INS Ikshak is India’s third indigenous Survey Vessel Large, scheduled for commissioning on 6 November 2025 at Naval Base Kochi.
Built by GRSE with over 80% indigenous content, it is designed for hydrographic surveys, oceanographic research, and multi-role operations including disaster relief, search & rescue, and strategic maritime mapping.
This article explores its design, technical specifications, advanced capabilities, operational roles, and strategic significance, providing a complete understanding of how INS Ikshak strengthens India’s maritime domain awareness and naval self-reliance.
The Birth of INS Ikshak: From Keel to Commissioning
The story of INS Ikshak began when the Ministry of Defence awarded a contract to Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, in 2018.
The objective was to build four Survey Vessels Large to replace aging Sandhayak-class survey ships. These vessels are designed to meet modern hydrographic requirements, including coastal mapping, oceanographic surveys, and strategic maritime intelligence.
Key Milestones:
- Keel Laid: August 6, 2021
- Launch: November 26, 2022, at Kattupalli, Chennai
- Delivery: August 14, 2025
- Commissioning: Scheduled November 6, 2025
The ship features over 80% indigenous content, including a hull made from DMR 249-A steel by SAIL. This achievement is a testament to India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and growing shipbuilding self-reliance.
The construction process involved advanced engineering, precision shipbuilding, and state-of-the-art technology, making INS Ikshak a flagship for indigenous naval innovation.
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Design and Specifications: Modern Hydrographic Survey Excellence
INS Ikshak is a large, multi-role hydrographic survey vessel. It combines modern design with indigenous engineering to deliver highly precise maritime data.
Specifications at a glance:
- Length: ~110 meters
- Beam: ~16 meters
- Displacement: ~3,400 tons
- Crew: ~231 personnel, including women officers’ accommodation
- Maximum Speed: ~18 knots
- Cruising Speed: 14–16 knots
- Range: ~6,500 nautical miles
- Hull Material: Indigenous DMR 249-A steel
- Propulsion: Twin diesel engines with bow and stern thrusters
- Deck Features: Helicopter deck, hangar, four survey motorboats, ROV, and AUV facilities
The helicopter deck allows for aerial reconnaissance and deployment of small drones. The ROVs and AUVs enable precise underwater mapping, while the survey motorboats support shallow-water operations.
This combination of technical features ensures that INS Ikshak can operate in diverse maritime conditions.
It can conduct long-range surveys while also navigating shallow coastal areas, making it a versatile asset for India’s naval intelligence.
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Comparison Table: INS Sandhayak Class vs INS Ikshak
| Feature | Sandhayak Class | Ikshak |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Survey Ship | Survey Vessel Large |
| Displacement | ~2,300 tons | ~3,400 tons |
| Crew | ~180 | ~231 |
| Speed | 16 knots | 18 knots |
| Hull | Steel | DMR 249-A (80% indigenous) |
| Deck | Helicopter deck | Helicopter + hangar, 4 survey boats, ROV/AUV |
| Roles | Surveys | Surveys, oceanography, disaster relief, SAR |
Capabilities and Roles: Beyond a Survey Vessel
While its primary role is hydrographic surveying, INS Ikshak is a multi-role platform with significant operational flexibility.
Core Roles Include:
- Hydrographic Surveys: Mapping coastal regions, ports, navigational channels, and India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
- Oceanographic Research: Gathering geophysical, meteorological, and oceanographic data for naval operations and scientific purposes.
- Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR): Can serve as a hospital ship in emergencies.
- Search and Rescue (SAR): Equipped to respond swiftly during maritime accidents.
- Technological Edge: Equipped with Digital Side Scan Sonar, Multi-beam Echo Sounders, AUVs, and ROVs for detailed data collection.
The dedicated accommodation for women officers reflects a progressive and inclusive approach, strengthening operational efficiency.
INS Ikshak demonstrates how survey vessels are not only support platforms but strategic enablers for India’s maritime security.
Strategic Significance: Enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness
INS Ikshak is more than a survey ship; it is a strategic asset.
Hydrographic data collected by the ship enhances safe navigation, ensures port security, and supports naval operations.
In the Indian Ocean Region, precise mapping of coastal waters and EEZ gives India a tactical advantage, especially in contested maritime zones.
The ship’s multi-role capabilities allow the Indian Navy to respond to natural disasters, humanitarian crises, and emergencies.
By enabling data-driven decision-making, INS Ikshak strengthens India’s position as a responsible maritime power, capable of projecting soft power while maintaining defence readiness.
Indigenous Build and Economic Impact
INS Ikshak is a shining example of the Make in India initiative.
Domestic shipyards like GRSE and subcontractors like L&T have contributed to the construction.
Over 80% of the ship is indigenous, which reduces reliance on foreign suppliers.
This ensures that maintenance, upgrades, and operational readiness can be handled entirely within India.
For the Indian Navy, this signifies a shift toward a self-reliant, sustainable fleet, while also boosting India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Why INS Ikshak Matters to Defence Enthusiasts
For defence enthusiasts, INS Ikshak represents technology, strategy, and national pride.
Unlike traditional warships, survey vessels operate quietly, yet their contributions are foundational for naval operations.
- Mapping ports and coastal waters ensures tactical advantages.
- Oceanographic data aids submarine operations and fleet deployment.
- Multi-role functions show operational flexibility and modern naval adaptability.
Watching India achieve indigenous capability while maintaining global operational standards is inspiring.
Conclusion: INS Ikshak – A Symbol of India’s Naval Self-Reliance
INS Ikshak marks a milestone in India’s naval modernisation.
It combines indigenous engineering, advanced hydrographic technology, and multi-role versatility.
Its commissioning will strengthen maritime domain awareness, reinforce naval operational readiness, and demonstrate India’s self-reliance in defence technology.
For defence enthusiasts, INS Ikshak is not just a ship; it is a symbol of India’s maritime ambition and innovation.
FAQ
Q1: What is INS Ikshak?
A1: INS Ikshak is India’s third indigenous Survey Vessel Large, used for hydrographic surveys, oceanographic research, and multi-role operations, including disaster relief.
Q2: When will INS Ikshak be commissioned?
A2: The ship is scheduled for 6 November 2025 at Naval Base Kochi.
Q3: Who built INS Ikshak?
A3: Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, with over 80% indigenous content.
Q4: What are the key capabilities of INS Ikshak?
A4: Hydrographic surveys, oceanographic research, disaster relief, search and rescue, with advanced sonar, AUV, and ROV systems.
Q5: Why is INS Ikshak important for India?
A5: Enhances maritime domain awareness, ensures navigational safety, supports humanitarian missions, and represents India’s self-reliance in naval shipbuilding.