Indian Navy to Commission Survey Ship ‘Ikshak’

The Indian Navy will commission Ikshak, its third Survey Vessel (Large) and the first to be based at the Southern Naval Command, at Naval Base Kochi on November 6.

Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata, Ikshak stands as a shining example of India’s growing self-reliance in shipbuilding. The vessel embodies over 80% indigenous content, reflecting the success of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and collaborative synergy between GRSE and Indian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

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 hydrographic and oceanographic equipment, including a high-resolution multi-beam echo sounder, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and four Survey Motor Boats (SMBs). The ship is also fitted with a helicopter deck, extending its operational reach and enabling multi-domain missions.