — give me mountains and I'm happy. Not only are they breathtaking regardless of season, but the villages scattered among them add a charm and homey feeling that's always left me feeling positive.</p><p>The lakes are crisp, the food is fresh, the people are kind, and the air is clean. Whenever I'm in Switzerland, I hike to the highest peak I can and share the space with free-roaming cows and goats, who also seem to relish the natural beauty of the mountains.</p><h2><strong>3. Canada </strong></h2><div type="image" title="Kayaking in Canada" height="1414" width="2121" msid="105754987" hostid="261" sizebytes="397582"></div><p>My mom is from Toronto, and Canada is the first country outside the US I ever visited, and it stands out for its abundant beauty.</p><p>From the French-influenced cultural richness of Quebec to the coastal allure of Vancouver, my experiences in Canada have always been extraordinary. The warmth and kindness of the people I've met whenever I visit never fails to impress me. </p><p>Among the countless breathtaking locations, the Rockies, with their awe-inspiring peaks and pristine lakes and glaciers, remain my favorite. Just before the pandemic hit in 2020, I was able to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/why-go-to-banff-canada-things-to-do-2023"><u>explore Banff</u></a>, a town in Alberta, with my feline companion, Kishmere. I really love the town for its vast mountain ranges and pristine lakes.</p><h2><br /><strong>4. Dominica</strong></h2><div type="image" title="Woman kayaking" height="404" width="750" msid="105754988" hostid="261" sizebytes="64882"></div><p>While often overlooked <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-caribbean-island-for-every-traveler-2017-3"><u>among Caribbean destinations</u></a> such as the Bahamas and St. Lucia, Dominica is undoubtedly a gem. My stay in a stunning boutique lodge allowed me to take daily hikes down to the beach, where I kayaked through picturesque coves. But the island's allure extends far beyond its beautiful beaches. It encompasses lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic volcanic landscapes that contribute to the natural beauty. </p><p>I love the island's commitment to sustainability, and I encountered nothing but kind locals while there. It's a place on my bucket list I am eager to revisit.</p><h2><br /><strong>5. United States</strong></h2><div type="image" title="Hawaii landscape photo" height="1414" width="2121" msid="105754991" hostid="261" sizebytes="317864"></div><p>The beauty of the United States and its territories never ceases to amaze me. Whether it's reveling in the vibrant fall foliage of the Northeast, exploring the lush rainforests of Hawaii and Puerto Rico, snorkeling in Guam, or marveling at the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-to-do-alaska-2017-3"><u>grandeur of Alaskan glaciers</u></a> and volcanoes, there's something for everyone here.</p><p>What I find special is that each season holds its own allure. I love <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/drone-footage-of-vermont-in-fall-2015-10"><u>Vermont in the autumn</u></a> for picturesque leaf peeping, the Colorado mountains in the winter for skiing, and the deserts of Arizona, California, and Utah for road-tripping during the spring.</p><h2><strong>6. Maldives</strong></h2><div type="image" title="Maldives" height="682" width="1024" msid="105754995" hostid="261" sizebytes="96064"></div><p>The Maldives holds a special place in my top beautiful-destinations list. Not only does it have <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/the-maldives-islands-main-attractions-2013-2"><u>breathtaking beach settings</u></a> adorned with pristine sandbanks, mesmerizing sunsets, and crystal-clear waters, but it also has a conscientious commitment to sustainability.</p><p>It's a standout choice for people seeking beauty and those who care about the environment. <br /></p><h2><strong>7. Costa Rica</strong></h2><div type="image" title="Woman in Costa Rica" height="973" width="769" msid="105755257" hostid="261" sizebytes="194530"></div><p>I could go back to Costa Rica time and time again because of its incredible natural allure, including active volcanoes, towering waterfalls, beautiful beaches, breathtaking cloud forests and rainforests; and — one of my favorite animals — monkeys, and toucans. </p><p>During the first six months of college, I spent my time in a city within the Puerto Limon district, which is where I stayed with a host family when I was 18. More recently, I explored the Gulf of Papagayo, a body of water in the Guanacaste province off the northwestern coast of Costa Rica. Each region was so different, with the east coast offering a more laid-back feel and the west coast exuding a touch of luxury. </p><p>While I cherished both experiences, the combination of these two elements is what I think makes Costa Rica magical.</p><h2><strong>8. Peru</strong></h2><div type="image" title="Peru" height="3147" width="4720" msid="105755259" hostid="261" sizebytes="2011492"></div><p>Peru stands out to me as one of South America's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/trip-to-peru-experience-2018-1"><u>most captivating and enchanting countries</u></a> — from the Andes' majestic peaks to the ancient marvels of Machu Picchu — where I spent my 22nd birthday — to the Amazon's rich heritage embedded in the Amazon rainforest create a unique and enchanting appeal. </p><p>After spending a couple months exploring the country, every return visit leaves me on a high from the extraordinary wonder that sets Peru apart, making its allure unparalleled.</p><h2><strong>9. New Zealand</strong></h2><div type="image" title="New Zealand mountains" height="683" width="1024" msid="105755260" hostid="261" sizebytes="53030"></div><p>During my <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/new-zealand-things-to-do-auckland-queenstown-2023-2"><u>brief visit to New Zealand</u></a>, I enjoyed the warm hospitality of Auckland — the most populated city in New Zealand — marveled at the stunning fjords, skied in white-out conditions, and took leisurely strolls along the captivating harbor of Queenstown. </p><p>The country's beauty is breathtaking with lush green landscapes that seem to stretch endlessly and pristine lakes reflecting the surrounding mountains. Every part of New Zealand feels like a snapshot from a dream, with its vivid, awe-inspiring scenery. </p><p>Each moment in this captivating country is filled with the imprint of its unparalleled beauty.</p><h2><br /><strong>10. Jordan </strong></h2><div type="image" title="Woman in Jordan" height="937" width="942" msid="105755262" hostid="261" sizebytes="81774"></div><p>If you're looking for a treasure trove of ancient wonders, Jordan is the place. Though my visit lasted just a couple of days, every moment was filled to the brim, wandering the spellbinding city of Petra and Amman's ancient streets and exploring scattered ruins.</p><p>Jordan had me hooked from the get-go. Wadi Rum, a protected area and UNESCO World Heritage site I didn't get a chance to visit, is said to be otherworldly and it's become another addition to my bucket list. </p><h2>11. South Africa</h2><div type="image" title="Cape Town, South Africa" height="586" width="1024" msid="105755263" hostid="261" sizebytes="83710"></div><p>Over the last 10 years, I've been lucky enough to travel to South Africa for various reasons: a race, a convention, and my 196-country expedition. <a target="_blank" href="https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/ranking-the-top-african-cities-where-most-people-want-to-live-work-and-invest/5gc2096">Cape Town, the capital of South Africa</a>, located along the coast with its harmonious blend of mountains and sea, resonated deeply with my Californian soul.</p><p>It was a bridge between  my love for vast mountains and beaches. The very first time I visited Africa, the Cape of Good Hope,(located along the Atlantic  coast of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa), was the first bit of awe I'd experienced. I was totally taken aback by its roaring significance with the rough seas situated right nearby to peaceful penguins roaming the white sand beaches. </p><p>Also, racing an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ironman.com/news_article/show/1041705">Ironman 70.3</a> for eight hours in this beautiful city left room for lots of thoughts about what I love most about South Africa as a whole.</p><h2><strong>Each destination has left its unique mark on my travel journey</strong></h2><p>Whether it was finding solitude in Mongolia, enjoying Switzerland's alpine villages, or immersing myself in the historical ruins of Petra in Jordan, these experiences have fostered in me a profound appreciation for the world's natural wonders and cultural diversity.</p>

I earned a Guinness World Record for visiting all 193 countries alone. Here are my picks for 11 most beautiful countries in the world.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>The <keyword id="685666" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="Soviet-navy">Soviet navy</keyword> was never known for its <keyword id="413144" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Aircraft-carriers">aircraft carriers</keyword>, and the few it operated weren't meant for the same kind of operations as their US counterparts.</li><li>While those carriers didn't do much for the Soviets, a few of them have lived on and are now important naval assets for two of the world's biggest military powers.</li></ul><p>After World War II, there was no question that aircraft carriers were the dominant naval asset.</p><p>American, British, and Japanese carriers were decisive in the largest naval battles of the war, and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/history-of-us-navy-aircraft-carriers-supercarriers-to-ford-class-2020-10" target="_top">the US's dominance in carrier development</a> during the Cold War solidified their importance.</p><p>Soviet carriers, on the other hand, have received much less attention.</p><p>In all, seven carriers from three different classes served in the Soviet Navy between 1967 and 1991. Unlike their Western counterparts, Soviet carriers were not designed to support long-range offensive operations. Rather, they were meant to be defensive surface combatants and relied on their massive missile inventory more than their aircraft.</p><h2>The classes</h2><div type="image" title="Russia Soviet aircraft carrier Leningrad" height="950" width="1266" msid="79848438" hostid="261"></div><p>Soviet naval officials had long wanted a carrier in their inventory, but Soviet leaders chose to prioritize the army and air force instead.</p><p>At least five different carrier projects were proposed or canceled between 1927 and the completion of the first carrier in 1965. That carrier, commissioned in 1967, was one of two Moskva-class helicopter carriers.</p><p>The vessels were intended to hunt nuclear submarines and did not have long flight decks for fixed-wing aircraft. Instead, their air wings were made up of 14 helicopters, primarily Kamov Ka-25s or Ka-27s.</p><p>The Moskvas were followed eight years later by the first real carriers - the Kiev-class. The Kievs featured an angled flight deck and an air wing of 12 helicopters and 12 <a href="https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/russias-yak-38-fighter-the-failed-jump-jet-helped-inspire-19320" target="_top">Yak-38</a> vertical take-off and landing fighters. Four Kiev-class carriers were built, the last commissioned in 1987.</p><p>The Kuznetsov-class was the last class, and only one was completed before the dissolution of the <keyword id="6365126" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="soviet-union">Soviet Union</keyword>. <keyword id="3767269" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Admiral-Kuznetsov">Admiral Kuznetsov</keyword> featured a ski-jump and an angled flight deck. Its air wing comprised 18 Su-33 fighters and 12 helicopters.</p><h2>Armed to the teeth - with missiles</h2><div type="image" title="Russia Soviet aircraft carrier Leningrad" height="1091" width="1455" msid="79848439" hostid="261"></div><p>Soviet carriers had much smaller air wings than their NATO counterparts, This was by design, as their primary armament was their massive missile arsenals.</p><p>As they were intended for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and submarine-support, both Moskva-class carriers had one <a href="http://militaryrussia.ru/blog/topic-365.html" target="_top">RPK-1 Vikhr</a> system capable of launching two FRAS-1 nuclear anti-submarine missiles, each of which had a yield up to 10 kilotons and could detonate some 650 feet below the surface. They were stored in a rotating magazine that held eight missiles.</p><p>Moskva-class carriers were also armed with two RBU-6000 anti-submarine rocket launchers and 48 anti-air missiles that could be launched from two twin M-11 Shtorm launchers.</p><p>The first three Kiev-class carriers had an RPK-1 Vikhr system with 16 FRAS-1 missiles. They were also armed with eight <a href="https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/missile-threat-and-proliferation/todays-missile-threat/russia/ss-n-12-sandbox/" target="_top">P-500 Bazalt</a> supersonic cruise missiles in four twin launchers. With a range of over 300 miles, these missiles could be armed with a 2,000-pound conventional warhead or a 350-kiloton nuclear one. Over 100 anti-aircraft missiles made up their air defense.</p><div type="image" title="Russia Soviet Minsk aircraft carrier" height="889" width="2000" msid="79848440" hostid="261"></div><p>The last Kiev-class ship, Baku (later renamed Admiral Gorshkov), carried 12 P-500s, almost 200 anti-air missiles, two RBU-6000 launchers, and two 100 mm guns.</p><p>The final carrier, Admiral Kuznetsov, was armed with 12 radar-guided <a href="https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/missile-threat-and-proliferation/todays-missile-threat/russia/p-700-granit-ss-n-19-shipwreck/" target="_top">P-700 Granit</a> anti-ship cruise missiles in vertical launchers just in front of the ski-jump on its bow. With a range of almost 400 miles, Granit missiles could carry a 1,600-pound warhead or a 350-kiloton nuclear one. The carrier also had 190 anti-aircraft missiles and one UDAV-1 anti-submarine rocket launcher.</p><p>The weaponry fit squarely within Soviet Navy defensive doctrine, which was to destroy US surface ships - especially carriers - in engagements in Soviet home waters. The missiles also allowed the Soviet Union to send its carriers on operations abroad.</p><p>All Soviet carriers were built in what is now Ukraine and had to pass through the Turkish Straits to go anywhere. The <a href="https://cil.nus.edu.sg/wp-content/uploads/formidable/18/1936-Convention-Regarding-the-Regime-of-the-Straits.pdf" target="_top">1936 Montreux Convention</a> prevented carriers from passing, but the Soviet designation of "heavy aircraft carrying cruiser" was an acceptable loophole for Turkey.</p><h2>Post-Soviet life</h2><div type="image" title="INS Vikramaditya" height="826" width="1240" msid="79848441" hostid="261"></div><p>Soviet carriers made a number of overseas trips and participated in a few exercises but never saw action. Admiral Kuznetsov was plagued with problems - so much so that it was always accompanied by a cargo ship with extra pipes for repairs, as well as a special <a href="https://foxtrotalpha.jalopnik.com/you-may-puke-watching-this-tug-boat-attempt-to-tow-russ-1742392802" target="_top">tugboat</a> in case of breakdowns.</p><p>All carriers except Admiral Kuznetsov were decommissioned between 1991 and 1996. Two Kiev-class carriers (Kiev and Minsk) were eventually sold to Chinese companies and became a <a href="https://www.wired.com/2011/12/china-aircraft-carrier-hotel/" target="_top">hotel</a> and <a href="https://www.visionsoftravel.org/minsk-world-military-park-shenzhen/" target="_top">museum</a> respectively.</p><p>Admiral Gorshkov was sold to India in 2004. After a <a href="https://nationalinterest.org/blog/reboot/india-would-love-return-aircraft-carrier-it-bought-russia-164194" target="_top">painfully long major refit</a> that included adding a ski-jump and proper flight deck, it was commissioned into the Indian Navy as INS <keyword id="171280" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Vikramaditya">Vikramaditya</keyword> in 2013. The Vikramaditya's air wing is made up of 26 Russian-made MiG-29K fighters.</p><div type="image" title="Liaoning Aircraft Carrier" height="613" width="1240" msid="79848442" hostid="261"></div><p>In 1998, Admiral Kuznetsov's unfinished sister ship, Varyag, was sold to China in a <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/1779703/unlucky-guy-tasked-buying-chinas-aircraft-carrier-xu" target="_top">shady deal</a> to supposedly turn the carrier into a casino. After a massive refit that involved removing its missile launchers, it was commissioned into the Chinese Navy as the <a href="https://chinapower.csis.org/aircraft-carrier/" target="_top">Liaoning</a> in 2012, becoming China's first aircraft carrier.</p><p>Now considered an entirely new class (dubbed the Type 001), <keyword id="265798" type="CITY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Liaoning">Liaoning</keyword>'s air wing is made up of 24 J-15 fighters - Chinese copies of the Russian Su-33 - and 16 helicopters.</p><p>Seven years later, China commissioned a slightly larger second carrier in a spinoff class (dubbed the Type 002) called the <a href="https://chinapower.csis.org/china-aircraft-carrier-type-001a/" target="_top">Shandong</a>. Its larger size means it can fit more aircraft.</p><p>Unlike their Soviet predecessors, the Chinese carriers are intended to operate <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-chinas-aircraft-carriers-compare-to-us-navy-flattops-2020-10" target="_blank" rel="noopener">more like their American counterparts</a>, focusing on offensive operations with their air wings.</p><h2>A problem child</h2><div type="image" title="admiral Kuznetsov" height="1141" width="1701" msid="79848444" hostid="261"></div><p>Admiral Kuznetsov, Russia's only aircraft carrier, continues to be a problem for the <keyword id="46942" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="Russian-Navy">Russian Navy</keyword>.</p><p>During its only combat deployment in 2016 to Syria, Kuznetsov's aircraft conducted 420 sorties, but two aircraft were lost because of issues with the carrier's arresting cables, which forced the entire air wing to be <a href="https://www.defenseworld.net/news/17876/Russian_Combat_Jets_To_Operate_From_Syria_Airbase_Following_Carrier_Landing_Malfunction#.WEdGaFKsBZE" target="_top">transferred</a> to one of Russia's air bases inland in order to continue conducting airstrikes.</p><p>The carrier has been going through a refit since 2017 that is intended to extend its life for at least another two decades. The refit is expected to remove its missile silos, give the ship a new suite of electronics and anti-aircraft systems, and enable it to carry 50 aircraft.</p><p>But the refit has also had problems. In 2018, the floating dry dock holding the ships <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-46030113" target="_top">sank</a>, and a 70-ton crane crashed into the flight deck. A year later, a major fire <a href="https://news.yahoo.com/death-toll-aircraft-carrier-fire-133530727.html" target="_top">broke out</a> aboard, killing two workers and injuring at least 11 more.</p><p>The refit continues, however, and Russian sources <a href="https://tass.com/defense/1231271" target="_top">say</a> the carrier will undergo sea trials in 2022.</p>

The Soviet Union is long gone, but its aircraft carriers live on

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="6358826" type="LOCATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="Russia">Russia</keyword>'s only <keyword id="42406" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="aircraft-carrier">aircraft carrier</keyword>, <keyword id="3767269" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Admiral-Kuznetsov">Admiral Kuznetsov</keyword>, has been plagued by breakdowns and mishaps.</li><li>Despite those problems and broader changes to its navy, Russia is committed to Admiral Kuznetsov's future.</li></ul><p>Perhaps no aircraft carrier has been as mocked or as troubled as Admiral Kuznetsov, Russia's only carrier and the sole ship of it class.</p><p>Meant to usher in a new era for Soviet naval aviation, it was armed to the teeth and featured new fixed-wing aircraft. But it became clear almost immediately that Admiral Kuznetsov would not live up to expectations.</p><p>Constant mechanical issues and breakdowns, combined with a lack of resources and poor facilities, have seriously affected its ability to rival its NATO counterparts, and its only combat deployment was far from perfect.</p><p>All of these issues mean Admiral Kuznetsov is seen more as a spectacle than a genuine threat, but it remains the <keyword id="46942" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="Russian-Navy">Russian Navy</keyword>'s flagship, and Moscow is determined to hold on to it, with sea trials <a href="https://tass.com/defense/1231271" target="_blank" rel="noopener">set for 2022</a>, according to Russian state media.</p><h2>An interesting history</h2><div type="image" title="admiral Kuznetsov" height="1141" width="1701" msid="82147230" hostid="261"></div><p>Admiral Kuznetsov has an interesting history to say the least.</p><p>Originally named "Riga," it was launched in 1985 as "Leonid Brezhnev," started sea trials as "Tbilisi," and commissioned officially as "Admiral of the Fleet of the Soviet Union Kuznetsov" in 1990.</p><p>In many ways, it was supposed to be the Soviet Union's first real carrier. Previous classes could only carry Ka-27 or Ka-31 helicopters or the <a href="https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/russias-yak-38-fighter-the-failed-jump-jet-helped-inspire-19320" target="_top">Yak-38</a> vertical take-off and landing fighter. The Kuznetsov, on the other hand, had an air wing of new <a href="https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/why-russias-sukhoi-su-33-fighter-was-failure-171911" target="_top">Sukhoi Su-33</a> fighters and Su-25UTGs, in addition to helicopters.</p><p>The jets would have taken off from a ski-jump ramp, another first for the Soviet Navy. One thing it did have in common with <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/soviet-union-aircraft-carriers-are-still-influencing-other-navies-2020-12" target="_top">other Soviet carriers was a massive missile armament</a>: 12 radar-guided P-700 Granit anti-ship cruise missiles and 190 anti-aircraft missiles.</p><p>Because of the collapse of the USSR, Admiral Kuznetsov was not fully operational until 1995.</p><p>Its sister ship, Varyag, was <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/1779703/unlucky-guy-tasked-buying-chinas-aircraft-carrier-xu" target="_top">sold</a> to a Chinese businessman in 1998 ostensibly to be turned into a casino. That vessel became the <a href="https://chinapower.csis.org/aircraft-carrier/" target="_top">Liaoning</a>, China's first aircraft carrier, and the blueprint for its second, the <a href="https://chinapower.csis.org/china-aircraft-carrier-type-001a/" target="_top">Shandong</a>.</p><h2>Constant breakdowns</h2><div type="image" title="Russia aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov dry dock Murmansk" height="1334" width="2000" msid="82147231" hostid="261"></div><p>Since joining the Northern Fleet in 1991, Admiral Kuznetsov has become known for breakdowns and malfunctions.</p><p>While off the coast of Turkey in January 2009, it <a href="https://twitter.com/ukdefjournal/status/1081864089398398977?lang=en" target="_top">suffered a fire</a> that killed a crew member. A month later it was involved in an <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna29433203" target="_top">oil spill</a> off the coast of Ireland that leaked an estimated 300 metric tons of oil into the ocean.</p><p>The carrier has undergone extended repair periods in port multiple times. Breakdowns and accidents happened so often that the carrier had to be followed by a tanker loaded with extra pipes for repairs. It was also known to have an <a href="https://foxtrotalpha.jalopnik.com/you-may-puke-watching-this-tug-boat-attempt-to-tow-russ-1742392802" target="_top">ocean-going tug trailing it</a> whenever it set out.</p><p>Despite the numerous pit stops, it was still seen <a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/first-sight-massive-russian-aircraft-9094290" target="_top">belching massive clouds of smoke</a> as it sailed to Syria in 2016 for its <a href="https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2017/02/10/russias-syrian-naval-deployment-the-unofficial-post-action-report-a57116" target="_top">only combat deployment</a>, during which more mishaps occurred.</p><p>Two jets, an Su-33 and a MiG-29K, crashed into the water because the carrier's arresting cable kept snapping during landings. The problem forced the rest of the carrier's air wing to be <a href="https://www.defenseworld.net/news/17876/Russian_Combat_Jets_To_Operate_From_Syria_Airbase_Following_Carrier_Landing_Malfunction#.YHZciqySk2y" target="_top">transferred</a> to the Hmeymim airbase.</p><p>British Defense Secretary Sir Michael Fallon <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2017/01/25/europe/britain-russia-aircraft-carrier/index.html" target="_top">called</a> the Admiral Kuznetsov "a ship of shame" as it returned to Russia following the deployment.</p><h2>'The unluckiest ship'</h2><div type="image" title="Russia aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov fire" height="1194" width="2000" msid="82147232" hostid="261"></div><p>After returning from Syria, Admiral Kuznetsov began an overhaul and modernization to extend its service life. Unable to use the Ukrainian shipyards where it was built, it is being refit in Murmansk.</p><p>Even in port, Admiral Kuznetsov's troubles have continued. In 2018, the floating drydock holding the carrier <a href="https://thebarentsobserver.com/en/security/2018/10/aircraft-carrier-damaged-dry-dock-sinks" target="_top">sank</a>, sending a 70-ton crane smashing through the flight deck.</p><p>The incident killed one worker, injured four more, and left a large hole on the deck. The loss of the floating drydock <a href="https://rg.ru/2019/05/07/reg-szfo/murmansk-poluchit-samyj-krupnyj-v-rossii-suhoj-dok.html" target="_top">forced</a> the Russians to combine two smaller dry docks into a larger one in order to continue the work.</p><p>A year later, a fire <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/deadly-blaze-hits-admiral-kuznetsov-russias-only-aircraft-carrier/a-51650096" target="_top">broke out</a> while workers were welding in the engine room. Two people were killed and 11 more were injured.</p><p>More recently, the director of the shipyard overseeing the refit was <a href="https://tass.ru/proisshestviya/10952429" target="_top">arrested</a> and accused of stealing some 45 million rubles allocated to the carrier's repair.</p><p>Photos of a snow-covered Admiral Kuznetsov that emerged in January led a Russian think-tank <a href="https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/38724/russia-should-ditch-its-cursed-aircraft-carrier-and-focus-on-its-two-new-amphibious-assault-ships" target="_blank" rel="noopener">to estimate</a> that no progress had been made on the repairs over the past year.</p><p>"It's the unluckiest ship on the face of the planet," Jeffrey Edmonds, a research scientist at the Center for Naval Analysis, told Insider.</p><h2>Russia's future carrier</h2><div type="image" title="Russia aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov Vladimir Putin" height="1333" width="2000" msid="82147233" hostid="261"></div><p>Russia has invested a lot into modernizing Admiral Kuznetsov and maintaining some form of carrier capability.</p><p>The refit has increased the carrier's aircraft capacity to 24 to 26 fighter jets and as many as 12 helicopters. The current modifications will also upgrade the electronics and propulsion system and likely remove the P-700 missiles.</p><p>Russia has also put effort into <a href="https://thediplomat.com/2018/08/russias-aircraft-carrier-to-be-upgraded-to-carry-mig-29kkub-fighter-jets/" target="_top">replacing</a> or <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2019-04-10/su-33-begin-2nd-phase-upgrade-while-russia-mulls-carrier-options" target="_top">modernizing</a> the aging Su-33, as it is really only capable of aerial warfare with limited ground-attack options. The <a href="https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=1021" target="_top">MiG-29K</a>, a naval version of the MiG-29, is expected to have larger role in Russia's future carrier air wings. The carrier could also carry the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3wX8Il5NvM" target="_top">Ka-52K Katran</a> attack helicopter.</p><p>The time, effort, and expense show that the Russian Navy is not ready to give up on carriers.</p><p>"The Russians will continue to talk about carriers," Edmonds said, noting that at the very least the current efforts preserve some skills and know-how, "so that in such time when they actually have carriers, they can expand that out rather than reinventing the wheel."</p><p>Talk of building a brand-new carrier <a href="https://militarywatchmagazine.com/article/russia-set-to-make-final-decision-on-new-heavyweight-aircraft-carrier-design-putin-personally-examins-proposals" target="_top">is common</a>, and <a href="https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/02/russia-designs-a-new-class-of-ship-universal-sea-complex-varan/" target="_top">multiple designs</a> have been <a href="https://tass.com/defense/1057234" target="_top">put forward</a>.</p><div type="image" title="Russia aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov" height="1288" width="2000" msid="82147234" hostid="261"></div><p>But there is also debate in Russia over whether it's even worth it, central to which is the fact that Russia just has a poor track record of building carriers.</p><p>In addition to the Kuznetsov debacles, Russia's only other recent work on a carrier, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/soviet-union-aircraft-carriers-are-still-influencing-other-navies-2020-12" target="_top">converting</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/soviet-union-aircraft-carriers-are-still-influencing-other-navies-2020-12" target="_top"> the Kiev-class Admiral Gorshkov into the INS Vikramaditya</a> for the Indian Navy, was <a href="https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/all-reasons-why-india-hates-aircraft-carrier-it-bought-russia-92076" target="_top">marred</a> by cost overruns and missed deadlines.</p><p>While Russia is <a href="https://navalpost.com/zaliv-kerch-project-23900-udc-amphibous-assault-ship/" target="_top">building</a> two amphibious assault ships to replace the two French-built Mistral-class ships it never received, these are smaller than a carrier and will only carry helicopters and drones.</p><p>"The Russians will always have this aspirational talk about having a blue-water navy with carriers and stuff like that," Edmonds said. "But as far as having the capability, the infrastructure, the expertise to build one, that's a ways out."</p><p>Despite the problems, Russian officials have <a href="https://tass.com/defense/1231271" target="_blank" rel="noopener">insisted</a> that Admiral Kuznetsov will begin sea trials in 2022.</p><p>When fully operational, the carrier, like the Russian Navy's other legacy platforms, will likely be used to show the flag and demonstrate Russia's great naval power status - even as the fleet continues to <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russian-navy-betting-big-on-new-smaller-warships-with-missiles-2021-4" target="_top">shift its focus to small, missile-laden vessels and submarines</a>.</p>

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