INS Ikshak, based at the Southern Naval Command, will be a strategic asset for India in mapping ports, harbours and maritime routes along its blue borders, which is a prerequisite for both commercial shipping and defence.The Indian Navy is scheduled to commission the indigenously built survey vessel large (SVL), INS Ikshak, at Naval Base Kochi on November 6. The Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, will preside over the commissioning event.
INS Ikshak, built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE), Kolkata, has over 80% indigenous content, marking a significant milestone for the nation's shipbuilding programme under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' scheme. The name, Ikshak, translates to "Guide" in Sanskrit.
The vessel has been designed to be a vital component of India's hydrographic survey capabilities, enabling operations in both deep water and along the coast.
The cooperative strategy of defence production in India is well demonstrated by the partnership of Indian MSMEs with GRSE. Moreover, INS Ikshak has been designed for the airborne missions and long-duration operations with the availability of a helicopter deck and long range on board.
Ikshak is dedicated to improving maritime safety and the Navy's charting infrastructure with an advanced suite of hydrographic and oceanographic systems, including four Survey Motor Boats (SMBs), an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and a high-resolution multi-beam echo sounder. Additionally, the ship has a helicopter deck, which increases its capability for multi-domain missions.
The commissioning of INS Ikshak represents a major advancement in the Navy's charting and surveying capabilities. The ship, which is the third in the Survey Vessel (Large) class after its sister ships, demonstrates the Navy's dedication to improving marine domain awareness and expanding domestic shipbuilding capability.
INS Ikshak, based at the Southern Naval Command, will be a strategic asset for India in mapping ports, harbours and maritime routes along its blue borders, which is a prerequisite for both commercial shipping and defence. Such hydrographic data will enhance India's undersea domain expertise and will be quite helpful in issuing navigation safety frameworks.
However, the survey vessel is not limited to just the hydrographic function. The Navy's multi-role operating doctrine is reflected in the ship's capability of being used for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) as well as conversion into a hospital ship in case of an emergency.
The ship is the first to have specially designed accommodation for female staff, thus recognising the Navy's efforts in promoting gender diversity and inclusiveness.
By adding Ikshak to the fleet, the Indian Navy is advancing its cutting-edge survey capabilities and paving the way for a modern, independent maritime force.