Navy officer killed in fire on board the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya

A naval officer was killed in a fire on board India's aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya on April 26. The fire did not result in any serious damage to the frontline warship, according to the Navy.

Lt Commander DS Chauhan

The incident occurred when the carrier was entering harbour in Karwar on India's western seaboard. The officer, who was leading the effort to put out the fire, has been identified as Lt Commander DS Chauhan.

"The fire was brought under control by the ship's crew in a swift action preventing any serious damage affecting the ship's combat capability," the Indian Navy stated in a press release.

"Lt Commander DS Chauhan bravely led the firefighting efforts in the affected compartment. Whilst the fire was brought under control, the officer suffered loss of consciousness owing to the smoke and fumes during the firefighting efforts. He was immediately evacuated to the Naval Hospital at Karwar, INHS Patanjali for medical attention. However, the officer could not be revived," the Naval statement added.

A Board of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the circumstances of the incident.