Indian Navy to Commission ‘Ikshak’, Charting a New Course in Indigenous Hydrographic Excellence

IN NEWS:

Indian Navy to Commission ‘Ikshak’, Charting a New Course in Indigenous Hydrographic Excellence

Analysis:

1. Purpose and Role of Ikshak:
   • Ikshak is the third vessel of the Survey Vessel (Large) [SVL] class and the first to be based at the Southern Naval Command.
   • The vessel is designed for full-scale coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys of ports, harbours, and navigational channels.
   • It will provide critical data to ensure safe navigation and strengthen India’s maritime safety framework.
2. Indigenous Content and Self-Reliance:
   • Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata, with over 80% indigenous content.
   • The project reflects the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and collaboration with Indian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
   • Demonstrates India’s growing self-reliance in shipbuilding.
3. Equipment and Capabilities:
   • Equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic and oceanographic tools:
     • High-resolution multi-beam echo sounder
     • Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)
     • Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)
     • Four Survey Motor Boats (SMBs)
   • Fitted with a helicopter deck to extend operational reach and enable multi-domain missions.
   • Enhances versatility and capability of the Navy’s hydrographic fleet.
4. Strategic Significance:
   • Commissioning marks a milestone in augmenting India’s survey and charting infrastructure.
   • Symbolizes technical excellence, indigenous strength, and maritime stewardship.
   • Supports India’s broader maritime security and safe navigation objectives.

Static/Background Information:

• Name Significance: ‘Ikshak’ in Sanskrit means ‘Guide’, reflecting its role in precision hydrography.
• Commissioning Ceremony: To be held at Naval Base, Kochi on 06 Nov 2025 in the presence of Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff.
• Shipbuilder: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd., Kolkata.
• Class: Survey Vessel (Large) [SVL].
• Indigenous Content: Over 80%.
• Key Equipment: Multi-beam echo sounder, AUV, ROV, SMBs, helicopter deck.

Updated: 05 Nov 2025; 10:53 AM | PIB Delhi Source:PIB