INS Ikshak: India gets a new guide in the sea, 4 things about 80% indigenous vessel

The Indian Navy will commission INS Ikshak, the third vessel of the Survey Vessel (SVL) class and the first to be based at the Southern Naval Command, in Kochi, on Thursday.

The commissioning marks a big step in the Navy’s strategic plan to modernise its survey infrastructure and secure India’s vast maritime frontiers.

Here are xx things to know about the survey vessel:

• Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, the vessel features 80 per cent indigenous content, reflecting India’s push for self-reliance.

• 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.

• Ikshak is equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic and oceanographic equipment, including a high-resolution multi-beam echo sounder, an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and four Survey Motor Boats (SMBs). The vessel is expected to bring versatility and capability to the Navy’s hydrographic fleet.

• The commissioning of Ikshak marks a significant milestone in the Indian Navy’s ongoing efforts to improve 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.