Kochi (Kerala), Feb 28 : Defence Minister A. K. Antony on Saturday expressed the hope that India will operate two to three aircraft carriers simultaneously in near future in order to ward off threats from terrorism and low intensity conflict perpetrated by state with help of non state actors.

"We are living in a world of uncertainty, conflict, threats from maritime terrorism, piracy, narcotics, smuggling and low-intensity conflict, perpetrated by state in some cases and with non-state players in others, are on the rise," Antony said.

Speaking on the occasion of the keeling of the country's first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) at a ceremony at the Cochin Shipyard in Kochi today, Antony hoped the country would operate two to three aircraft carriers simultaneously in the not too distant future.

The first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) is to be completed by 2014, which will make India only the fourth nation in the world to have the capability of designing and building a 40,000 ton plus aircraft carrier.

Addressing his last official function before general elections, which are likely to be scheduled April-May, Antony said the Indian Navy has proved that it can design a world-class aircraft carrier.

He urged the Navy to take the lead in safeguarding the vital needs of the nation, and added that the IAC is a step ahead in this direction.

The IAC project will also reflect on the industrial growth of Kerala, putting the state on the defence map of India, Antony said. (ANI)