New Delhi, Nov 5 (UNI) In a bid to bolster its hydrographic survey capabilities, the Indian Navy is all set to commission Ikshak during a ceremony slated to be held at Naval Base in Kochi tomorrow.
Ikshak, which is the third vessel of the Survey Vessel (Large) [SVL] class and the first to be based at the Southern Naval Command, will be commissioned into service by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi.
Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata, Ikshak embodies over 80 percent indigenous content, reflecting the collaborative synergy between GRSE and Indian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The name ‘Ikshak’, meaning ‘Guide’ in Sanskrit, defines the ship’s role as a sentinel of precision and purpose. The vessel is designed to undertake full-scale coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys of ports, harbours, and navigational channels. The data generated will be vital for ensuring safe navigation at sea, strengthening India’s maritime safety framework.
Equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic and oceanographic equipment, including a high-resolution multi-beam echo sounder, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and four Survey Motor Boats (SMBs), Ikshak brings unmatched versatility and capability to the Navy’s hydrographic fleet. The ship is also fitted with a helicopter deck, extending its operational reach and enabling multi-domain missions.
The commissioning of Ikshak marks a significant milestone in the Indian Navy’s ongoing efforts to augment its survey and charting infrastructure. As a symbol of indigenous strength, technical excellence, and maritime stewardship, Ikshak is ready to serve the nation, charting the unknown and safeguarding India’s vast maritime frontiers, a statement from the Navy said.
