INS Ikshak Commissioned: Strengthening India’s Maritime Power with Indigenous Innovation
Introduction
In a major boost to India’s maritime self-reliance, the Indian Navy has commissioned INS Ikshak, the third vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) series. The ship was inducted at Naval Base Kochi under the Southern Naval Command, marking another step toward the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Built jointly by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Mumbai, the vessel carries 80 percent indigenous content, making it a true example of India’s technological capability in defense manufacturing.
With advanced hydrographic equipment and Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) features, INS Ikshak will support both strategic naval operations and civilian rescue missions, enhancing India’s presence across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
About INS Ikshak: India’s Advanced Survey Vessel
INS Ikshak belongs to the Survey Vessel (Large) class that includes INS Sandhayak, INS Nirdeshak, and INS Sanshodhak. These ships are critical for hydrographic surveys, seabed mapping, and nautical chart preparation, ensuring safe navigation for both commercial and naval fleets.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Displacement | ~3,400 tonnes |
| Length | ~110 meters |
| Speed | Up to 18 knots |
| Crew | 10 officers + 90 sailors |
| Equipment | Multibeam echo sounders, Side-scan sonars, DGPS, Autonomous Survey Boats |
| Role | Hydrographic Surveys + HADR Support |
These features allow the ship to collect high-accuracy oceanographic data while being ready for disaster relief operations when required.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Action
INS Ikshak is a shining example of Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat success. More than 80 percent of its components were sourced from Indian vendors, including systems for navigation, communication, and propulsion.
- ⚓ GRSE led the design and assembly at its state-of-the-art yard in Kolkata.
- ⚙️ L&T’s Kattupalli shipyard provided modular construction, improving delivery speed and quality.
- 🧭 Indigenous manufacturers supplied sonar systems, data processors, and onboard automation modules.
This collaboration strengthens India’s defense ecosystem, reduces import dependency, and creates skilled jobs within the maritime sector.
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Strategic Importance of Survey Vessels
Survey Vessels are not merely support ships—they are strategic assets. The data collected by ships like INS Ikshak helps in:
- Updating nautical charts for safe navigation
- Identifying underwater geological features and hazards
- Supporting submarine and missile operations
- Conducting environmental monitoring and maritime research
Their contribution directly impacts India’s blue-economy growth and coastal security.
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Dual Role: Survey and Humanitarian Assistance
One of the highlights of INS Ikshak is its dual-purpose design. In addition to conducting technical surveys, it can serve as a floating hospital during natural disasters.
During crises such as cyclones, tsunamis, or earthquakes, the vessel can:
- Provide medical aid through onboard facilities
- Serve as a command center for disaster relief
- Support evacuation and rescue operations
This aligns with the Navy’s broader mission of being a force for good across the Indian Ocean Region.
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Technological Advancements Onboard
INS Ikshak integrates modern systems that enhance both efficiency and safety:
- Integrated Bridge System (IBS): Combines navigation and control systems.
- Dynamic Positioning System (DPS): Maintains ship stability during surveys.
- Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS): Monitors machinery performance.
- Secure Communication Suites: Ensures real-time data transmission.
These features make the ship not only state-of-the-art but also future-ready for the digital transformation of the Navy.
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Commissioning Ceremony at Kochi
The commissioning ceremony at Naval Base Kochi was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, GRSE, and L&T. The Navy leadership highlighted that INS Ikshak symbolizes India’s engineering capability, self-reliance, and strategic vision.
The event also reaffirmed the Navy’s plan to expand its survey fleet, with the fourth vessel—INS Sanshodhak—expected soon, further enhancing India’s maritime domain awareness.
Contribution to India’s Blue Economy
Survey Vessels like INS Ikshak contribute directly to India’s Blue Economy Mission, supporting:
- Marine resource exploration
- Sustainable fisheries development
- Coastal zone management
- Environmental impact studies
By providing high-resolution data, the vessel enables scientific institutions and commercial shipping operators to plan operations safely and sustainably.
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Future Outlook
The Survey Vessel (Large) series represents a new generation of smart, multi-role ships. As all four vessels become fully operational, India will achieve:
- Complete hydrographic coverage of its EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone)
- Enhanced maritime data sovereignty
- Greater support for defense and commercial navigation
INS Ikshak is not just a ship—it’s a symbol of India’s transformation into a maritime power built on innovation and indigenization.
Conclusion
The commissioning of INS Ikshak is a proud milestone for India’s naval engineering prowess and defense self-reliance. With its modern survey systems, humanitarian role, and indigenous build, the ship underscores India’s commitment to maritime excellence.
As India expands its presence in the Indian Ocean Region, vessels like INS Ikshak will ensure strategic security, economic prosperity, and sustainable growth on the global stage. @motormitra
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