Indian Navy To Enhance Hydrographic Survey Strength With Commissioning Of INS Ikshak

The Indian Navy will commission INS Ikshak, the third vessel of the Survey Vessel (Large) [SVL] class, at a ceremony to be held at Naval Base Kochi on Thursday (6 November).

The event will be presided over by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi.

Built by Kolkata-based Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, Ikshak represents a major achievement in India’s drive toward self-reliance in shipbuilding, featuring over 80 per cent indigenous content under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The vessel is the first SVL-class ship to be based at the Southern Naval Command.

The name ‘Ikshak’, meaning ‘Guide’ in Sanskrit, aptly reflects its role in enhancing India’s maritime safety.

The vessel will undertake coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys of ports, harbours, and navigational channels—data that are vital for safe navigation and maritime operations.

Fitted with cutting-edge hydrographic and oceanographic systems, including a high-resolution multi-beam echo sounder, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and four Survey Motor Boats (SMBs), Ikshak also features a helicopter deck for extended operational capability.

The commissioning of Ikshak marks a significant step in the Navy’s effort to expand its survey and charting infrastructure, reinforcing India’s maritime domain awareness and showcasing its growing indigenous shipbuilding excellence.

Also Read: US, Russia To Join Indian Navy’s Mega Maritime Events In 2026; China, Pakistan, Turkey Not Invited: Report