Ikshak Survey Vessel: Indian Navy's New Guide for Maritime Excellence

The Indian Navy is set to commission its new survey vessel Ikshak in a ceremony chaired by CNS Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi. This indigenous vessel represents significant technological advancement with over 80% local content. Ikshak features dedicated accommodation for women crew members, marking a progressive step for naval operations. The ship's dual-role capability allows it to serve both survey missions and emergency humanitarian operations.

Key Points: CNS Admiral Tripathi to Commission Indigenous Survey Vessel Ikshak

  • Third SVL-class ship enhancing hydrographic survey capabilities with indigenous technology
  • First survey vessel with dedicated women's accommodation for inclusive crew
  • Built with over 80% indigenous content supporting Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative
  • Dual-role capability for disaster relief and hospital ship operations
  • Symbolizes maritime guidance with name meaning 'The Guide'
  • Strengthens collaboration between GRSE and Indian MSME partners
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CNS Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi to lead induction of survey vessel Ikshak

Indian Navy to commission Ikshak survey vessel with women's accommodation and 80% indigenous content, advancing maritime capabilities and self-reliance.

"Ikshak’s induction underscores the Indian Navy’s steadfast commitment to building advanced, state-of-the-art platforms - Official Statement"

New Delhi, Oct 27

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi will chair the ceremony for the formal commissioning of the indigenously built Survey Vessel (Large), Ikshak, at Naval Base Kochi on November 6, an official said on Monday.

As the third ship of her class, Ikshak’s induction underscores the Indian Navy’s steadfast commitment to building advanced, state-of-the-art platforms, furthering the momentum of capability enhancement and self-reliance — charting a new course in indigenous hydrographic excellence.

Ikshak is also the first SVL ship with dedicated accommodation for women, reflecting the Indian Navy’s inclusive and progressive approach towards a future-ready fleet.

Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, Kolkata, under the supervision of the Directorate of Ship Production and the Warship Overseeing Team (Kolkata), Ikshak embodies over 80 per cent indigenous content, said an official statement.

The vessel stands as a testament to the successful collaboration between GRSE and Indian MSMEs, proudly reflecting the spirit and strength of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Beyond her primary role of hydrographic survey operations, Ikshak is designed with dual-role capability, serving as a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) platform, and as a Hospital Ship during emergencies.

The ship’s name, Ikshak, meaning ‘The Guide’, aptly symbolises her mission — to chart the unknown, ensure safe passage for mariners, and strengthen India’s maritime power.

Last week, India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing gained fresh momentum with the Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) delivering Mahe, the first in a series of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), to the Indian Navy.

The vessel was formally handed over at a ceremony where the acceptance documents were signed between the CSL's Director Operations, Dr S. Harikrishnan, and Mahe's Commanding Officer-Designate, Commander Amit Chandra Choubey. The event was attended by Western Naval Command's Chief Staff Officer, Technical, Rear Admiral R. Adhisrinivasan, Superintendent, Warship Production, Kochi, Commodore Anup Menon and other senior naval and shipyard officials.

Indigenously designed and built by the CSL, Mahe has been constructed under the classification standards of Det Norske Veritas (DNV).

Measuring 78 metres in length, it is the largest Indian naval vessel powered by a diesel engine–waterjet propulsion system, a configuration that enhances speed, agility, and operational flexibility in shallow waters.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Over 80% indigenous content is impressive! This is exactly what Aatmanirbhar Bharat should look like. Hope we continue this momentum across all defence sectors.
A
Arjun K
The dual-role capability for HADR and hospital ship is brilliant planning. Our Navy is truly becoming a multi-role force ready for any contingency. Jai Hind! 🚢
S
Sarah B
While I appreciate the indigenous efforts, I hope the quality matches international standards. Sometimes we rush indigenous projects and compromise on reliability.
V
Vikram M
GRSE and Indian MSMEs deserve applause! This collaboration shows how our domestic industry can deliver world-class defence equipment. Make in India is working! 💪
K
Kavya N
The name 'Ikshak' meaning 'The Guide' is so meaningful. Our naval traditions and naming conventions always have such deep significance. Proud moment for India!
M
Michael C
Good to see continuous induction of new vessels. With China's increasing presence in Indian Ocean, we need to strengthen our naval capabilities rapidly.

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